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In view, however, of the favourable attitude of the Hong-Kong government, Colonel Colville felt justified in according the project a measure of support and, as stated in paragraph 4 of the Governor's letter already referred to, His Majesty's Trade Commissioner at Hong- Kong was informed that while he would not be permitted to accept an invitation to be Chairman of the Advisory Committee, he nevertheless might give the project all proper support without in any way making himself responsible for the Exhibition.
With regard to the attitude of His Majesty's Diplomatic and Consular Officers in China, Colonel Colville represented to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs that in his opinion there was no objection either to His Majesty's Minister's becoming a Patron of the Fair or to any member of the Commercial Diplomatic or Consular Service joining the Grand Council of Patronage. The only stipulation Colonel Colville felt bound to make was that the position of these Officers should be described as "Honorary" in any literature that might be issued in connection with the Fair, and, further, that no formal or financial responsibility should be incurred.
The Secretary of State found himself in accord with these views, and informed His Majesty's Minister at Peking accordingly by telegram on 3rd April, 1935.
Finally I am to refer to the Questions and Answers recently given in Parliament on this subject, copies of which are enclosed (document E); and I am to add that up to the present time no representations have been received from industrial interests in this country.
Copies of this letter, but not of its enclosures, have been sent to the Foreign Office and the Dominions Office.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Rece
for the Comptroller-General.