For Luces
See above minutes.
Mr Antoine
Sir Jr. Hopwood
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27.
The question is whether to repeat the rule laid down in the Circular of 19th Sept - that all orders for Stamps outside a colony shall pass through the Colonial Secretary's Office. I incline to send a circular saying that exception has been taken to the rule as causing extra trouble without additional Safeguard, and letting the governments decide whether to continue the rule or not, at their discretion.
I would not make a rule forbidding government offices to buy stamps.
I agree that in the larger Colonies are not so much concerned.
But it is different in the smaller colonies, where the stamps are more sought after, and the Postmasters are less able to check improper dealings.
The dealers have been entering into arrangements with Postmasters to buy stamps at a discount, and the risk of improper dealing is greatest; and therefore in those Colonies I would give the Governors discretion to decide whether it would be better for them to continue the rule.
Wht. July 13.
We cannot prohibit Postmasters from selling fringe stamps.– I am disposed to leave the matter as it is.
Abrogating the rule specially in Hong Kong.
A case has been made out for abrogation, where there is a lingering dispute about stamps.
I would stick to the Circular.
I have had the Observer's minute (27434) with its arguments. I would therefore propose to adhere to the procedure laid down in the Circular.
E 19.7.