justified on the merits of the case) disputes as to the
functions of the Japanese Inspecting Officers would be
more likely to arise in particular cases, and the definite
nature of the arrangements, to which 3ir Robert Craigie
attaches so much importance, would be impaired.
I am to add that in view of the considerable number
of instances which have been reported where the Japanese
in boarding British vessels have not carried out the
conditions on which such boarding is permitted, it seems
very desirable that the suggestion contained in the
penultimate paragraph of the Board's letter of 5th October
(as to securing that the conditions laid down by His
Majesty's Government respecting the boarding of British
ships are communicated to the Japanese naval authorities)
is carried into effect at the earliest possible date.
In this connection, the Board desire to support the
suggestion put forward in the penultimate paragraph of the
/Admiralty
95