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The Foreign Secretary thought that, on the whole, it would be better that this statement should be made publicly, since it was in any case likely to become known.
The War Cabinet endorsed this view.
THE FOREIGN SECRETARY said that the abandonment of extra-territoriality meant a greater sacrifice on our part than on the part of the
Americans. But he thought that the scheme proposed was generally sound and should be accepted in principle.
The War Cabinet were informed of the position
as regards the Dominions.
The Government of the Commonwealth of Australia wanted to make a separate agreement with the Chinese Government. The object of this procedure was not altogether clear, since Australia had few rights to surrender: but we need raise no objection to this proposal.
The Government of the Union of South Africa agreed in principle, but wished to see the text of the proposed Treaty before any approach was made to the Chinese Government. If need be, the Union Government would have to be informed that we regard it as of the first importance that we should act at the same time as the United States Government.
The Canadian Government had not yet answered, but they would be asked to expedite their reply.
The Foreign Secretary added that he would endeavour to obtain a unilaterial statement from the
Chinese
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