PRESENT:―
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 65 3BD OCTOBER, 1912.
Papers
HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR, SIR F. H. MAY, K.C.M.G.
HON. THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE TROOPS, COLONEL C. W. R. ST. JOHN.
HON. MR. CLAUD SEVERN (Colonial Secretary).
HON. MR. J. A. S. BUCKNILL (Attorney General).
HON. MR. A. M. THOMSON (Colonial Treasurer).
HON. MR. W. CHATHAM, C.M.G. (Director of Public Works).
HON. MR. E. R. HALLIFAX (Registrar General).
HON. CAPTAIN F. J. BADELEY (Captain Superintendent of Police).
HON. SIR KAI HO KAI, M.D., C.M.G.
HON. MR. WEI YUK.
HON. MR. H. E. POLLOCK, K.C.
HON. MR. C. H. ROSS.
HON. MR. J. W. C. BONNAR.
MR. R. H. CROFTON (Clerk of Councils). Minutes
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
New Member
The Hon. Mr. J. W. C. Bonnar took the oath and assumed his seat as a member of Council.
Financial Minutes
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of His Excellency the Governor, laid on the table Financial Minutes Nos. 39 to 47, and moved that they be referred to the Finance Committee.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid on the table the following papers: ― The Report of the Committee appointed to inquire into the expenditure and delay in constructing the Post Office Building, also the Financial Statement in connection with the Estimates for 1913, and the Abstract showing differences between the estimates of expenditure for 1912 and 1913.
Sanitary Board Bye-Laws
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY laid on the table Additional Bye-laws with regard to the removal of ceilings, stairlinings, etc., made under section 16 of the Public Health and Buildings Ordinances, 1903-1911, and moved that they be approved by the Council.
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY moved that the Council approve of the additional Bye-laws for the prevention and mitigation of epidemic, contagious, or infectious disease.
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
Hongkong and Wireless
Telegraphy.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―Your Excellency, I beg leave to make the motion which stands in my name, and as hon. members have the motion in full before them I will, with your Excellency's permission, ask them to take it as read. This motion, Sir, has reference to the very important subject of wireless telegraphy, which, as your Excellency is aware, has formed the subject of questions and debates in this Council for something like two years past, but, Sir, all the information that we have been able to get upon this subject has, until the last few weeks, been
66 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
very much of a tentative and provisional character; in fact, Sir, when I asked the question in this Council at our last meeting on 22nd August this year as to whether the Government could give any information to the Council with reference to the promised establishment of a wireless telegraph station in this Colony, the hon. Colonial Secretary replied: "The Government is not yet in a position to give any information on the subject." That, Sir, was the position of affairs so recently as a few weeks ago. Since then, however, there has come out to this Colony a report of the debate in the House of Commons on the 7th August, the last day of the session, in the course of which debate the Postmaster General, Mr. Herbert Samuel, made a statement with regard to wireless telegraphy which gave us some useful, interesting and pleasurable information. It appeared, Sir, from the speech of the Postmaster-General on that occasion, that various important bodies such as the Cable Landing Rates Committee, a Sub-Committee on Imperial Defence, and the Imperial Conference had taken into their joint consideration the question of communication by wireless telegraphy throughout the Empire, and it appeared from the speech of the Postmaster General that as the result of that conference, whilst providing for the sending of all Naval and Military messages required for defensive purposes, it was still apparently considered practicable that a considerable number of commercial messages could be dispatched, thereby incidentally reducing considerably, as it was hoped, the cable rates between different portions of the Empire. The sending of commercial messages and the reduction of cable rates are very prominent features of the Postmaster-General's speech. With regard to the erection of a chain of wireless stations throughout the Empire, he says that on two points there will be no disagreement. The first was that the erection of a chain of telegraph stations at suitable points throughout the Empire was in itself desirable. In peace they would be useful for commercial purposes and would be likely to contribute to the cheapening of telegraphic communication between various portions of the Empire. He later says that the problem of the Empire was largely one of communication, and the more the Government was able to improve communication the better it would be. I am sure these words will find an echo in the minds of members of this Council. Under the heading of working of the system he
states that each Government would pay for the maintenance of the station which it erected and would be credited with the receipts of traffic which its own station handled. The receipts would not be pooled. The revenue would be divided on the same principle as the through telegraph traffic revenue was divided between the various countries. Later on, under the heading of cost and remuneration, after stating that the annual expenditure for working six stations, allowing for the redemption of capital in 18 years, interest and management expenses would be about £106,000 per annum, the Postmaster-General went on to say that "the revenue must naturally depend upon the rates charged for traffic and on the amount of traffic obtained, but it would be impossible to form an estimate of revenue until it had been decided what the rates were to be. If they were able to secure enough traffic to enable the stations to work 20 hours a day and if they were able to carry the traffic at a speed of 20 words a minute duplex, if one-third of their traffic was unpaid, that was to say, Government traffic, and if one third was Press traffic, on these terms this system would be remunerative, indeed, quite profitable, and allowing for a considerable reduction of rates. If they were not able to keep the stations employed 20 hours a day or if any of the other of these conditions were not fulfilled, then, of course, the financial results would be modified accordingly." And he goes on to say that "even if it were not remunerative the Government thought it advisable to erect stations if only for strategical reasons." Therefore, Sir, it will be seen from the extracts I have read from the speech of the Postmaster General that although he naturally feels the importance of the erection of general wireless stations throughout the Empire for strategic and defensive purposes, he puts this matter before the House of Commons, the erection of these stations, as being also likely to turn out a solid and profitable business proposition; in fact, as your Excellency will have noted, he goes so far as to say that he believes a profit can be assured even allowing for Government traffic, which has to be carried gratis, and for Press traffic, which is carried at reduced rates, and also allowing for a reduction in the rates charged for telegraphic communication. So far then, Sir, one may say that the statement of the Postmaster-General
