-2-
260
(ii)
(iii)
"The following is from Hongkong to Shanghai:-
Have telegraphed to London very fully.
Local Government will require not only Huchao but specific authorisation of British Government conveyed through Colonial Office for all arms imported.
Local Government averse Hongkong becoming arms clearing house and formula as above applied to discourage.
More may follow.
Arms and all other storage jammed for this reason we cannot accept any liability as receiving Agents. Definitely we cannot act as forwarding Agents but we can deliver Hongkong.
The following is from Hongkong to London: -
Apprehension exists here Japan may insist right to search when heavy shipments anticipated flow in or may be driven to attack Railway.
Consider we should hesitate becoming too deeply involved especially until sure Great Britain will not impose embargo arms.
What is your opinion? Can you obtain
definition of policy Foreign Office, Colonial Office?"
I should like to have the honour of calling on you early next week and discussing the matter after you have had an opportunity of considering it. Naturally Messrs. Jardine Matheson & Co. Ltd., would like to do the business if it is feasible for them to do so.
I am addressing a similar letter to the Under-
Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
The Under-Secretary of State,
Colonial Office,
S.W.1.
Been
Dyrefolland
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