CO129-501-8 General policy in China 30-11-1926 - 30-11-1926 — Page 171

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force at Canton in September last, followed if necessary

by the actual use of force. Successful diplomacy in

the Far East depends chiefly on prestige and on

realization by the oriental politicians, with whom we

negotiate, that we are not afraid of them and that we

shall not shrink from the use of force to uphold our

treaty-rights. If, therefore, as regards China it is

really the case that "any policy based on the assertion

of treaty-rights by force of arms, either with or

without the co-operation of the other Powers, is

entirely impracticable" (see paragraph 29 supra), then

our position in China will soon be so enfeebled as to

become untenable, our trade with china is likely to

be ruined, and our hold even on the Colony of Hong

Kong will be undermined, while the downfall of British

prestige in china could not fail to have grave

out

repercussions in India and through the East.

1 have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

Governor, &c.