CO129-384 - Public Offices - 1911 — Page 199

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the Wai-wu Pu would probably be met with a request that

that Government should take steps to prevent exports

of uncertified opium exceeding the requirements of the

markets out of China. He added that in view of the

impossibility of discontinuing the sales in India with-

out three months notice, he could only suggest that, to

meet the situation, Hongkong should be closed to all

uncertified opium except so much as might be required

by the opium farmer.

I am to request that, if Mr. Harcourt has no

objection, Sir F. Lugard may be instructed by telegraph

to state his opinion on Sir J. Jordan's suggestion.

I am to add that the Chinese Customs authorities

have expressed the view, which is shared by Sir J.

Jordan, that it will be extremely difficult, if not

impossible, to prevent the smuggling of opium into

southern China.

I am,

Sir,

Your most obedient,

humble Servant,

Wangen