[ 8 ]
was, until quite recently, on equal terms. Mr. WILCOX:-I am in order I should like to propose the following resolution :-" That copies of the minutes of this meeting be forwarded to the Colonial Secretary with the request that His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government will be pleased to transmit the same to the Right Hon. the Secretary of State for the Colonies, with such representations thereon as he may think fit to offer." I think that this is advisable in order to give due effect to the remarks that have been made with regard to subsidies.
Within the past few years, however, the shadow of coming events was visible in the form of a small subsidy given to certain Chinese craft flying the French flag. Now we have steamers on the river running hence built in France, and receiving a subsidy which practically ensures them against loss. We do not ask for any advantages for this Company's steamers; we should not get a subsidy if we did ask for it; but it seems to me that we have a right to stipulate that competitors who come here to fight for a share of our loaf should, at least, be asked to strip off their coat of mail before being allowed to enter the lists (applause). With those few remarks I beg to second the adoption of the report and accounts.
The motion was agreed to.
On the motion of Dr. NOBLE, seconded by Mr. MICHAEL, the appointment of Mr. C. A. Tomes to the directorate was confirmed.
The CHAIRMAN proposed and Mr. VEITCH seconded the re-election of Messrs. A. O'D. Gourdin and W. H. Potts as auditors.
The motion was agreed to.
Mr. MICHAEL said he had much pleasure in seconding this resolution. After the remarks of the Chairman and Mr. Wilcox he did not think it was necessary to say anything further, but he was sure they would all agree that steps should be taken to bring this question to the attention of the authorities.
The CHAIRMAN then put the resolution to the meeting, and it was carried unanimously.
The CHAIRMAN:-The proper steps will be taken, gentlemen, to carry the resolution into effect. I have only to add that the dividend warrants will be ready on Monday.
Chairman
234