CO129-491 - Public Offices - 1925 — Page 125

(1)

12:

Recommendations as to the steps to be taken for

the improvement of the Chinese judicial system, and as to the conditions which, when they have been fulfilled on the part of China, would justify the complete transference to Chinese courts of the jurisdiction over foreigners at present exercised by foreign courts. It is unfortunately to be anticipated that, among these conditions, are some which can only be gradually fulfilled for instance, the assumption by a contral Chinese Government of responsibility for the administration of justice all over the country. The Commis- sion will therefore, it is hoped, also be able to make

Recommendations as to what particular portions of

(2)

the jurisdiction at present exercised by foreign courts might, without weakening the protection enjoyed by foreigners for their lives, property and legitimate business and other interests, be progressively transferred to Chinese Courts, pari passu with what particular improvements in the administre tion of Chinese justice.

(3) Finally the Commission will, it is hoped, since His Majesty's Government are anxious that no time should be lost in removing as many as possible of the causes of fric- tion which in recent years have marred the relations between China and the Powers, be able to recommend measures to be put in force immediately with a view to remedying any abuses of the presont system and any unnecessary encroachments upon China's sovereign rights.

I am,

sir,

Your obedient Servant,