CO129-500-4 Canton situation- governor's despatches 15-9-1927 - 24-11-1927 — Page 100

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General Wong is unable to depart by ordinary steamers in fear

of being captured by his enemies who are on the look out for

him. General Fung earnestly requests the Hong Kong Government

to take General Wong to Shiu Hing in a British gunboat which he considers the only safe and speedy way of getting him away.

In asking for this assistance the General appeals to the friend-

ship and sympathy of the Hong Kong Government for General Li

Chai-sum, and he pointed out the danger of allowing communism to get into power again in Canton, which would be harmful not

only to China, but also to Hong Kong.

In reply to General Fung, His Excellency says that the

General has made a very difficult request of the Hong Kong

Government, and he is afraid that he cannot comply with it,

however much he might like to do so. Personally he regrets the

difficulties in which General Li finds himself as General Li

has shown a desire to maintain order in Kwang Tung and to reopen friendly relations with Hong Kong, but the instructions from His Majesty's Government are to observe strict neutrality in all matters concerning internal strife in China. Great Britain has at times been accused of having shown partiality to one faction or the other, but although our Government may be sympathetic with any Authorities who are endeavouring to establish a good and firm Government, we have never taken sides. Of course, if British property and lives are in danger, it is the duty of our Government to protect them. Fung's request to take General ong to Shiu Hing in a British gunboat to enable him to take command of his army against Canton, if complied with, would mean our taking an active part in a civil struggle in China. His Excellency regrets that he cannot see his way to depart from the policy of strict neutrality of this Colony. So long as General Jong remains in

Hong Kong

General