CO129-488 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1925 [1-7] — Page 486

472 have come penniless from Hongkong. A number of strikers and

others have returned to Hongkong, finding conditions preferable here, and it is stated that many others would come back if they were not prevented by force.

8.

I referred at the time of the Seaman's strike

to the extraordinary effect that intimidation produces upon

the Chinese mind. The matter is one which it is difficult

to cope with, but I am satisfied that most useful work is being done in this connection by means of propaganda which is being edited and issued by a Chinese Committee, to all appearance spontaneously and without the prompting of the Government. The printing of statements of fact is done in the Gaol and other printing is in charge of the Missions

Etrangeres, who have kindly lent their press. The American Consul has volunteered to supply contributions from American Missionaries in China which may prove useful in putting the true facts of the situation before the World. Copies of two telegrams received from him have been passed on to Reuter. I enclose a copy of a statement which I made at a meeting of the Legislative Council on the 24th June.

I am satisfied that the measures taken to reassure the

community are having an excellent effect in putting a stop

to the panic which at first prevailed.

9.

Another method of combating terrorism, most comforting to the Chinese, is the display of the forces

available to the Government for the preservation of peace and good order in the community. To this end, in addition to strong Police pickets, the Navy, troops, and Volunteers make route marches through the town from time to time, the

last named with their armoured car, which is particularly

reassuring.

10. You will have gathered from what I have

written that there is nothing in the situation at present

which