131
13.
exoluded,it ona also be reasonably held that no politionl
or factional bias would be shown in coming to the relief
of the Chinese Government or Governments, and therefore
of the Chinese people, in this manner.
17. If His Majesty's Government were prepared to accept
in principle either of the modifications of the recommen➡
dations of the Indemnity Commission suggested above, the
next step would be to examine the method of putting it into
effect. Two courses appear to be open.
Nither the pro-
posed amending bill would have to be so drafted as to make
direct provision for such a use of a partion of the
funds, or else, when the amending bill is passed on
the lines contemplated by the recommendɛtions of the
Commission, the Chinese authorities concerned might be par-
suaded themsèlves to propose the introduction of such a
scheme as a purpose of mutual benefit, and the consequent
establishment of an Anglo-Chinese Claims Commission to ex
mine and pass the claims and debts in question. It would
certainly to my mind savour of bad faith were His Majesty's
Government to propose to include such a measure among pur-
poses of mutual benefit. It is possible that the Chinese
*** Would