19
that in this particular case there are no
contracts at all and if this is the case, it
is not necessary, in my opinion,to pursue
the point raised in 1925 (see His Majesty's
Consul General at Canton's despatch No. 39
of June 11, 1925, a copy of which was enclosed
in Mr. Palairet's despatch No. 441 of June 27,
1925) as to whether recoverable advances
amounted to a form of indentured labour.
5.
If this is so, the question resolves
itself into whether there is any substance in
the Chinese Government's allegations as to the
hardships suffered by prospective emigrants.
On this point I transmit to you herewith, for
your information, a copy or a letter, with
enclosures, which I have received from the
Colonial Office. You will observe that the
Governor of Hongkong is being asked whether he
considers that the powers of his Government in
this regard could usefully be strengthened in
any way.
6.
I shall be glad if you will communicate
the substance of this despatch to His Majesty's
Onsul
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$