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 67
is of an exceedingly satisfactory character, because one can hardly suppose that he would have launched out into these commercial figures and calculations unless he were satisfied after his deliberations with the three bodies I have mentioned, two of which, as your Excellency will have noted, were a Sub-Committee on Imperial Defence and the Imperial Conference (which might be trusted to look after the interests of the Empire), and after taking into account their views as well as those of the other body mentioned that he was justified in putting this matter before the House of Commons as a speculation which was likely to turn out profitable. So far, as I said just now, everything would be entirely satisfactory from our point of view, but there is one point, as is indicated by the motion, upon which I would respectfully venture to suggest that it is desirable that we should express our views, and that is the point as to the date of the erection of the proposed long distance wireless telegraph station in this Colony of Hongkong. The Postmaster-General mentions in his speech certain places in regard to which apparently wireless telegraphy stations are to be erected at an early date. Those places mentioned in the speech as places at which the British Government would erect and pay for four stations are: England itself, Egypt, subject to the approval of the Egyptian Government, East Africa, and Singapore or its neighbourhood. The Postmaster-General then goes on to say that the Indian Government will erect one near the Western coast, the South African Government one in the neighbourhood of Pretoria and that the Australian Government have undertaken to erect one to connect with Singapore. He proceeds in these words, to which I desire to draw special attention: "Later, it is contemplated that stations will be erected at Hongkong and possibly in West Africa." Therefore, it is clear, as I submit, from the Postmaster-General's speech that with reasonable speed and celerity there is to be erected according to his programme a chain of wireless stations extending from England on the west to Australia on the east, and he tells us it is contemplated that a station will be erected at Hongkong, but he puts in the word "later." Now, Sir, in view of the importance of this Colony as a centre for shipping, the unofficial members of this Council are unanimous in thinking that we ought to urge upon the British Government to carry out its intention to erect a wireless station in this Colony not "later" but at so early a date that it
may be completed simultaneously with the completion of the wireless telegraphy station to be erected in, or in the neighbourhood of, Singapore. We consider that this is a matter of importance in regard to which this Colony may fairly claim from the amount of shipping which passes through it―it being, as your Excellency knows, the first port in the world with regard to tonnage―we consider it advisable that this Colony should not lag behind Singapore in the race, and we respectfully urge that it should receive the same treatment as Singapore, and that at the same time as Singapore is linked with England this Colony should also be linked with England. That, Sir, is the object of bringing forward this motion before this Council. The unofficial members desire that in this very important matter there should be no question of postponement or delay. They consider that now we have got Mr. Herbert Samuel's statement in the House of Commons, now that for the first time one has something definite and tangible to lay hold of in this matter, now when we see that it is contemplated by the British Government to erect apparently out of the Post Office vote these various stations throughout the Empire, ultimately coming to Hongkong, we think that now we should press this matter on and we regard it as of the utmost importance for commercial purposes that we should be linked up with Singapore. In case it should have escaped the attention of any hon. member I would point out that the Marconi Company has entered into very important and somewhat stringent guarantees as to the efficiency of its system, because it appears, first of all, from the statement of the Postmaster-General that the Marconi Company does not stipulate at all for anything to be paid for their stations until they have been erected and shown they were capable of maintaining the service, and later on the Postmaster-General says the Company had undertaken in this contract to give an efficient and continuous service capable of dealing with commercial traffic day and night at a speed duplex of 20 words a minute, at a speed simplex of 50 words per minute. And, Sir, with regard to the distance which messages are to be carried, the test, as the Postmaster-General says, is a test for 2,000 miles. Therefore, I think it is quite clear that in view of the stringent
68 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
conditions which the Marconi Company have agreed to, as stated by the Postmaster-General, we may take it that for their own protection and in order that they may get the payment bargained for they will take care that a very efficient service is put up capable of complying with that test and carrying messages to a distance of 2,000 miles. I think there should be no delay in this matter. We should be put in the same position as Singapore and in that way we shall be able to communicate by wireless readily and easily with England and all these other places on the route of this chain of wireless telegraphy. We would venture to hope that your Excellency and the official members of this Council are equally anxious with us that Hongkong should be included in this effective chain of wireless telegraphy. I will only say a few words more, and that is with reference to communicating with shipping. On that point I have consulted with a gentleman who has a knowledge of this subject of wireless telegraphy, and I understand that even if you have a high power station you can by either tuning or slackening, or whatever the correct technical term may be, receive messages from shipping which are only working with a force of one and a half kilowats, and I am told that apparatus can be supplied which will enable you to communicate with shipping, and which apparatus can be used in connection with the motion force of a high power station, which class of station, of course, will be required to send a message a distance of 2,000 miles.
The motion was in the following terms:
That this Council has read with pleasure the statement of the Postmaster-General, made in the House of Commons, on the 7th of August, 1912, to the effect that it is the intention of the British Government to erect, at its own cost, a £60,000 Wireless Telegraph Station in Hongkong and that such Station is to be used for the transmission of commercial cables, but that this Council regrets to learn from the statement that the erection of such a Station is to be postponed till a later date, and that this Council begs to most respectfully urge upon the British Government the desirability of such a Station being erected in Hongkong at the same time as the Singapore Station.
