CO129-508-4 Cases of attacks by pirates 6-11-1927 - 23-11-1928 — Page 98

however, is merely surmise on my part and may be

disproved by further investigation.

8.

}

98

The warning was communicated by the Hongkong

police to the Commodore in longkong and I presume

also to the shipping companies. I have not been

informed what special precautions were taken by the

Eritish naval authorities or 3, the companies, but

the officers of the ill fated vessel were apparently

taken completely by surprise. No mention is made in

the press report of any measures for the protection

of the bridge, and the officers' arms, as in all

these piracy cases, were left in the cabins, a pre-

sent for the first pirate gang to take the ship.

I would refer you to my despatch No.2 of the 16th

January 1928 for my own views as to the essential

precaution to be taken by the shipping companies

for the internal defence of their ships, namely a

fortified bridge. But as this does not seem to we

practicable on account of the expense involved,

the only remaining remedy would appear to be to

supply these vessels with armed guards to be furnish-

ed by the British garrisons in Hongkong, China and

the Straits Settlements. I enclose a copy of a

letter from Mr. N. S. Brown, the General Manager

of Messrs. Butterfield & Swire, submitting this

proposal, which I have the honour to recommend for

your favourable consideration.

I have etc.,

(Signed)

J. F. BRENAN.

Acting Consul-General.