( 46 )
Honourable T. H. WHITEHEAD.-Does the existence of the Pó Léung Kuk and its detectives interfere with the free and unfettered action of the Police in any way?
A.--I think it is calculated to, and I should say that very likely it does.
The CHAIRMAN.-What is your reason for that opinion?
A.-I consider that any body of this kind that assumes to itself functions that are properly Police functions is calculated to interfere with the course of justice.
Q.-Have you ever found that to be the case?
A. I consider that the preliminary investigation-the prisoner and the other parties being examined—is calculated to interfere with the course of justice.
Q.-Have you ever known any other case similar to the one you have mentioned? A.-I am unable to say that. The case I spoke of was a recent case, but it has been my impression for a very long time.
Q.-Can you refer us to any case?
A.-I should say that all cases in which the Pó Léung Kuk prosecute--in all cases there has been a preliminary examination either by the Pó Léung Kuk or Registrar General.
Q.-Why do you say that?
A. It is my impression from the hearing of the cases.
Q.-Merely an impression?
A.—I will not say impression. The parties are always taken first to the Pó Léung Kuk or Registrar General.
Honourable T. H. WHITEHEAD.—I suppose that has come out in evidence?
A.-It has come out in evidence that they have been taken to the Pó Léung Kuk. The CHAIRMAN.-Who have been taken?
A.-The parties.
Q.-The prisoner ?
A. The prisoner also.
Q.-Has it ever come out in evidence that the Registrar General has examined the prisoner and sent her up to the Magistrate ?
A.-I should say it is not done.
it is not done. I should say it is not done in consequence of
representations made by the Magistrate.
Q. Has the Magistrate ever made any representations to him?
A.-It is possible I have done so. I am under the impression that the practice of enquiring of the prisoner-of getting his statement-was stopped in consequence of representations made by the Magistrate,
Q.-You say the Registrar General has been in the habit of taking the statement of
a prisoner and then sending him to the Magistrate to be charged?
A.-I am of the opinion that he used to do so.
Q-Until what period of time?
A. A recent period I should say.
Q.-What period do you refer to ?
A. Say within the last two years.
Honourable T. H. WHITEHEAD.-Have you any idea what number of members there is in the Pó Léung Kuk Society?
A.-I have no knowledge of that.