HON. MR. ROSS―Sir, the motion which has just been made by my hon. and learned friend is
one which commends itself strongly to me, and I think to all the other unofficial members. Wireless telegraphy is now a recognised means of communication, not only between ships and ports, but also as an alternative to cables. I do not wish to decry the valuable services which have been rendered to this Colony by the Cable Companies, for they are indisputable, but I think most of us are agreed that their cable charges are much too high, and if, therefore, this high power station was only erected for the purpose of reducing the cable charges it would be well worth it. (Applause.) But, Sir, in view of the chain of wireless stations which, we are told, are shortly to be erected to connect up the various portions of the Empire, it seems to me that, having regard to the very important and outlying position of this Colony, there should be no delay in forging the link which is to bind us to that chain. No doubt it is a wise precaution to proceed cautiously, and very probably the "last word" has not yet been said in the matter of wireless telegraphy, but in these days of invention and rapid change the Colony of Hongkong cannot afford to stand still or wait. Already we lag behind. Witness the wireless stations in Japan and the Philippines, and even in parts of the neighbouring Republic of China, whilst Hongkong, probably the greatest, or one of the greatest shipping ports in the world, is, in the matter of wireless communication, dependent upon the courtesy or good offices of one of His Majesty's ships. It is not due to any lack of enterprise on the part of the commercial community that a wireless station has not already been established here, for we have to wait the pleasure of the Home Government in this matter, and while I do not think any of us doubt the wisdom of the decision arrived at by the Imperial Conference, that all wireless stations should be State controlled, I think that this Council should urge to the utmost of its endeavours that the matter be not further delayed. Sir, I beg to second the motion made by my hon. and learned friend.
HIS EXCELLENCY―Gentlemen, I am sure we would all like to see Hongkong participating in any large scheme of radio-telegraphic communication throughout the Empire, but I think you must agree with me that the Government cannot accept this resolution. In the first
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 69
place, the Government has no information whatever about this particular scheme―which is an Imperial scheme ― referred to in the resolution. In the second place, the speech to which the hon. mover has referred is only the beginning of the debate in the House of Commons, and we do not even know whether the scheme has been adopted. In the third place, before this Government can commit itself to any such scheme it would naturally like to know some of the details as to participation in the cost or otherwise, cost of maintenance and participation in the revenue derived from the station. We have no information about any of these matters, and all I can do is to ask the Secretary of State for information about this scheme, to forward the resolution and the speeches of the hon. unofficial members who moved and seconded it, and to say they are very desirous that Hongkong should not be left out of the scheme. I think that if I do that the object with which the hon. members have moved and seconded this resolution will be met. As I do not wish to vote against the resolution, I suggest to the hon. members that they withdraw it. I would merely add, with reference to what the hon. mover said at the end of his speech about a local commercial station, that if he turns to his estimates he will find that we have provided a sum for that particular purpose, but that is a different subject altogether.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―With reference to that last point, we want to be in the long distance chain. I am speaking for myself, personally, as it occurs to me at the moment, and I can conceive, Sir, that it might even be a stumbling block in the way of obtaining something better hereafter if we started with a low power station to begin with. With reference to what has fallen from your Excellency as to dividing on this question, I think I should ask my unofficial colleagues present if they support me in what I have said, and with that I would be satisfied not to press the resolution to a division.
SIR KAI HO KAI―For myself, I am entirely in sympathy with the mover and seconder of the resolution, but if they consent to withdraw it I wish to express my own personal opinion in the matter. I entirely support it.
HON. MR. WEI―I am in favour of the resolution.
HON. MR. BONNAR―I am quite in accord with the sentiments expressed by my hon. and learned friend, but if, as your Excellency has promised, the views expressed in the resolution will be conveyed to the Secretary of State, I think the point will be met.
HON. MR. POLLOCK ― I withdraw the resolution.
HIS EXCELLENCY ― I will do what I promised to do.
Police Matters
THE HON. MR. H. E. POLLOCK asked the following questions standing in his name:―
1. How many cases of larcenies in dwelling houses have been reported to the Police between the 1st June and the 31st August this year and from what districts; in how many cases have arrests been made and how many convictions have been obtained; in how many instances has the property stolen been recovered; what is the total estimated value of the property lost; and how do the facts compare with last year's records of larcenies in dwelling-houses during the same period?
2. With reference to the man who entered Beaconsfield Arcade at night and who subsequently escaped from the Government Civil Hospital, will the Government state whether the man, at the time of his escape, was in charge of any, and, if so, what Constable, and what is his name and number? Has such Constable received any, and, if so, what punishment in respect of the escape of his prisoner? If not, why not? Will the Government also state whether, at the time of his admittance to the Hospital, the man had on handcuffs and/or other fetters, and, if so, whether such handcuffs or other fetters were either removed or loosened prior to his escape, and, if so, by whose orders? What complaint was the man suffering from when admitted into Hospital? What information has the Government to lay before the Council as to the method in which the man succeeded in making his escape?
3. What steps, if any, are taken by any and what Government Department, and how often, for testing the efficiency of the brakes on trucks, trollies and handcarts?
