From CHINA.
De cypher.
Sir M. Lampson, (Peking),
1st March 1929.
D.
1.50 p.m.
1st March 1929.
R.
9.00 a.m. 1st March 1929.
No.175.
49
Addressed to Foreign Office, repeated to
Mr. Newton, No.27.
liy telegram No. 125.
On February 26th the whole Corps Diplomatique
considered the matter. There seemed general agreement
with the exception of Japan that the arms embargo
might now reasonably be terminated; but French Chargé
d'Affaires had instructions that until situation was
clearer it might be suspended rather than terminated.
As to suspension I felt bound to express personal
opinion that although it might at first sight be
attractive, it seemed to have practical difficulties:
I imagined that repeal of our subordinate legislation
would be entailed and possibly this might later have
to be re-introduced: moreover it would be very
awkward to explain mere suspension to Nanking. Minister thought re-introduction of embargo would be very difficult.
Senior
The question now is whether we are to go ahead
independently of Japan. My feeling is that events in
Shantung might be used as a pretext to suspend
consideration. By this means Japan will have a
little longer to come to terms with China over Shantung etc: but if she still maintains her attitude in say
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