CO129-438 - Public Offices - 1916 — Page 319

SECRET

313

CUPY.

083/4942.

(K.0.3.).

2nd January 1916.

Sir,

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 Shamaen 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 garrisen 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 Japanese Government might be requested to undertake the

protection of Shameen and other Foreign Settlements in China

and I am to ask that the Lords Commissionere will be so

good as to favour the Army Council with their views as to

what reply should be sent to the General Officer Commanding,

China Command.

A copy of the attached telegram has been forwarded to

the Foreign Office to whom a similar letter has also been

addressed.

The Secretary,

Admiralty.

I am,

Sir,

(36).

Your obedient servant.

B.B. Cubitt.