70 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, replying to question No. 1, said:―The number of larcenies in dwelling houses reported to the Police between the 1st June and the 31st August this year was one hundred and twelve. During the corresponding period in 1911 the number was eighty-seven. In 7 cases arrests were made, 16 persons being arrested, of whom 7 were convicted and 9 discharged. The figures in 1911 were 7 cases and 9 persons arrested, of whom 8 were convicted and 1 discharged. The value of the property alleged to have been stolen was $20,398.80 this year as against $14,625.40 in 1911. The value of the property recovered this year was $1,878.77 as against $713.70 in 1911. The number of cases reported from each district and the number of arrests, convictions and discharges in each district are as follows for the years 1911 and 1912:―
handcuffed when sent to hospital and had the handcuffs on at the time of his escape. He was suffering from bruises and the loss of several teeth. He escaped through a bath-room window and down a water pipe. There is no reason to believe that the Chinese Constable connived at his escape.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, replying to question No. 3, said―The brakes are examined at the time of issue and renewal of licence by the Inspector of Vehicles in the Central District and by the Inspectors in charge in the case of other districts.
HON. MR. POLLOCK ― With regard to question 2, I asked if the handcuffs were either removed or loosened. The latter part does not seem to have been answered.
1911.
Cases.
Arrests.
Cases.
Convictio
HIS EXCELLENCY ― They were not Discharge
removed or loosened.
Criminal Sessions Law Amendment
Central Station..................... 34 3 4 0 No 2 Station......................... 23 1 1 0 No. 7 Station........................ 10 2 2 1 Water Police Station ............ 7 0 0 0 Yaumati Station ................... 3 0 0 0 Hunghom Station................. 3 0 0 0 Sham Shui Po Station .......... 1 0 0 0 Shaukiwan Station ............... 2 0 0 0 Gough Hill Station............... 4 1 1 0
Total ................... 87 7 8 1
1912.
Central Station..................... 55 3 5 6 No. 2 Station........................ 8 2 0 3 No. 7 Station........................ 17 2 2 0 Water Police Station ............ 7 0 0 0 Yaumati Station ................... 8 0 0 0 Hunghom Station................. 4 0 0 0 Sham Shui Po Station .......... 0 0 0 0 Shaukiwan Station ............... 8 0 0 0 Gough Hill Station............... 5 0 0 0
Total ................... 112 7 7 9
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, replying to question No. 2, said―The man was in charge of Chinese Constable 393 Wong Kuan, who was subsequently prosecuted before the Magistrate for neglect of duty and fined $25. The man was
Ordinance, 1912
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the first reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Criminal Sessions." In doing so he said―The object of this Bill is bound up to some extent with the Bill which has been recently passed amending the constitution of the Full Court. The learned judge who will assist the Supreme Court by coming from Shanghai will, it is found, most conveniently, come here in the months of January and July, and in consequence it is proposed that there should not be Criminal Sessions during those two months in order that the time of the Supreme Court may be occupied during those two months by the ordinary Supreme Court appeals. There is nothing really further to say with regard to the Bill at this stage.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a first time.
Vehicles and Traffic Regulation
Ordinance, 1912
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the first reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to consolidate and amend the law with respect to vehicles and traffic." In doing so
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 71
he said―As hon. members will see, Sir, the present law relating to this matter is contained in a variety of enactments, and it seems best that they should all be consolidated in one for the convenience, not only of lawyers, but for the public. This Bill, I think, if passed, will be an advantageous measure, which, of course, will have to be supplemented by regulations giving effect to those details which are necessary in legislation of this kind.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a first time.
Merchant Shipping Amendment
Ordinance, 1912
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the first reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to amend the Merchant Shipping Ordinance, 1912." In doing so he said ― This Bill is designed to remove a difficulty which exists in the present law with regard to the licensing of non-British river steamers. At one time the word "British" was inserted in this law, and owing to the inserting of that word it was probably not legal to license under this section, which has now been amended, river steamers except of British nationality. And I may here say that these licences for river steamers are advantageous, as they give great facilities for carrying on this river traffic larger numbers of passengers, and less severe restrictions than are imposed in the case of ocean-going or sea-going vessels. Comparatively recently certain international arrangements have been entered into between His Majesty's Government and the Governments of other Powers, particularly France, and owing to these amicable negotiations the necessity, or, indeed, any particular object in the restrictions being made which were made in the previous Bill, is now removed, and in consequence this Bill proposes to throw open these special licences to steamers besides those of British nationality.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a first time.
Supplementary Appropriation Bill
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY moved the first reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to authorize the appropriation of a further supplementary sum of twenty-eight thousand six
hundred dollars and forty-five cents, to defray the charges of the year 1911."
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and the Bill was read a first time.
THE ESTIMATES.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY moved the first reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to apply a sum not exceeding seven million one hundred and sixteen thousand four hundred and fifty-four dollars to the Public Service of the year 1913."
