2
I
59
Municipal Council of the International Settlement and the
Chinese Government, and the same remark applies as between
private owners and the Chinese Government in other ports.
Having regard to this aspect of the matter I am
directed to suggest for your consideration that, if the
Hongkong Government's purpose is to embark upon some specific
undertaking, its object might be served equally well by a
Bill limited in scope to the particular scheme in view; and,
on the other hand, that if they have no definite project under
consideration the potential administrative value of the pro-
posed measure may well be outweighed by the disadvantage at
which British undertakings in Shanghai are likely to be placed
vis-a-vis the Chinese Government, a disadvantage which would
be felt also in any negotiations on their behalf.
I am to add that the Hongkong Chamber is definitely
opposed to the proposed Bill and has communicated its views
to the Hongkong Government.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Elv. Gull
Secretary.
Page 50Page 51