8
See clause 7(3)
(2)
(3)
Nos. 18 and 20 are for information only,
and may be put by.
I have discussed No.17 with Mr. Bowyer.
While the F.0. are correct in stating that
according to the International Telecommunication
Convention, Government telegrams include those
originating with the Secretary General of the
League of Nations, they appear to be confusing the
issue in stating that this would accordingly entitle
League telegrams to "government rates". The
International Convention only states that priority
must be given to Government telegrams, and the rates
to be paid are a matter to be settled between the
various companies and governments concerned. In
the case of Hong Kong the agreement with Cable and
Wireless Limited prescribes for privileged rates to
be given only to telegrams sent on behalf of the
Colonial Government* H. M. G.
In our letter to Cable and Wireless we
asked them to accord to the telegrams from the
League of Nations Committee in Hong Kong "the same
treatment as is granted to telegrams sent on behalf
of the Government of Hong Kong", and though the
Company's reply is rather vaguely worded in stating
that the privilege of government rates will be
accorded to these telegrams, I think it is clear
that they mean they will be granted the reduced rates
accorded to Hong Kong telegrams. It is no doubt the
somewhat vague wording of this letter which has led
the F.0. astray, and I doubt if there is any reason
to audress either the Company or the Colonial
Government on the matter.
conson.
I submit draft reply to the F.0. for
P. Rogers
22. iv.38.