FOREIGN OFFICE,
December 30th, 1904.
Sir:-
With reference to your despatch No.323 of September 3rd last, I transmit to you the accompanying copies of correspondence which has passed with the Colonial Office and the Board of Trade relative to the right of the Swatow Chaoyang Kityang Steam Launch Company, Limited, to have their launches registered in the British Consulate at Swatow.
In 1895 the Law Officers of the Crown expressed the opinion that the principle ought not to be recognized that foreigners, by registering themselves in England as a Limited Company, are entitled to claim from His Majesty's Government the protection afforded to British subjects in foreign countries.
It was thought that the question must be examined on its merits, and enquiry made as to the nature of the business which was in fact being carried on by the Company.
E. Satow, G.C.M.G.,
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