COFY.
STAJVANNIKUS 11 SMALLMORE SEGURA
479
C.O.
15341
TELEGRAM Bad 4 MAY 04
From the Officer Administering the Government, Hongkong, to the Secretary of State, London, dated 28th March, 1904.
Referring to your telegram Labour Convention Ferry, as I understand contemplates getting large numbers of coolies from South China through Hongkong, North China through Weihaiwei. I consider that exorbitant fee $4 may cause Chinese Authorities to place difficulties in the way of such scheme in order to obtain fees at Chinese Forts. It will be more satisfactory to all concerned to have emigration conducted through British Colonies and I urge stipulation that no obstacle to this shall be raised. Article No. 6 should be amended so as to except Hongkong. It is quite possible that indentured coolies may be required here later on and there is strongest possible objection to appointment of Chinese Consul here. Weihaiwei is in same condition. I have no further remarks.