CO129-495 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1926 [11-12] — Page 470

(3)

interference that has been largely responsible for present position at Canton (see annual report 1923 Sections 151-157).

3.

Principal differences between you and us thus seem to amount to this:-

(a) Attitude of Chinese to Foreign Control. You say (Conference telegram No.31) that "best Chinese opinion is not averse to maintenance or strengthening of customs régime which protects revenues against militarists and that debt consolidation under Bystem of customs charge and control would be generally regarded as of benefit to China as a whole. Now how far is "best Chinese opinion" really representative of China or how far merely of Poking? How far is it qualified to speak for and guarantee the acquiescence Viewed from this end

of nationalists and provinces?

we seem to be face to face with a strong widespread and growing nationalist movement, not confined to a few students but embracing Chinese of diverse classes and opinions, and aiming at total elimination of foreign interference. It has every appearance of being the real force of the future in China, Do we over-estimate its influence?

No doubt any government with which we negotiate being human will welcome foreign control in its own interest. But in view of nationalist aspirations have present goverment shown any views on the subject? if present control is to continue, ought it not at least to be only at their own open request.

Do you

And

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F