i
383
This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.] C. O.
AFFAIRS OF CHINA.
CONFIDENTIAL,
[42214]
No. 1.
5944
[December 3
REGE 18 FEE 09
SECTION
Sir J. Jardan to Sir Edward Grey.-(Received December 3.)
(No. 196.) (Telegraphic.) P.
Peking, December 3, 1908. THE formal ascension of the Throne by the Emperor has been immediately followed by the issue of an important Decree, in which the new Government announce their fixed intention to proceed with Constitutional reform. The Decrees of the late Emperor and Empress-Dowager are to be carried into effect not later than eight years after the present Emperor's accession to the Throne.
[2049 e--1]