CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926 — Page 29

VITA' ME

26A

4.

They should expressly disclaim any intention of forcing foreign control upon an unwilling China. They should show that they are prepared to revise their traditional

attitude regarding the upholding of strict treaty rights.

There will continue to be in the future as there have been

in the past breaches of treaties as a result either of

lawlessness or of deliberate intent, but it will be equal-

ly difficult to secure the enforcement of treaty stipu-

lations or to effect their much needed revision. During

-

this possibly very prolonged period of uncertainty the

Powers can only, in the view of His Majesty's Government,

adopt an expectant attitude and endeavour to shape develop

ments so far as possible in conformity with the realities

of the situation so that ultimately, when treaty revision

becomes possible, it will be found that part at least of

the revision has already been effected on satisfactory

lines. It would therefore be wise to abandon the policy

of ineffective protest over minor matters, reserving

protest - which should then be made effective by united

action only for cases where vital interests are at stake.

Every case should be considered on its merits and the

declaration should show that the Powers are prepared to

consider in a sympathetic spirit any reasonable proposals that the Chinese authorities, wherever situated, may make

even if contrary to strict interpretation of treaty rights,

in return for fair and considerate treatment of foreign

interests by them. The declaration should show that it

is the policy of the Powers to endeavour to maintain

harmonious relations with China without waiting for or

insisting on the prior establishment of a strong Central

government.

8.

P.0.

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