HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY'S CONSULATE-GENERAL,
SHANGHAI.
March 21st, 1908
C.C. 15417
2 MAY 08
Sir:-
As I had the honour to telegraph to you last night, at the Annual Meeting of Shanghai Ratepayers held yesterday, the following resolution was proposed by Mr. D. Landale, the Chairman of the retiring Council, and passed unanimously:-
"That the number of licensed opium houses be reduced by one quarter from July 1st, 1908, or from such other early date and in such manner as may appear advisable to the Council for 1908/9."
As a start, Mr. Landale, in moving the resolution, stated that the policy of the Council was one making for total suppression in the course of two years. It was proposed to close twenty-five per cent of the houses in July, and for the succeeding six months to watch with care the next move on the part of the Chinese, by which time too the effect of the preliminary measure would be seen.
Further reductions would be regulated...
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Jolm Jordan, K.C.M.G.,
His Majesty's Minister,
Peking.