CO129-396 - Public Offices - 1912 — Page 413

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[This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]

C.0.

OPIUM.

39493

[November 12.]

REC2

CONFIDENTIAL.

[48334]

No. 1.

Rrot 13 DEC 12 SECTION 2.

Papers communicated by Messrs. Sassoon and Co., November 12.

(1.)

Copy of Telegram received from Shanghai.

November 8, 1912. "OPIUM. Position becoming intolerable owing to weak attitude of British Government. Chinese officials all over China determined to harass and obstruct the trade; protest useless. They are further determined to class opium as poison, and severely punish all sellers aud smokers. Consequently business impossible. You must demand immediate protection from Government, as situation does not admit of least delay, otherwise insist their taking over all stocks, and finish with trade.'

(2.)

Copy of Telegram received from Hong Kong,

"WE have telegraphed to British Minister :-

November 11, 1932.

409

"Opium dealers report have received warning from Kwangtung Government that smoking must cease 31st December. Position becoming critical. Earnestly beg your Excellency press Chinese Government withdraw proclamation.''

(3.)

Copy of Telegram received from Bombay.

{

༢་ཀ

me

dia

Faw

November 9, 1912.

SHANGHAI wired in view of large bargain Chinese bave decided stop buying opium until settlement trouble.

[2715 m-

-2]

Med

Parda