CO129-438 - Public Offices - 1916 — Page 339

Moni

MAJ

TO

[

083/4942. (M.0.3.)

SECRET

2nd January 1916.

333

i

gir,

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 Shaneen 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 go

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

Admiralty

addressed.

I am.

sir,

Your obedient Servant,

(0gd.) B. B. Cubitt.

The Secretary, Admiralty,

and.

The Under Secretary of State for the Colonies,

Foreign

office.