CO129-445 - Public Offices - 1917 — Page 285

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definite decision will be taken without consulting British

shipping interests at Shanghai as well as at Hongkong.

I have written semi-officially to the Governor of

Hongkong to enquire as to the powers of the hongkong

Committee and the principles by which it will be

guided,

Copy

No.241

I have &c,

(Signed)

B. Alзtion.

Hie Britannic Majesty's Consulate Genera

Shanghai.

281

June 25th 1917.

Sir:-

I have the honour to recommend to your favourable consideration the request contained in the enclosed letter which I have received from the British Shipping Companies on the coast who are seriously alarmed lest the needs of the China coast shipping trade may be overlooked should further vessels be required for Government purposes. As they state, the China coast trade proper has no connec- tion with Hongkong, and the Hongkong Government, as well as even the Head Offices in that Colony, have little knowledge of its requirements.

(Aigned)

I have &c,

E. H, Fraser.

B. F Alston Esq., C.B.

etc..

etc., etc.,

H. M. Chargé d'Affaires.

Peking.

Consul General.