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We have therefore to suggest the alternative methods set out in the enclosure hereto by which Government might improve the Public Houses in the Colony.
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Of the three suggestions we favour the first with the addition of (a), (b) and (c) in suggestion No. 3 inserting words "or approved by" between the words "from and "Government" in (a).
(Signed) F. H. MAY.
C. P. CHATER.
EDWARD OSBRONE."
ENCLOSURE.
Alternative suggestions for improving Public Houses in Hongkong.
1.--(a.) Let Government take over the licensing of public houses and give notice to the present Licensees of Public Houses that after three years from next licensing date it will not renew the existing licences.
(b.) Let it then reduce the number of licences to 10 (which gives about 1 for every 1,000 of the white population including the Garrison) and issue these 10 to a Company to run the houses on the Gothenburg system; or
2. Let the Government only license a certain limited number of first class houses at an increased fee for the sale of beer, wines and spirits as at present; and license another set at lower fees for the retail sale of beer only.
Let it at the same time alter a Grocer's Licence so that sales may be limited to 3 bottles (instead of to 1 as at present); or
3. Let Government take over the licensing of all houses in place of having it in the hands of the Justices and reduce the number of public houses and at the same time impose new conditions on the remaining ones, e.g. :-
(.) all liquor to be procured from Government;
(b.) premises to be passed fit for use as a public house by Director of Public Works
and Medical Officer of Health;
(c.) licences to be liable to immediate cancellation if drunkenness permitted on the
premises.