CO129-404 - Acting Governor Claud Severn - 1913 [10-12] — Page 175

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C.O

171

40865

This shews gratifying signs of weakening in the

attitude of the Govt. of India.

9 to Sir H. May and 1.0. as proposed. I would

not tel. to S.S. for the moment. If the offer

has been made we shall hear from them in a few

days

and we shall no doubt hear from 1.0. short-

ly. Mark letter to 1.0. Pressing.

I think it wobe

Qu

Are 17.

proposed.

Drove their ruis

alonce

X1

1. 13

well

L

Wippable

It will be usefard

possible

a for ag

CU. 48.11.15

27.11.13

TELEGRAM:

The Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong

R26 NOV 13 to the Secretary of State for the Colonies. (Received Colonial Office 3.24.p.m. 26th November 1913)

By telegram Government of India agree to sell chests

of opium as desired by Government of Hong Kong either

for average price for current year which willybe probably about Rs 2200 or average price for 1914 which may be lower owing to decision arrived at to sell non-China markets 13200 chests next year I must decide not later than at the end of the year. As May does not return until December 30th would be glad if you would consult with him send instructions at once

what answer should be returned to Goverme-nt o-f India

present market price about Rs 1800 Estimates for next

year provide for Rs 3090 so that average price for current year will give profit about Rs 800. I have in hand 100 chests purchased for average price

Rs. 2200 and I am of opinion that offer from Government of India should be refused and that 100 chests more

should be purchased next auction probably under

Rs 2000 and subsequently as required.

SEVERN.