893.512/424: Telegram
The Chargé in China ( Mayer ) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 25—8 a.m.]
510. My 497, October 20, 7 p.m.
1. Following from American consul, Swatow.
“October 22, noon. My telegram of October 21, noon.71 Local authorities now propose to extend the surtax on all imports and exports amounting to one-half the customs duties already being applied in Canton to Swatow. Regulations are apparently identical with those in force in Canton. The Legation’s instructions as to what action, if any, should be taken are requested.”
2. In event of institution of proposed new taxes at Swatow I assume Department desires action there similar to that it will instruct me to take respecting Canton, that is, to endeavor to have Swatow situation covered by any joint protest in regard to Canton taxes which may be decided upon by the powers concerned or otherwise by independent protest to Canton and Peking regimes, Swatow being under Canton authorities.
- Not found in Department files.↩