64
British merchants in Shanghai foel that in existing
economic and political circumstances the longer the
conclusion of the new treaty could be delayed the
better, and this feeling is largely shared by our
Nanking Embassy. It should be seen in the course
of the next few months whether the presont Central
Government at Nanking can maintain themselves.
In the meantime, the reply to any enquiries on the
subject should be to the effect that inter-
departmental consultations are still proceeding and
that the completion of these has been delayed by the
absence of treaty experts on I.T.0. matters and other
engagements.
6. It is proposed to negotiate a separate
consular convention at a later date.
August, 1947.
151