10
collection of Chinese Customs and it does not seem
to me that the Japanese Government would have any
right to protest if the request were allowed.
(2) That an undesirable precedent will be
established. It is not altogether clear in what
precise way it will be undesirable, but I take it
that the Colonial Government would be unwilling to
see an office of the Chinese Government of this
nature established in Hong Kong territory.
durmy
Though
action an emergency need not be accepted
subsequently as a precedent it might no doubt be
difficult to get the office removed after hostilities
cease, but as conditions at that date are very much
a matter of speculation this seems to be a point that
need not be regarded too seriously at the moment.
On the whole therefore it seems to me that
it will be to the advantage of Hong Kong to permit this request, as showing a friendly attitude towards th
Provincial Govemment and that it would accord with
the League resolution. for aid to be given to China
wherever possible.
? Copy to F.0., Treasury and B. of T.
saying that it appears to the S. of S. that this is
a matter in which the Colonial Government might
suitably meet the wishes of the Provincial Government
and that subject to their concurrence he accordingly
proposes to instruct the Governor to accede to their
request. And ask for an early reply. And copy UM
the letter and telegram to the Services Department.
L.F.F.
7. Roger
17. viii, 38.
to
It is also the policy of HMG
holing
facilitate to work of the
Chance Customs the the Chiness
Page 10Page 11