CO129-538-1 Hong Kong University 31-12-1931 - 6-8-1932 — Page 178

7.

7.

284

forgotten. Besides, how many Chinese educationists of

the Hu Shih grade are there to be found in China? The

transitory visits to China of British University teachers

is beset with even greater difficulties. The standard

of English knowledge in most Chinese Universities is

deplorable. Even a body like the Board of Indemmity

Trustees can not conduct its business in English, and

I have met Ministers in Nanking who can not speak English

at all. These visiting professors will attract immense

audiences, but of those who come to hear them, not 5% will

understand a word of what is being said. I am not critic-

izing the Chinese for conducting their University studies

in their own language, but it is ridiculous to suppose,

as things are at present, that any good can come of sending

to China British professors who will not be able to make

themselves understood.

Sir Reginald Johnston has promised to discuss this point with

the Committee.

12. I am in agreement with the views expressed by Sir

Reginald Johnston at the meeting held here with him regarding

the Board of Trustees at Nanking. I am not of course familiar with the details of the disposition which it is proposed to make of the funds at the disposal of the Board or whether interest on its investments is likely to be forthcoming in due course, but

I am unable to feel any confidence that assistance from this

quarter is likely to be to any extent available for the purpose at present in view.

13.

The Board is appointed by the Government of China,

and we have no guarantee that its income will not be spent

entirely on schemes, educational or other, in China without any

regard to the mutual interests of that country and Great Britain.

I