'File 19/212 I (C 41) Bahrain Transit Trade' [‎28r] (74/576)

14
No:K/l4* Karachi.
Dated the 17th0^tober 1931.
from: -
The Political Agent A mid-ranking political representative (equivalent to a Consul) from the diplomatic corps of the Government of India or one of its subordinate provincial governments, in charge of a Political Agency. ,
Bahrain at KARACHI.
To:-
Vessrs ifackinnon Mackenzie & Co.,
Ballard Estate..Bombay.
Sirs,
I have the honour to refer to the question of
■
o-rereide deliveries at Bahrain of goods manifested for
Ojair and other mainland ports.
2. The Mesopotamia Persia Corporation have,I believe,
given you the facts of the case from their point of view,and
your Karachi branch have also informed you how they are
affected as shippers. 1 understand that you have temporarily
suspended these shipments,but in case further preasure is
brought upon you to resume them,l think it advisable to show J
how the Bahrain State will be affected and the possible
repercussions upon your interests.
S. The Bahrain State depend on their Customs revenue
for 90% of their revenue,and in their straitened circumstances
the slightest reduction is a most serious matter. The
arrangement of overside delivery by the British India Steam
navigation Company causes a loss of ad valorem on the
whole amount transhipped and these amounts we have to wake
good somehow,a probable alternative being the levy of Port
dues and increased customs fines for packages short delivered.
At present the Shipping Companies pay no dues whatsoever,
though they benefit substantially by the facilities provided !
and are able to clear their veAiels far more quickly than
was formerly the case. You are probably aware of the
instance of a certain rice steamer before the War which was
delayed for 66 days,and it is only the improved administration