:
[This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]
OPIUM.
CONFIDENTIAL.
REC REGE 8 MAR 12
[February 20.]
SECTION 1.
106
(7379]
No. 1.
Sir,
Colonial Office to Foreign Office.--(February 20.)
Downing Street, February 19, 1912.
I AM directed by the Secretary of State for the Colonies to transmit to you, for the information of Secretary Sir Edward Grey, with reference to letter to the Colonial Office of the 13th February, a copy of a telegram to Governor of the Straits Settlements on the subject of opium purchased in Singapore for shipment to Macao.
I am, &c.
JOHN ANDERSON,
Enclosure in No. J.
Mr. Harcourt to the Governor of the Straits Settlements.
(Telegraphic.) P.
Downing Street, February 17, 1912. REFERRING to your despatch of the 20th September, I learn that quantity of uncertificated opium is being bought in Singapore and shipped to Macao far in excess of legitimate requirements of Macao. I can only assume that the extra quantity is intended to be smuggled into China or elsewhere. In the circumstances you should at once prohibit the export of opium to Macao except on production of a certificate from the Portuguese consul at Singapore that it is required for the use of the Government opium farmer. Foreign Office are informing Portuguese Government that this will be done.
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