(Copy) M. 12990.
The Secretary,
China & Japan
sir.
187
BOARD OF TRADE,
(Marine Department),
7, Whitehall Gardens,
London, S.W.
16th May,
1916.
Homeward Freight Conference,
8. Billiter Square,
E.C.
1
I am directed by the Board of Trade to state that they have received through the Colonial Office a copy of corres- pondence which has passed between the Governor of Hong Kong and the Chairman of the Conference at that port, relative to the freight rate on articles of luxury shipped to Europe.
The correspondence includes a copy of your telegram of 17th February and an extract from your letter of 18th February whion were communicated to the Hong Kong Government.
As you have no doubt been informed by the Chairman at Hong Kong the Government of Hong Kong had received no author- ity to move in this matter and they have accordingly referred the correspondence to the Secretary of State, Colonial Office who has invited the views of the Board of Trade. The Board would be glad to be favoured with your observations as to the articles which should in the opinion of the Conference be subject to the increased rates and as to the prospect of obtaining the agreement of the Japanese Lines to similar action.
I am,
Sir, Your obedient Servent,
(Sgd.) 0. HIP WOO D.