CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930 — Page 62

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if members of the regular forces could not be supplied,

then a special force under army discipline might be enrolled

for the purpose.

The representative of the Far Office

thought that that would be difficult and would much incree80

the expense, Finally the Companies agreed that they thought

their requirements might be met to some extent by selecting

a naval or military officer to take charge of the training

of the proposed forces. Sir Gilbert Grindle said that he

thought the Government of Hong Kong would see no objection

to this. At this stage the suggestion was that a retired

officer should be engaged for the purpose, but later on the

War Office representative said he thought it might be

possible to second an active service officer for the purpose.

4. A question arose as to the control of the proposed

force when on board ship. It was explained to the Shipping

Representatives that whatever system was adopted, the control

on board ship rested with the Master of the ship.

They laid a special emphasis on the fact

that other nations were providing guards.

They cited especially the Dutch.