- 2 -
220
I note with satisfaction that Sir William Peel's suggestion has been recommended to His Majesty's Ambassador at Washington for consideration by the United States authorities. In the
meantime the ruling of the Foreign Office has been noted for
guidance.
tis para 2 of (50)
4. I may add that recently there have come to notice
through Bills of Lading from New York to Canton in connection
with certain aeroplanes shipped by Mr. James W. Fisher on
behalf of the American Eastern Aviation Company and other
manufacturers. Certain of these machines were ordered by
the Air Force of the First Army Corps, Canton, but all were
at the time of passage through Hong Kong completely unarmed
and no question of the arms regulations of the Chinese
Government arose. It may however be desirable to enquire of
the United States authorities whether, in the case of arms,
Bills of Lading in this new form could be issued by Shipping
Companies without production of a licence authorizing exportation
to China.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
10. D. Southorh
Officer Administering the Government.