L
1
D.0968017/5494
It is requested that in any further communication on this subject the above letters and numbers may be quoted, and the Latter addressed as follows:-
The Secretary of the Admiralty,
"Whitehall,
"London.”
"
D. Dept."
L.P.-No. 9.
CONFIDENTIAL.
17772
Regd 5. Apr.
Admiralty, S. W.,1
17
3rd April 191.
sir.
With reference to Admiralty Letter dated the 14th
December last, D.08915/16, relative to the question of employing in H.H.Ṇaval Yards abroad Chinese artisans
drawn from HongKong Dockyard, I am commanded by My Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty to acquaint you for the
information of the secretary of state that They have now
received reports on this matter from the Superintendents
of the several Establishments concerned.
2. I am to state that, with the single exception of
Bombay, the employment of Chinese mechanics in these Naval
Establishments is not recommended by the Superintendents,
it being considered that the advantages likely to accrue
therefrom would not be commensurate with the difficulties
which would be experienced on account of political prejudice
difference of language, provision of suitable accommodation
for the Asiatics, and the effect upon the Fative and Europ-
ean workmen.
3. The Director of the Royal Indian Marine, however,
concurs in the employment of these Chinese workman at Bombay
Dockyard, and states that arrangements have recently been
made with the Commodore, HongKong for the engagement and dia-
patch of a small number of capable Chinese Engine Fitters for work at this Establishment. My Lords are therefore taking
up the matter with the India Office with a view to ascertain-
ing whether a fuller use can be made of the principle of
obtaining Chinese skilled workmen for service at Bombay.
4. I am to add that, as an altermtive to the employ-
ment of Chinese at Gibraltar, the Senior Naval Officer at