CO129-434 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [7-8] — Page 15

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C

.CONFIDENTIAL.

40485

PEC

·Rear 2016

GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

HONGKONG. 4th July, 1916.

13

BT

Sir,

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of

Your Confidential despatch of the 19th of April on the subject

of the proposed increase of light dues.

I approached the representatives of the largest Shipping Companies on the subject of a general increase of

light dues to 10 cents per ton but as the gentlemen in question

were not prepared to support the proposition I have let it

drop for the time being.

Gov 36578the 27th ultimo concerning a proposal to raise a lump sun by

In the meantime I have sent you a telegram on

loan or to institute a special contribution, in aid of Imperial War Funds, of 24 % on the revenue of the Colony assessable to Military contribution. The majority of Un-official members favour the first proposal. I myself prefer the second and I

await your decision on my telegraphic enquiry before I submit

details. The revenue is so satisfactory that I am of opinion

the increased annual contribution might be raised without

resorting to contentious taxation.

Es

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

Amag

Governor,&c..

THE RIGHT HONOURABLE

ANDREW BONAR LAW, M.P.,

&C..

&c.,

&c...