C.O.
10492
This Document as the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]
TREC
CHINA RAILWAYS.
>
CONFIDENTIAL.
[5523]
No. 1.
REGP 25 MAR 09
[February 9.]
SECTION 2.
682
Telegram from Peking to the British and Chinese Corporation, London,-(Communicated by Mr. Addis, February 9.)
February 9, 1909. HANKOW-CANTON Railway meeting yesterday. Are informed Chang Chih Tung definitely decided against construction contract. This is partly due to influence of the Board of Communications, anxious to retain opportunities, partly Japanese insisting (upon) retain advantages the British Consul at Hankow Agreement.
Under the circumstances we must adopt other alternative. Chinese are disposed to come to an agreement satisfactory (to) powers Engineer-in-chief approved by the British and Chinese Corporation. Referring to your telegram of the 5th, they agree to agency. It will not be possible to secure control of funds under accountant similar to Canton-Kowloon Railway, because M. Cordes prepared to offer Tien-tsin-Chinkiang Railway terms and conditions.
I am of opinion if you leave it in my hands can arrange to your satisfaction financially, but in order to better secure control of loan funds it would be necessary for the British Government adopt support definite action.
Chinese will send draft of Agreement on Thursday. It is very important if it is satisfactory to be able to quote price without delay because of situation uncertain.
[2150 i-2]
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.