CO129-494 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1926 [9-10] — Page 355

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had altered his view that the junks could be driven down the river. He now proposed only to herd them

A minor together andprevent their being used. objection to his schemes was that it would be practically impossible to apply this procedure to a foreign war-ship, also it wouldnot prevent the importation of arms as the Russian ships carrying arms couldbe brought alongside

the deep-water quays.

It appeared therefore that the Admiralty attitude was that, given the necessity of holding Shameen, there was no new form of pressure to be brought to bear on Canton short of a first-class naval and military operation, i.e. open war and formal blockade. In this they were supported by the War Office and Air

Ministry.

We pointed out the extreme seriousness of the

position reached. It meant that we were powerless to bring any pressure on the Canton Government if on the 10th October they failed to keep their promise. Merely turning the pickets off the water front would do nothing to stop the boycott of British trade or

bring pressure to bear on Canton. It appeared that

the Admiralty view hinged on the supposed necessity

of holding on to Shameen. We therefore suggested that it should be considered whether it was more important

to hold on to Shamen or to stop the boycott. The

Admiralty representative said that evacuation could

not be confined to Europeans. There was a considerable

population of friendly Chine se whose lives wouldbe in danger, and who must also be evacuated. This would be a bigger operation than the gun-boats could manage, The Foreign Office also pointed out that it would be

essential

essential to consult the French before anything was done. They agreed to insert in their telegram some phrases which would elicit local opinion asto the preliminary evacuation of Shameen.

It was understood that the fighting de part- ments thought it wouldbe possible to carry out the Commodore'a suggestions if Shamen were first evacuated. But it is very doubtful whether the authorities on the spot will recommend evacuation. They have hitherto been strongly opposed to it.

In view of the Admiralty attitude, I pre sume

we can but concur in the Foreign Office telegram? We shall be in a stronger position to press for action if the Canton Government are not merely dilatory, but openly defiant after 10th October. But of course it is possible, and much to be hoped, that the question of an ultimatum and coercive measures may not arise.

We should also telegraph to the Governor to report how the boycott stands as soon as possible after 10th October. The Foreign Office are telegraphing

in this sense to the Consul General,

Copies

the Governor's letegram of were before the conference

Becofprite.

5 Oct.26

2

and October

I think cc. might pr

might pred as prepared.

5.10.16.

Muiscaly fear. But it to

In res

Ove