CO129-423 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [7-8] — Page 303

;

COPY.

Enclosure 1.

Confidential.

The Honourable

Dr. Claud Severn,

Colonial Secretary.

şir,

40875 ¡PECO

Hongkong, 29th. June¡RIA15. SEP 15

299

I beg to remind you that last Autum I raised

the question with the Government as to certain British subjects who were taking over business formerly done by Germans and who, it appeared, were, in most cases at all events, merely keeping the business open for Alien Enemies until the termination of the war. This was specially referred to in my letter to you of 14th.Septem- -ber last.

It has since become increasingly evident that former German firms, who still have their representatives in South China, are continuing, and even extending, this policy with the assistance of British subjects or persons of German origin who pose as such.

Now that we understand trading with the enemy has been forbidden to British subjects in China, we may look to see an increase of effort on the above lines, on the part of Alien Enemies to retain their held on their trade.

While it is probable none of the facts I now propose to lay before you are not already known to the Government, it appears desirable to again urge the necessity for dealing with this class of people who sheltering themselves under their British nationality are in reality helping the enemy. I am further confirm- -ed in the necessity for this by information which has within the past few days been laid before me, chiefly by two leading British residents in Canton, who independently of each other called on me and urged the need for action on the part of the British Authori- -ti en.

Mannors. This person, as you are aware, up to

the outbreak of hostilities was a Senior Clerk in the firm of Messre Siemsson and Company and held their power to sign per procuration.

Ho