2
We think that the imposition of the tax on import is a breach of the Concession. 2. We think that the Concession entitles the holders to import arms free of duty, making the stipulated payment, but subject to any reasonable regulations or restrictions in the interest of the public safety.
3. We think it does constitute a breach of Article VII, for the reason above given. 4. We think that diplomatic representations may properly be made in respect of the tax, and of any abuse in practice of the system of certificates.
The Right Honourable J. Chamberlain, M.P.,
&c.,
dc..
&e.
(
We have, &c.,
RICHARD E. WEBSTER. ROBERT B. FINLAY,
27310.
SIR,
No. 230.
(SOUTH AFRICA.)
LAW OFFICERS to COLONIAL
OFFICE.
Royal Courts of Justice, 9th October, 1899.
WE were honoured with your commands signified in Mr. Lucas's letter of the 26th ultimo, stating that he was directed by you to transmit to us a copy of a letter from the British South Africa Company on the subject of the submission to the Legislative Council of the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure of Southern Rhodesia, together with a copy of the Southern Rhodesia Order in Councit referred to (Sections 41 to 44 inclusive).
That Mr. Lucas was to request that you might be favoured with our opinion whether the circulation of the Estimates to the Members of the Legislative Council before the end of December (in anticipation of a meeting of the Council before the end of March following, for passing the Ordinance providing for the service of the financial year commencing 1st April), would be a sufficient compliance with the provisions of Section 41 of the Order in Council.
We have taken the matter into our consideration, and in obedience to your commands, have the honour to
Report,
THAT this question must, in our opinion, be answered in the negative. Circulation of the Estimates to the individual members is not submitting them to
the Council.
The Right Honourable J. Chamberlain, M.P.,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
853—25—10 99 WT 439 D&S
We have, &c.,
RICHARD E. WEBSTER. ROBERT B. FINLAY.
PUBLIC RECORD
OFFICE
Reference :-
PIC.O.885
14 PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON
ALLY WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE BE REPRODUCED PHOTOGRAPHIC- COPYRIGHT PHOTOGRAPH-NOT TO