*
423
Appendix B.
Report on the New Territory for the Year 1905.
1. During the year 1905 there was not a large amount of serious crime in the New Territory and it was chiefly remarkable for its equal distribution through the year, of which 'the early part produced fewer robberies than the later, and the period before and after Chinese New Year was free from the robberies by which it is usually characterised. The North- west borders of the Territory (previous to the erection of the block-house mentioned below) and the South of Mirs.Bay with the Island of Ping Chau, again suffered most from these depredations; however the last successful raid upon Ping Chau Island induced the islanders to obtain permission to form a guard, which has repulsed a subsequent attempt at robbery; it is to be hoped that a similar spirit of enterprise may in future animate other parts of the Territory.
2. As usual, the large majority of the minor offences were contraventions of the Opium Ordinance; larcenies have been of rare occurrence and it is noticeable that debts are seldom denied or disputed, which greatly facilitates the administration of justice.
3. What was formerly the most exposed part of the Territory is now well protected by the block-house at the Ta Ku Ling, on the North of the Sheung Shui District. This was commenced on January 27th, at which date 1 Indian Sergeant and 4 Indian Constables (of whom 2 Constables were detailed from Sheung Shui and the others from the Central) were accommodated in tents close by, until they moved into the quarters in March. The block- house is connected by telephone with Sheung Shui and Sha Tau Kok and has proved of
inestimable value.
4. The general health of the Force has been good. The strength at Au Tau has suffer- ed considerably from fever, and Sai Kung has been affected in the same way; but the cases were distributed among a small number of the men, while others felt no ill effects. By re- moving the former as soon as they are found to be susceptible, it may be possible consider- ably to lessen this form of sickness.
5. The past year has been distinguished in the New Territory by two excellent crops of rice, and by appearances of increased prosperity throughout most districts, shown in the construction of new houses and in a constant demand for theatrical performances: but I regret that this has not led to an increased readiness to pay rent. The redemption of land for the new road led to prompter payments by the districts concerned, and it is pleasant to report that the poorer districts of Sai Kung and Sha Tau Kok have paid without pressure, but the South-western districts of Tsin Wan and Tai Lam Chung have paid nothing, and owing to their distance from the Police Stations it is difficult to collect these rents. Nor has much success attended the arrangements made with certain elders for the maintenance of certain roads in the Territory.
Throughout the year the Chinese officials on the frontier have co-operated with the Police in a most friendly manner.
G. N. ORME,
Assistant Superintendent of Police.