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded. The Expenditure estimates are as follows:―
Governor ........................................... $ 83,078 Colonial Secretary's Department and Legislature, ................................... 79,672 Colonial Secretary's Department Special Expenditure ...................... 1,244 Registrar-General's Department ........ 43,736 Audit Department.............................. 31,024 Audit Department Special Expenditure................................... 50 Treasury ............................................ 64,084 Harbour Master's Department ........... 232,972 Harbour Master's Department Special Expenditure................................... 250 Observatory....................................... 21,477 Observatory Special Expenditure ...... 2,114 Miscellaneous Services ..................... 181,473 Judicial and Legal Departments. ....... 257,484 Judicial and Legal Departments Special Expenditure ...................... 800 Police and Prison Departments.......... 858,742 Police and Prison Departments Special Expenditure ...................... 5,500 Medical Departments ........................ 238,489 Medical Departments Special Expenditure................................... 560 Sanitary Department.......................... 337,346 Sanitary Department Special Expenditure................................... 13,275 Botanical & Forestry Department...... 44,192 Education .......................................... 276,636 Education Special Expenditure.......... 11,850 Military Expenditure:―
Volunteers ..................................... 42,324 Volunteers Special Expenditure .... 5,018
72 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
Sales $150,000 and the chief decreases in
Public Works:―
Public Works Department............ 378,886 Public Works Department Special
Expenditure............................. 1,765 Public Works Recurrent............... 435,600 Public Works Extraordinary ........ 1,693,300
Post Office....................................... 439,343 Kowloon-Canton Railway ............... 256,672 Charge on account of Public Debt ... 752,323 Pensions........................................... 300,800 Charitable Services.......................... 24,375
Total ........................... $7,116,454
HIS EXCELLENCY said: ― Gentlemen, ― Before dealing with the Estimates for next year which have just been laid on the table, I propose to give you a brief summary of the present financial position of the Colony and of the position we anticipate as a result of this year's working.
The Financial Situation
You will remember that when the Estimates for 1912 were presented to you last Autumn it was expected that the balance of Assets over Liabilities on 31st December, 1911, would amount to $1,452,379. This estimate was more than realised, the sum actually brought to account being $1,826,978. According to the revised figure for 1912 ordinary and extraordinary revenue is expected, owing to increases in rates, stamp duties and land sales, to yield $8,049,153 or $371,665 more than was estimated. Moreover, a saving of $316,328 principally on account of exchange is anticipated on the total Expenditure which was originally estimated at $7,852,678. These estimates if realised will result in a surplus on 31st December, 1912, of $512,803 and this sum added to the balance of Assets accrued on 31st December, 1911, will give a balance of Assets on 31st December, 1912, increased to $2,339,782.
Estimates of Revenue, 1913
The Estimates of Revenue for the coming year show a net increase of $174,372 over those approved for the current year. The principal increases occur in the items Assessed Taxes $128,000, Stamp Duties $180,000 and Land
Opium Contribution $130,000, Kowloon Canton Railway $120,000 and Liquor Duties $25,000. Explanations of the increases will be found in the footnotes. As regards the Opium Contribution, you will remember that His Majesty's Government made a grant to this Colony towards the loss of revenue caused by the restriction of the trade in opium of £9,000 in respect of the year 1910-11 and two further grants of £12,000 in respect of the years 1911- 12 and 1912-13. The contribution, as you know, was limited to 3 years, and I think you will agree that His Majesty's Government have dealt liberally with the Colony in the matter.
The Estimate of Revenue from the Opium Farm remains at the same figure as in the current year. The contract for the farm expires at the end of February next and the Government propose to extend the term to the present contractors for one year from the 1st of March next at the same rental but subject to a considerable diminution in the number of chests which the farmer may boil for local consumption or for export and to certain other restrictions aimed at the prevention of smuggling. These will be embodied in a Bill which will in due course be introduced. You are all aware that the Powers represented at The Hague Opium Convention agreed to certain resolutions regarding the restriction of the consumption of opium. Pending consideration of what steps it is necessary to take to give effect to the Convention when ratified it is not possible for this Government to commit themselves at present to the letting of the farm for a longer term.
I will refer to the decrease in railway receipts in a later paragraph.
Estimates of Expenditure, 1913
The Estimates of Expenditure for next year show a nett increase of $692,228 over those approved for the current year.
The principal items of increase to which I would draw your attention are as follows:―
Miscellaneous Services: ― An addition of $9,833 has been made to the item printing and binding, of which $7,300 is in connection with the revision of the Ordinances.
Supreme Court:―$3,273 has been provided for the salary of the Appeal Judge.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 73
Police:―The nett increase of $103,935 is principally due to additions to the establishment, the necessity for which I will briefly explain. An addition, authorised in June last, is made of 20 European Constables for duty in Hongkong and Kowloon, and the disturbed state of the neighbouring provinces which was exemplified by the recent attack on Cheung Chau Police Station has emphasized the necessity for a large addition to the force in the New Territories. The policing of the Territories is now being done to a large extent by Military patrols. This arrangement causes much inconvenience and expense to the Military Authorities and can only of course be regarded as a temporary expedient. For this service I have therefore included provision for 1 Probationer, 1 European Inspector, 10 European Constables and 75 Indian Constables. I have also deemed it indispensable to strengthen the patrol by water by the addition of a steam launch carrying a motor pinnace and of a motor launch, for which crews are provided. I will shortly ask the Council to vote a supplementary sum to cover the cost of this new launch which the Government has recently acquired locally at a reasonable cost. The motor launch, for which $5,000 is included under Special Expenditure, is designed to provide a more efficient patrol for the harbour by night. House allowances to the Indian Contingent have been increased by $1,200 in order to bring the proportion of the Contingent in enjoyment of the privilege up to 10 per cent. A sum of $1,704 is provided for house allowance to 10 per cent. of the Chinese Contingent.
The principal items of increase under "Other Charges" are consequential upon the above additions to the establishment.
I take this opportunity of expressing on behalf of the Government, and, I am sure, of the Colony generally, our warm thanks to the Military Authorities for the ungrudging manner in which they have come to our assistance in this matter, and to the officers and men of the various detachments who have since June last safe-guarded and are still guarding life and property in the New Territories under conditions which must have entailed, and must still entail, no little discomfort and even hardship.
