It is said not to be possible to construct the larger ocean port for China, while unable to borrow money for such works internally, it may borrow from foreign sources. It is possible to avoid it, should, when the diplomatic pressure suffices.
Reference is made to the Canton Kowloon Railway Agreement, Article 15 of which relates to the construction of railway lines. It is stated that until something more substantial than newspaper reports is available, it hardly seems necessary to take emphatic action.
If Sir Jordan's despatch can be accepted in silence, for it amounts to saying that we have little right to object to the scheme, it is proposed to wait until something tangible presents itself.
I think he is merely passing a lead, not acting until something tangible presents itself, which will require our consideration.
In any further communication on this subject, please quote No. 2700.
Address: The Under-Secretary of State, Foreign Office, London.
RFCD 4188
Received 6 FEB 08
FOREIGN OFFICE, February 5, 1908.
Sir,
With reference to your letter 41486 of December 18th last, I am directed by Secretary Sir E. Grey to transmit to you, to be laid before the Secretary of State for the Colonies, a copy of a despatch from His Majesty's Minister at Peking on the subject of alleged projects for the construction of railway lines, the construction of which might be held to be at variance with Article 15 of the Canton Kowloon Railway Agreement.
Sir E. Grey proposes, unless the Earl of Elgin sees any objection, to express concurrence in Sir J. Jordan's view that it is best not to raise the question until it is forced upon His Majesty's Government in a practical form.
I am, Sir, Your most obedient, humble Servant, W. Langley
The Under Secretary of State, Colonial Office.