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exports for 1915 must be announced early in October,
and it is essential simultaneously with that announcement
to publish the arrangements made with the Straits
Settlements and other customers, if any, enjoying special
terms.
In these circumstances Lord Crewe has informed
the Government of India by telegraph that he accepta
their view that the Government of Hong Kong should obtain
their supplies for 1915 under the ordinary auction
procedure, as before 1914, and that any further agreement
that may be arrived at for the supply of opium on special
terms cannot have effect until 1916; and I am to request
that the Secretary of State for the Colonies will be so
good as to inform the Government of Hong Kong by telegraph
to that effect.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
9. W. Holderness