CO129-439 - Others - 1916 — Page 374

Ang farther communication should bo addressed to

THE SECRETARY,

And the following lotter and number should be quoted :-

CRV/C/84

Telegraphio Address: Munorgize, London.

Telephone Number: Victoria, 8700.

sir,

369

MINISTRY OF MUNITIONS OF WAR,

WHITEHALL PLACE,

LONDON, S.W.

34705

22-July 1916.

RECE

RED 24 JUL 16

I am directed by the Minister of Munitions to refer

to your letter No. 29408/1916 of the 29th. June on the

subject of the shipping of Lead from the Straits Settlements

and from Hong Kong.

I am to state, for the information of Mr. Secretary

Bonar Law, that having regard to the circumstances detailed

in the fourth paragraph of your letter, Mr. Montagu does not desire to press for restrictions on the shipment from

Hong Kong of Lead obtained from Foreign Countries.

It is regretted that no indication can be given of the amount which Russia would be prepared to take in Hong Kong for shipment to Vladivostock owing to the fact that this would

depend upon the price of the metal, and upon the proportion of Russia's requirements that it may be found possible to satisfy direct from the United Kingdom. The Minister would, however, be glad to have an apportunity of purchasing on Russian Account any lead which may be available in Hong Kong at a reasonable price.

1

The Minister notes with satisfaction that Mr. Bonar Law is prepared to give instructions that re-exportation from Hong Kong to Foreign Countries of Lead obtained from any British source should not be permitted.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

V.Vermon

Under Secretary of State,

Colonial Office, S.W.

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