CO129-595-1 Anti-British feeling in China- memorandum by J V Braga 15-2-1946 - 15-8-1946 — Page 2

1. From John V. Braga

2.

"

Gr. Kitson

2

15/2/46 5/4/46.

Mr. J.V. Braga of Anglo-Portuguese descent and a well known resident of Hong Kong has written a memorandum entitled "Anti-British Feeling in China". Mr. Braga's two main points are

(a) that anti-British feeling among the Chinese or Hong Kong and South Chine is widespread although not generally apparent or recognized by Europeans and

(b) that it is chiefly due to the incivility of British people in Hong Kong.

In support of his thesis Mr. Braga quotes a number of examples. They are deplorable but I have no doubt authentic.

I imagine that it is well recognized in the Colonial Office that inconsiderateness and incivility by British people towards the local inhabitants is a main difficulty in maintaining good relations. The matter, however, is one that is difficult to combat since direct exhortations are likely to be resented by the unofficial British community. No doubt the most effective way of influencing public opinion is by ensuring that Government officers set a good example in this matter.

Four suggestions are made by Mr. Braga on page 17 of his memorandum for improving relations between British and Chinese. Firstly he suggests the preparation of a pamphlet. The Foreign Orice say that they are following up this idea. Secondly

he suggests that an appeal should be launched to the directors of British banks, insurance companies and other similar concerns asking them to stress to their employees the importance of maintaining good

relations with the Chinese and to deal strictly with any inexcusable cases of gross incivility. Thirdly a department should be created in the Hong Kong Government responsible for propaganda in this matter. The forth recommendation relutes to the Hong Kong Club.

I am doubtful or the value of raising this matter formally with the Hong Kong Government and it may be thought that the best course would be a semi-official letter to Sir Mark Young touching briefly on the points mentioned in the memorandum. I attach

a draft letter for conson.

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