7.
Un the general question as to recognition by China of a stage in descent at which it will withdraw
its claim to regard Chinese born in HongKong as Chinese subjects, it seems to me that we had better await the result of the Chinese-Dutch negotiations.
But any rule that may be contemplated as regards
Anglo-Chinese should I think embrace Chinese born in the
Straits or elsewhere in His Majesty's Dominions.
I am not prepared to express any opinion as to the
status of Chinese born in the Federated Malay Statos. Theoretically they are (at least not British subjects: practically they are: China I am sure, would call
them Chinese subjects.
8. I think it is fairly clear that we should
avait the result of the Sino-Dutch negotiations before attempting to come to an agreement with China
on the general question.
I would therefore
? Reply that the Secretary of State concurs
in this proposal but that he does not think it advisable
to refuse protection to the natural born subjects of
immigrant parentage since the concession if made
during the negotiations might be of value, whereas
if the claim is abandoned of our om motion, the Chinese Government will not be grateful. For the same reason Mr Harcourt is inclined to think that the question of
Chinese registored in Siam had better not be touched at
present.
? Say that any settlement should embrace not
only Chinese born in HongKong but those born elsewhere in His Majesty's Dominions.
Add that the Secretary of State is informing
the Governor that Dr. Ho Kai and others should be en- couraged to divest themselves of Chinese nationality
under the Chinese Law.
? And so instruct Governor, HongKong, sending copy of correspondence, and copy correspondence also
to Straits Lf. confidential.
JR 4/5.2.
JR
(1380). Wt.20.024–26. 6000. 13/08. A.&E.W. (15,613).
18,912-27. 6000. 10/09.
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