542
advantages of securing the most efficient management possible for all concerns operating in China under British law.
His Majesty's Secretary of State now desires me to con- sult you and the Crown Advocate on the subject. I should be glad to have information as to cases which would be likely in your opinion to arise, if licences were obtainable in special circumstances; as to whether it is possible to judge whether many applications for such licences might be anticipated; and as to whether the grant of licences might prove invidious. With the modern tendency towards industrial production in China, and the spread of distributing agencies throughout the country, it appears to me that a careful and far-sighted
decision on this subject may have considerable influence
on future development, and I am anxious that all possible
evidence should be laid before His Majesty's Government befor
a decision is reached.
Will you be good enough to discuss the question with
the Crown Advocate, and to advise me of your views in the
light of your experience in Shanghai. I should be glad also
if Mr. Fox would express an opinion, obtaining should he con-
sider it desirable the views of the Committee of the British
Chamber of Commerce.
In the meanwhile please inform the British American Tobacco Company that His Majesty's Government will await the opportunity of discussing the question personally with Sir John Jordan before reaching a final decision in regard to the issue of a supplementary Order in Council.
I am, etc.,
(Signed.) M. W. Lampson.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.