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COPY.
Sir,
HONGKONG, 29th May, 1919.
565
Hon
With reference to Notification No. 236 published
in the Hongkong Government Gazette of 23rd, inst, relating
to the nationality of persons having charge of British Merchant ships, we beg to enquire if you are able to favour us with a ruling in the case of Mr. C. W. Falk, one of our
Chief Officers, who has been in our service for the past
10 years.
Mr. Falk has addressed us on the subject and we
enclose a copy of his letter of 23rd. inst. herewith. Although he states he was born in Sweden of Swedish parents, he is unable to produce the necessary documents to in any way establish his nationality, and we understand the Swedish
Authorities do not recognize him as a Swedish subject.
Mr. Falk was on active service with the British Army in South Africa during the Boer War and whilst in our service has proved an excellent officer. He is now due for promotion to Master, and as Regulation 37 D. referred to in the Notification states that no person other than a natural born British subject shall act in the capacity of a Master of a British Merchant ip, "unless specially authorised for the time being by the Admiralty or the Board of Trade". we shall be glad to know whether such authority can be given by H. M. local Government on behalf of the Admiralty or Board of Trade for Mr. Falk to act as Master in our Company, and if not, what steps must be taken to obtain such permission.
The Colonial Secretary,
HONGKONG.
Awaiting the favour of your reply,
Te are, &c.,
(Sd.) JARDINE, MATHESON & CO. LD. General Managers. Indo-China Steam Nav 30.Id.