CO129-521-13 Chinese Customs- proposed agreement with Hong Kong 27-8-1930 - 16-10-1930 — Page 78

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wide knowledge and experience.

Such views as I have stated

above are put forward with all diffidence.

I have felt

all along that we must judge this question strictly on its

own merits, and that a solution can only be found by re-

opening discussion of it on a new basis, having in mind

solely how best the legitimate desire of the Chinese Gov-

ernment to protect its revenues from the dangers inherent

in the geographical position of Hong Kong in its relation

to the coasts of China can be reconciled with the equally

natural desire of the people and Government of Hong Kong

not to allow the functioning of a foreign fiscal adminis-

tration in its territory in a manner calculated to impair

the existing political rights and status of the Colony

A settlement of the question on these lines undoubtedly

demands a high degree of patience and goodwill, but I feel

that it should not be impossible of attainment if approach-

ed on both sides in such a spirit.

I have the honour to be,eta.,

(sgd) Miles .Lampson.

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