893.512 Likin/43: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 17—1:05 p.m.]
783. Following from Swatow:
“October 16 [6], noon. The local likin authorities are refusing to recognize invoice transit certificates covering American goods although they pass British cargo without molestation. They state that they are carrying out the instructions of the provincial finance authorities. Will the Legation protest this to the Nanking authorities, or should the consulate accept the ruling of the likin authorities without further protest? What is the desire of the Legation regarding protests by consulates against inland taxation? Against discriminatory taxation of whatever nature?”
I have replied as follows:
“Since action of local authorities appears to be of a discriminatory nature you should file protest. Legation will decide what further action should be taken in the matter upon receiving from you mail report giving details and will at the same time instruct you fully with regard to protests by consulates against inland taxation.”