2
If we once make a working agreement with China, as to the railway, without claiming equal rights with Russia and France, it appears to me that we are giving away our one asset for claiming this right. Later, should we desire to obtain this concession, China will probably assert this is not covered by the most-favoured-nation clause, and we will then only obtain this right by making some sacrifice in another direction.
With all due deference, therefore, I submit it is not desirable to further delay in claiming equal rights for our railway as those already held by France and Russia.
E. A. HEWETT.
[This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]
AFFAIRS OF CHINA.
CONFIDENTIAL.
[46502]
0
3147
[December 24.]
SECTION 1.
65 3 FEB 1!
No. 1.
Hong Kong, October 15, 1910,
The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation to Foreign Office.-(Received December 24.)
Dear Sir Francis,
31, Lombard Street, London, December 23, 1910. THE Stock Exchange Committee at their meeting to-day decided, after a long discussion, to refuse an official quotation for the 450,000l. Peking-Hankow 7 per cent. bonds until proof could be shown that the Imperial Chinese Government, and not merely a Government department, were responsible for the repayment of principal and interest.
Yours truly,
J. S. ADDIS.
[1810 aa-]
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