CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926 — Page 298

Abroad/379. (4.5.1).

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293

30th January 1926.

sir,

1.

2.

I am commanded by the Army Council to refer to Colonial office letter No.51531/25 dated December 10th 1925, on the subject of the strength of the garrison of Hong Kong.

I am to say that the Council have considered the proposal, put forward by the Governor of Hong Kong, that, British subjects in the Concessions throughout China might be called upon to make a financial contribution towards the cost of the maintenance of the regular forces in Hong Kong. It appears, however, to the Council that there is a grave disadvantage in this proposal, in that it might lead these eammunities to imagine that, as they contributed directly toward the upkeep of these forces, they should have a voice as to their distribution and employment, and a definite right to call for protection in times of trouble.

The Council could not admit this claim, as the distribution and employment of the troops available must always depend upon the general strategical situation, and must" remin entirely in the hands of the military authorities.

They have therefore come to the conclusion that the proposal is impracticable,

I am to say that a copy of this letter has been sent to the Colonial Office.

Lecretary,

Committee of Imperial Defence,

2 Whitehall Gardens.

Subs

I am,

sir,

Your obedient Servant,

(Sgd) B.B. Cubitt.