CO129-395 - Public Offices - 1912 — Page 115

2.0.129/395 (2-7/1912) | tonykorz

Enclosure 2 in Sir C.MacDonald's No.89 of February 21st, 1912.

markto

and Secret.

sir,

114

Government House,

7934

Hong Kong.

RCCA

Reas 16 MAR 12.

10686

February 7th, 1912.

12 MAR 1912

Singve the honour to confirm my telegram of the 15th ultimo, a paraphrase of which is attached, with regard to the sale of arms and ammunition by Japanese to the Chinese Revolu- tionaries for shipment to Canton, and should be glad to know whether Your Excellency has received any information with res-

pect to the matter.

2. There is at present lying in Hongkong Harbour a Japan- eso steamer, the "Soshu Maru", which has applied for permits for the export of four cases of revolver ammunition consigned from the Military Government at Canton to the Military Govern-

ment at Fuchow.

3.

It appears to me contrary to the declarations of non- intervantion and neutrality recently made by H.M.Government that permits for the export of arms and ammunition and the hos- pitality of the port should be accorded to vessels carrying war material for the use of a Government or province at war with the Government of China, since the latter is still recognized by Great Britain and responsible for the observance of all Treaties made with China. I shall therefore be glad, if Your Excellency sees fit, if you will make representations in the proper quarter to prevent the passage through the waters of this Colony of Japanese ships carrying warlike material for the use

of either party.

4. A copy of this despatch is being sent to the Secretary

of State for the Colonies.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

(signed) F.D.Lugard.

Governor, etc.,

is Excellency

The Right Hon.

Sie C. Mh. Mac Donald

ets., etc., etc.,