CO129-499-5 Canton situation- governor's despatches 11-3-1927 - 11-3-1927 — Page 114

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COL

CONIAL

OFFICE

Sir,

30001

REC

12

COLLOF+

114

GOVERNMENT HOUSE,

HONGKONG.

27th April, 1927.

holl

In continuation of my secret despatch of

7. the 23rd April on the subject of the manning of the

British river steamers, I regret to have to report that the forecast contained in the last paragraph of

that despatch has proved correct. Mr. Brenan's tele-

gram failed to stiffen the attitude of the Directors

and the striking crew of the s.s. "Kinshan" has been

re-engaged with the exception of a few extremists who

took a leading part in the communist "cell" proceedings

The remainder of the crew endeavoured to make a stand

over the matter of wages during the period of absence;

but, finding the owners firm, gave way without further

argument. In addition to this practical lesson on the

consequences of striking, the Companies have, I am informed, signed off a certain number of known Bolshe-

vists from their other vessels and, although these have

been replaced by other members of the Canton Union, I

hope that the impression of abject surrender may have

been mitigated to some slight extent.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

THE RIGHT HONOURABLE,

Governor, &c.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL L.C.M.S. AMERY,M.P.,

&c.,

&c.,

&c.