British Statement

We the British feel that The terms of the Treaty of Nanking seem adequate for our government for the time being. First of all, I am delighted that my fellow countrymen now have the privilege to learn Chinese as this new addition could further strengthen Sino-British relations. With all essential ports open, we can now look forward to a great era of prosperity. Among our gains with the Treaty of Nanking, the Treaty of the Bogue gave us more privileges that were unresolved before. However, we express concerns towards the Treaties of Wangshia and Whampoa. China and France agreed the Treaty of Whampoa which allows the spread of the practice of Christianity among the Chinese people. As we are protestants ourselves, we fear that there is a high chance of a conflict between us and the French. As we want to keep stable relations with China, we do not want to spill blood on their soil. Also, we are deeply afraid about the terms of the Treaty of Wangshia. China has agreed with America to illegalise opium. Our economy will go down the tubes, and facing America as an enemy is out of the question. From these terms, we could see that the Chinese are doing their best to improve relations. However, they have not agreed to let us enter Canton and if this continues we will have no choice but to use force. This is inevitable but war is the only way.