15th November, 1853.
Present:
His Excellency The Governor
The Honorable The Colonial Treasurer
The Honorable C. B. Hillier, Esqre
The Honorable David Jardine, Esqre
The Honorable J. F. Edger, Esqre
The Council met today by Special Summons.
The Honorable the Attorney General was present as legal adviser to the Government.
The Minutes of the last Council were read and approved.
Read the first time the Draft Ordinance, entitled "An Ordinance for the removal of doubts regarding the right of aliens to hold and transfer property within the Colony of Hongkong," which had been previously sent round to Members.
The proposed Ordinance extending the duties of Chinese Tepos was laid before the Council, and discussed. It was agreed that the same should be brought forward for consideration at a subsequent meeting, when Members who might regard the passing of this Ordinance as inexpedient, should submit their objections in writing.
The Governor laid on the table a Draft Ordinance amending the Regulations for the sale of opium by retail passed in July 1847, and establishing Rules for the retail of Spirits for Chinese consumption only; and it was agreed that this Draft should be sent round to Members.
(Signed) S. G. Bonham.
Read and approved this 17th Day of November, 1853.
(Signed) L. d'Almada e Castro,
Clerk of Councils.