Prison:―Subsistence of Prisoners shows an increase of $3,000, which is due to an increase in the number of prisoners.
Medical Departments:―For the support of Lunatics abroad $5,000 has been entered under Other Charges, Lunatic Asylums. Of this amount $3,600 is an annual grant for three years commencing from 1st January, 1913, to the John C. Kerr Refuge for the Insane at Canton and $1,400 for the maintenance of non-Chinese lunatics abroad. The Government's policy with regard to Lunatics was explained to this Council by Sir Frederick Lugard at the meeting held on 7th March of this year, and for an explanation of these estimates I would refer Honourable Members to the Hansard of that date.
Sanitary Department:―It has been decided on the recommendation of the Sanitary Board to carry out departmentally the scavenging of the City and Hill District on the expiration of the present contract at the end of 1912. This arrangement will effect a nett saving of $4,001, as shown in Appendix I., and will, it is anticipated, result in greatly increased efficiency in the work of scavenging. The Head of the Sanitary Department, the Medical Officer of Health and the Colonial Veterinary Surgeon, who assisted Mr. Wolfe in the organization, and the Sanitary Board, are to be congratulated on evolving this very desirable scheme, which I confidently anticipate will prove entirely successful. Under Special Expenditure, $10,000 has been inserted to permit of a continuance of the policy of removal of ceilings as a plague preventive measure.
Education:―$3,927 has been provided for the salary of a Head Master for Yaumati English School. This post was temporarily abandoned towards the end of 1910 in connection with certain proposals made by the Director of Education for strengthening Queen's College as a feeder to the University and the Headmaster was transferred to the former institution. Since then an additional storey has been added to the school building, which now provides accommodation for 350 pupils. The average attendance of the school for the last two years has been 200 pupils, and it is confidently expected that early next year there will be a large addition to the present attendance roll.
The sub-head Capitation Grants shows an increase of $6,672, of which $2,000 is due to an increase anticipated in the attendance at Ellis Kadoorie School on
74 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
the completion of its buildings, $1,500 to the growing attendance at St. Joseph's College and the remainder to the normal growth in the attendance at schools generally. Under Special Expenditure $10,000 has been provided as a building grant for the Diocesan Girls' School at Kowloon under section 42 of the Grant Code.
Military Expenditure: ― The Defence Contribution to the Imperial Government shows an increase of $56,300. The calculation of this item is shown in Appendix III.
Under Volunteers $2,500 has been provided for Uniform for the Volunteer Reserve and $5,000 has been entered under Special Expenditure for 12 Mk. IV. tripods and boxes for machine guns to replace mountings which have become obsolete.
Public Works Department: ― The nett increase of $24,928 is chiefly due to the cost of the staff required for the Second Section of Tytam Tuk Waterworks and to provision for three additional Land Surveyors on the temporary establishment who are required to cope with extensive surveys now in hand. The existing maps have been found to be unreliable and consequently a complete survey of the whole city and of other parts of the Colony where developments are occurring has been undertaken.
Charge on account of Public Debt:―The increase of $26,160 is due to provision of interest on £150,000, approximately the amount paid for resumption of land for the Railway terminus.
Pensions:―There is an increase of $26,900 under this Head due principally to several large pensions having been granted during the last 12 months.
Public Works Extraordinary, 1913
The Public Works Extraordinary Estimates for next year have been sub-divided under the headings "Hongkong," "Kowloon" and "New Territories," so that it may be more easy to discern what amount is being expended in each of these districts.
Hongkong:―Dealing first with the estimates
for Hongkong it will be observed that in the case of item 9, Sanitary Inspectors' Offices, Western District,―the estimated cost has been increased from $7,000 to $11,500. The reason of this is that more extensive accommodation is required for the Sanitary Department than was orginally anticipated.
A sum of $100,000 (Item 10) has been inserted for the construction of quarters for the accommodation of Subordinate Officers. The building of quarters for which a moderate rental will be charged for Overseers in the Public Works Department and for Sanitary Inspectors has been deferred from time to time owing to lack of funds. It is now proposed to build quarters for the whole of these officers. Married quarters will be taken in hand first and it is anticipated that the sum provided will allow of substantial progress being made with the construction of 18 flats for married officers.
A sum of $100,000 (Item 11) has been provided for a radiotelegraphic installation. As at present advised the Government consider that all that is necessary is a station for ship to shore communication with a range of not less than 600 miles under favourable conditions. A much more powerful station has, I know, been suggested. But I would remind you that a High Power Station for strategic purposes is the concern of His Majesty's Government; that a Medium Power Station for purposes of communication with land stations in competition with the Cable Companies is really a separate proposal; and that what this Port really requires is the means of ship to shore communication. An ships carry only installations of limited range it does not seem necessary to do more than to provide a station capable of ensuring communication with ships, making due allowance for possible increase in range of the latter's installations. I have asked the Secretary of State for advice as to what in these circumstances the nature of the installation here should be and I will inform the Council in due course of the result.
Under item 12, a sum of $2,300 has been inserted for the erection of a temporary building for the survey staff. It has been found necessary to increase the staff for carrying out the extensive surveys now in hand, and the accommodation available in the existing building is insufficient.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 75
Under item 13, provision is made for the extension of the stables adjoining No. 1 Police Station which are now utilised for the housing of bullocks belonging to the Sanitary Department. Such extension is necessary, because, as I have already explained, it is intended to carry out the scavenging of the City departmentally instead of by contract, as hitherto.
