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That a special native force from which guards might be supplied, should be raised and put under the control of the Naval or Military authorities in Hong Kong for training and for discipline, and that when this force has reached the necessary stage of efficiency, guards from it should take the place of the laval and Military guards at present being supplied. We consider it essential that the new force, if formed should be under Military or naval discipline and should have European officers and a strong establishment of British non-commissioned officers. In the interests of safe-guarding of life and of Imperial trade, we would respectfully urge that something on the se lines should be adopted and that a contribution towards the expense necessary for the upkeep of such a force should be made by the Imperial Government.
We would further urge that until some such force has reached. the requisite state of efficiency, the present system of supplying Naval or Military guards should be continued. We would at the same time suggest that in some such force as that proposed, opportunity might be found for the employment of some of the ex-service officers and men who are at present suffering from unemployment either in this country or abroad.
I am,
Sir.
Your obedient Servant,
Sgd.
Chairman.