F4312/2726/10.
SECRET
[CYPHER]
DEPARTMENTAL No. 2.
FROM SHANGHAI TO FOREIGN OFFICE.
Sir A. Noble.
D.
2.25 a.m.,
20th May, 1941:
No. 463.
20th May, 1941.
R.
12.20 p.m.,
21st May, 1941.
Repeated to Chungking
Hong Kong
By first available safe opportunity.
645
333
My immediately following telegram gives the text of draft Defence Regulations drawn up under China (Emergency) Order in Council of 1939 empowering China companies to move their registered offices to any part of the British Empire including Hong Kong, should they consider it desirable to do so.
The
2. These regulations were inspired by the Defence (Companies temporary transfer of registered office) Regulations A of the Government of Hong Kong. Consul General and the British Chamber of Commerce consider early enactment of this legislation most desirable.
3. Fear of taxation in the new territory to which China company may transfer its registered office may make some companies reluctant to move when it would be in the national interest to do so, but any attempt to provide for exemption from taxation would involve much delay and I think consideration of this point might be deferred until experience shows what companies will not move until exemption is granted.
4.
If you have any observations to offer I should be glad to receive them as early as possible.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.