579
Your Lordship will agree with me that it is very necessary
that an agreement should be arrived at as soon as possible
between the British and Chinese Governments as to the
national status of the Chinese who are natives of this
Colony and of the New Territories. I understand that the
Chinese Government itself is about to promulgate a law
on
the subject of nationality and I would ask that if this is
the case a reference may, if possible, be made to this
Government before any such legislation affecting the status
of Chinese who have hitherto enjoyed protection as British
Subjects, is recognised by His Majesty's Government.
I have the honour to be,
Ity Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient,
humble servant,
Mugarz
Governor, &c.