Under "Public Latrines and Urinals," (Item 14) the estimate for the first item has been increased from $3,500 to $5,000. It was originally intended to construct an ordinary latrine above ground, but, in consequence of the opposition raised by the owners and occupiers of houses in the immediate neighbourhood, it is now proposed to construct an underground trough closet which entails considerable extra expense.
In the case of the second item, the estimate has been increased from $6,500 to $10,500. The accommodation has been increased, and various improvements have been made in the design of the structure with a view to enabling it to be kept in a thoroughly sanitary state.
The last two items for the provision of accommodation of this nature at Pottinger Street and in Cross Lane, Wanchai, have been inserted on the representation of the Sanitary Board.
Under "Roads and Streets" (Item 15) provision has been made for continuing the work for which Financial Minute No. 36 was recently taken. The work is in connection with the conversion of old Farm Lots at Wongneichong into Inland Lots with a view to the development of this locality as a residential area.
The extension of Belcher Street past Marine Lots 266-8 is rendered necessary by the erection of buildings on these lots which have hitherto been unoccupied except for storage purposes.
In order to provide access to some areas which are suitable for building purposes, and with regard to which an enquiry has already been received, it is considered advisable to proceed with the construction of a portion of a road which will ultimately extend from Victoria Gap to High West Gap.
Under the heading "Training Nullahs," provision has been made for a continuation of
the work at present in progress at Shaukiwan Village. It was intended that the nullah at No. 11 Bridge should be begun during the current year, but difficulties have arisen with regard to some land which is at present leased and which interferes with the carrying out of the work.
The second item is in connection with Financial Minute No. 36, allusion to which has already been made under the heading "Roads and Streets."
The only other item of a special nature provides for an extension of the training works in the valley to the South of Magazine Gap. This forms a continuation of the work carried out during 1911, to which the Military Authorities subscribed. It is hoped that some financial assistance will also be obtained from them in connection with next year's programme.
There are a number of new items under the heading "Miscellaneous." The first is "Public Bathing Places," (Item 21), regarding which a resolution was brought forward in Legislative Council by the Hon. Mr. E. Osborne in May last and adopted by Council. The estimate of $2,000 provides for the erection of small sheds on beaches near the eastern and western ends of the City.
Provision is made under Items 22 and 23 for the construction of permanent quarters for the sextons at Mount Caroline and Kailungwan Cemeteries. Hitherto the men performing these duties have been housed in matsheds, and it is considered desirable to provide them with accommodation of a more permanent and sanitary description. A small sum is also provided for improving the approach road to Mount Caroline Cemetery.
Under Item 24, provision is made for the installation of electric lights and fans in Nos. 5, 7 and 8 Police Stations and of electric fans in No. 2. These installations will supersede gas for lighting purposes and the provision of fans will enable punkahs to be dispensed with.
Provision has been made for compensation and resumptions to the extent of
76 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
$30,000 under the heading "Hongkong" (Item 27) and $5,000 under "Kowloon" (Item 47), or a total of $35,000 as compared with $25,000 in last year's estimates. The amount has been increased with a view to the resumption of certain riding floors at the ends of private streets. These riding floors prevent the free circulation of air. Their ultimate removal was contemplated under Section 185 of the Public Health and Buildings Ordinance which prohibits the erection or re-erection of any such structures, except with the consent of the Governor-in Council.
Under "Water Works," a sum of $50,000 has been provided for the construction of an additional service reservoir and filter beds at West Point. These are necessary to enable water from Tytam to be filtered and distributed to the Western District of the City, which has, up to recent years, been principally supplied from Pokfulam. The water from Pokfulam has now to be conserved in great measure for the supply of the High Level and Hill Districts.
A sum of $250,000 has been provided for the second section of the Tytam Tuk Scheme, for which a contract is about to be let.
Kowloon.―Turning now to Kowloon, the estimated cost of extensions in connection with the Royal Observatory (Item 34), has been increased from $2,000 to $6,700. I have gone into this matter on the spot and I consider the extensions necessary.
The policy of providing quarters for Overseers and Sanitary Inspectors, to which allusion has already been made, will extend to Kowloon also, and a sum of $32,000 is entered in the Estimates (Item 35) for this purpose.
Item 36 provides for certain additions to the Hunghom Police Station which are necessary.
Under "Miscellaneous" the first item requiring explanation is No. 43 "Purchase of portion of K.I.L. 1132, $18,000." It is proposed to resume a portion of this lot, containing a substantial dwelling house, for quarters for the Manager of the Railway; and it is considered advisable to effect the resumption of the entire lot as the remainder of it can be conveniently utilized in conjunction with an area of Crown land adjoining Jordan Road. The sum provided
will enable this to be done. The resumption for railway purposes will be defrayed from railway funds.
New Territories.―With regard to the New Territories, provision is made for the erection of a Police Station at Cheung Chau Island (Item 48). The recent raid on the building at present occupied for Police purposes has drawn attention to its unsuitability, and it is proposed to erect a station on a site which will admit of better control over the island and the populous village which it contains.
Provision is made under item 49 for a Market at Tai O. There is no market there at present, and, as the village is one of considerable size, it is considered necessary that proper provision should be made.
