CO129-438 - Public Offices - 1916 — Page 336

083/4942. (M.0.3.)

SECRET

2nd January 1916.

330

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 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 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 Commissioners 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 Foraim office) to whom a similar letter has also been

Admiralty addressed.

I am,

sir,

Your obedient Servant,

(Sgd.)

B. B. Cubitt.

The Secretary, Admiralty,

and

The Under Secretary of State for the Colonies,

Foreign Office.

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