In reply to the representations made to them by His Majesty's Government, the Japanese Government have consistently disclaimed any responsibility and have contended that Japan cannot prevent a practice which is principally due to unreasonably high Chinese tariffs and to defects of Chinese administration. His Majesty's Government have made it plain that they are unable to share the view which the Japanese Government take in this matter, though it may be that certain items in the Chinese tariff are unduly high. The matter will naturally be kept under close review.