BAN IGNORED.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 256, 28 September 1932, Page 8

BAN IGNORED.

GREYHOUNDS FOR CHINA. There is every possibility of the Syd-ney-registered steamer Balls Head being confiscated and sold at auction by the Chinese customs authorities at Shanghai, as the result of an alleged attempt to smuggle 75 Australian greyhounds into the port (states a Shanghai message). Intensive agitation last year led to the forcible closing of two greyhound racing establishments in the International Settlement, leaving one operating in the French Concession, where the agitation was disregarded. The Chinese Government banned the import of greyhounds, since when a few dogs have occasionally been smuggled into the country. The Balls Head left Newcastle, New r South Wales, with a cargo of coal, and the dogs. The coal was discharged at 1110110 (Philippines), and the dogs were taken to Shanghai. They were detected by the Customs authorities who now hold the ship, and are taking advice as to whether the Tientsin Trenty of 1858 is applicable. Article 47 of the treaty provides that British merchant vesesls are not entitled to carry on clandestine trade along the Chinese coasts, and that any vessel violating this- provision shall, with her cargo, be subject to confiscation by the Chinese Government.

The greyhounds concerned were bought by Mr Palamountain, who represented Eastern buyers, and left Sydney in his charge on June 23. Mr Jack Galbraith, son of the National Coursing Association secretary, and Mr C. Phillips, were engaged to look after the dogs on the trip. No expense was spared by Mr PalamouiTtain in selecting the dogs. A number of private trials were held at Harold Park, and, under expert opinions, the dogs were selected on their soundness and speed. They averaged approximately £ls, and, in some instances £25 was 1 paid for an outstandoing performer.