CO129-438 - Public Offices - 1916 — Page 318

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COPY.

083/4942.

(M.0.3.)

Sir,

SECRET.

312

2nd January 1916.

I am commanded by the Army Council to forward the enclosed copy of a telegram dated 27th December 1915, on the subject of the defence under certain eventualities of

the Shameen Settlement at Canton, which has been received

from the General Officer Commanding, China.

I am to say that no troops are at present available from other theatres for reinforcing the garrison at Hong Kong, nor is it known whether in the event of an emergency arising

any assistance in the defence of Shameen could be reckoned

upon from the Navy. It has been suggested that the apunese Goverment might be requested to undertake the protection

of Shameen and other Foreign Set:lements in China, and I am to ask that Sir Ddward Grey will be so good as to favour the Army Council with his views as to what reply should be x sent to the General Officer Com.anding, China Command.

A copy of the attached telegram has been forvarded to the Admiralty to whom a similar letter has been addressed.

I am,

The Under Secretary of State,

Foreign Office.

Sir.

Your obedient servant,

(Bā).

B.B. Cubitt.

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