26
created by the experimental reduction in
price. It is still permissible for you
to purchase Persian opium to supplement
the decrease supplies of Indian opium
available to your Government so far
as these are not sufficient to meet the
demand for Government opium at present
prices.
3
I am fully aware of the difficulties
of the position in Hong Kong, and realise
that the present position cannot be allowed
to continue unaltered indefinitely.
In view, however, of the possibility of
a League Commission visiting the Far East
in the near future, it would appear
undesirable to take any action until that
Commission, if it should be sent, has reported.
4. Purchase of opium from China, suggested
in paragraph 27 of your despatch would be open
to so many objections that I do not think
that the proposal could use fully be discussed
at present.
I have &c.,
(Signed) L. S. AMERY