Shanghai, 4th June, 1896.
Sm,—The Chairman. of this Chamber had the honour of addressing you on the 4th of July, 1895, about the desirability of appointing a River Conservancy Board to apply and enforce rules for the navigation of the Woosung Bar and River, and whose authority should be recognised by the Chinese Government and the Treaty Powers, In your reply you expressed a doubt whether this was a matter that could be dealt with by the Consular Body, and stated that if by the constitution of a Conservancy Board it was sought to give legislative sanction to the Customs rales now in existence, it would he necessary to appeal to the several Governments concerned.
In reply the Chairman of the Chamber pointed out that the Customs Authorities have no power to enforce the rules that do exist, to which, I am given to understand, no objection is made by nautical men and pilots engaged on the River, but for their efficiency if is absolutely requisite that they should be observed by vessels of all nationalities visiting this port. The constant accidents occurring on the Bar, the expense that is caused to foreign shipping, and the appalling loss of life that took place on the occasion of the Ontco disaster, show how very necessary it is that something should be done to remedy the existing state of affairs, and therefore this Chamber once more appeals to the Consular Body to use their influence to bring about some change that will render the navigation of the Whangpoo safer than it is at present.
This Chamber is ready to join in any proceeding which has this end in view, and perhaps it would be advisable in the first instance to appoint a Commission of Enquiry, the constitution of which might be determined by yourself and colleagues.
have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, J. Dupcrox, Vice-Chairman.
Dr. O. Sruzset, Consul-General for Germany and Senior Consul.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.