Any further communication on this ect should be addressed to-
The Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
St. James's Park,
London, S.W..
the following number quoted.
ac.38499/1917.
Sir,
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING,
/6*July 1917.
36633
17 JUL 17
218
I am directed by the Shipping Controller to acknowledge
the receipt of your letter No.33026/1917 of the 9th July with regard to the shipping requirements of the port of Hong Kong.
I am to point out that steamers are only requisitioned and diverted from the Far East in order that they may bring Munitions and commodities essential to maintain this country for the purposes of the war. In these circumstances the Controller would prefer to identify himself with the views of the Commodore rather than with the views of the Committee appointed by the Governor.
In deciding however what ships are to be taken from the trade routes affecting the Colony, the Controller has regard so far as possible for the Colony's interests, and the considerations mentioned by the Governor have been noted and will be borne in mind.
The Controller regrets however, that it is impossible for him to give the undertaking suggested by the Committee appointed
by the Governor.
Jnder Secretary of State,
Colonial Office,
S.W.1.
I am,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Jo
Antadero