Like
Any further communication should be addressed to :-
THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY, (HARBOUR DEPARTMENT).
And the following letter and number should be quoted:-
H. 1947.
J
BOAR
Telegraphic Address.
BOARD TRADE, HARBOUR, LONDON,
C.O.
10584
Rec
BOARD OF TRADE,
TEGE MAR 16
(HARBOUR DEPARTMENT),
133
7, WHITEHALL GARDENS,
LONDON, S.W.
20th March, 1916.
Sir,
With reference to your letter of the 9th March (No.9833/16) transmitting a copy of a telegram from the Governor of Hong Kong respecting a proposal to increase the light dues in that Colony; I am directed by the Board
of Trade to state that they do not understand what is'
meant by the phrase "British and foreign ocean steamers
"not subject to Imperial War Tax", but that if the pro-
posal should be to charge increased dues on ships owned
by Companies not paying taxes in the United Kingdom the
matter would have to be considered in the light of the
Commercial Treaties extending to Hong Kong or to which Hong Kong has acceded.
The Board would suggest that Fr Secretary Bonar
Law should ask the Governor for an explanation of the
proposal.
The Under Secretary of State,
Colonial Office.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Event - J. Versprite