direct competition with your Company in the matter of
commercial traffic, and the
Government of Hong Kong
92
has shown for a long time a complete readiness to
subordinate its own special interests to the
considerations of general imperial policy in this matter.
It is felt, however, that it is impossible indefinitely
to resist the demand of the Colony that it shall be
allowed to undertake for itself the provision of urgently
required facilities if these are not forthcoming from
the Company, and it may be impossible much longer to
refuse the demand of the Colony to be allowed freedom of
action. A telegram is being addressed to the officer
Administering the Government of the Colony inviting him
to specify the minimum requirements of the Colony in
order that your Company may be afforded an opportunity
of submitting proposals.
clear that no definite undertaking can be given that the
Colonial Government will not be permitted to proceed
forthwith with the provision of such additional services
as are considered to be urgently required.
I am, however, to make it
I am, etc.,
(Signed)
J. A. CALDER.
3.