Under the heading "Roads," the third item is to provide for the extension of the road at Castle Peak Bay to a point where a pier can be constructed which will admit of launches calling at any state of the tide and for the construction of the necessary pier. The provision of communication with the large villages of Pingshan, Un Long, etc., is considered of sufficient importance to justify the expenditure involved.
The there following items, (d), (e) and (f) are all in connection with the improvement of communication with the railway in the neighbourhood of Fanling. It is found that the present station is not conveniently situated in several respects and it is now proposed to establish a train-halt at a point which will admit of improved communication with Sheung Shui Village and the Golf Links.
Under the heading "Miscellaneous," the estimate for the improvement of Ap Liu Village has been increased from $28,800 to $33,600. This is almost entirely due to the increased amount of compensation which has to be paid in connection with the resumption of old buildings and sites in effecting the necessary improvements.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 77
Kowloon-Canton Railway, 1913
The earnings in 1913 of the main and branch lines of the Kowloon-Canton Railway are estimated at $319,600 or $120,000 less than the amount approved for 1912. The unrest which has prevailed in South China since the Revolution has seriously interfered with this year's earnings, and it would not be safe under present conditions to count a higher figure. On the other hand, expenditure is estimated at $256,399 or $53,699 more than the amount approved for 1912, the increase being due to a more efficient train service and to an increase in the number of locomotives and rolling stock.
The nett estimated result of next year's working is given in footnote 2 on page 117, from which it will be seen that expenditure on all accounts is estimated at $840,799 and receipts at $319,600, leaving a deficit to be met from revenue of $521,199. This figure may, however, be reduced by more favourable remittance rates for the interest and sinking fund charged than the rate at which they have been calculated.
The designs for the terminal station of the Kowloon-Canton Railway at Tsim Sha Tsui are being prepared by Mr. A. B. Hubback, Government Architect in the Federated Malay States, who has had considerable experience in work of this nature, and it is hoped to begin the construction early next year.
The Balancing of the Budget
In framing the budget for the coming year, I have estimated for an appropriation from the accumulation of surplus balances of a sum of $693,046. This amount is approximately equal to the combined provision made for the Typhoon Refuge ($450,000) and Tytam Tuk Section ($250,000). As regards the former work you will remember that it was arranged to finance it half out of reserves and half by means of a special assessment of Light Dues. By the end of the current year it is expected that $1,106,934 will have been expended and if the estimate of $450,000 for next year is realised, the total expenditure will by the end of that year have reached a sum of $1,556,934. The amount payable for the period out of reserves should therefore be $778,467, but owing to a succession of annual surpluses since 1909 only
the cost of the dredger purchased in 1908 for $175,000 has up to date been so charged. Therefore, if next year's estimate ($450,000) is realised the amount paid out of reserves ($625,000) will still be $153,467 behind the proportion for the period. A re-imbursement by sale of dredger, which is at present under offer to enquirers in Sydney, has also to be taken into account.
I mention these facts and figures, of course, to show that although we are drawing heavily on the reserves next year the financial situation has not become in any way unwieldy. It requires, nevertheless, very careful watching and the exercise of strict economy.
I trust that these remarks may be of some assistance to you in considering the Estimates. I would like to suggest that this year a new departure should be made. I think it would facilitate the consideration of the Estimates and the ensuing debate upon them if official and unofficial members would meet the Colonial Secretary and the Colonial Treasurer and seek from them verbally such information as they may desire. This practice is followed in other colonies, and both the Colonial Secretary and myself, who have had experience of them, can assure you that it helps to facilitate the consideration of the Estimates.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―May I ask, Sir, on what date your propose to take the second reading of this Bill?
HIS EXCELLENCY―If it is convenient to hon. members, this day fortnight.
Larceny Amendment Ordinance
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the second reading of the Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to amend the Larceny Ordinance, 1865." In doing so he said―Hon. members will see that this is a very short measure, and it is designed to provide penalties for the theft of electricity. I suppose when the ancient law relative to theft was originally promulgated that electricity was unknown. However, modern requirements require corresponding
78 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
changes in the law, and this law follows what has already been done in other countries.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
Council then went into committee to consider the Bill clause by clause.
On resuming,
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL reported that the Bill had passed through committee without amendment, and moved that it be read a third time.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a third time and passed.
Innkeepers Ordinance
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the second reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance for the further relief of Innkeepers." In doing so he said―The object of this Bill, Sir, is to give the innkeeper a greater right over property of persons who are lodging in his hotel or inn than he has at present. The idea of the Bill is to enable innkeepers really to have a substantial hold over those persons who are their guests for the debts and costs which have been incurred by the innkeepers in connection with the hotel visitors' charges, particularly the right to sell articles which may have been left on the premises by the guests at the hotel or inn. This sale, in the case of perishable goods, may be immediate, but in the case of goods which are not perishable it must take place within a certain specified time. In the second section the word "innkeeper" is defined; under the third is laid down the exact right which an innkeeper has over the property of a person who has been staying at the inn, and in connection with whom the innkeeper has some claim.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
Council then went into committee to consider the Bill clause by clause.
On resuming,
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved that the Bill be read a third time.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a third time and passed.
Magistrates' Further Amendment
Ordinance
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the second reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance further to amend the Magistrates Ordinance, 1890." In doing so he said―The object of this Bill is to give the magistrates power to inflict corporal punishment in certain cases which are expressly provided for in the Bill. The magistrates already have some power, but this Bill proposes to give them greater power, in cases in which persons commit acts of gross indecency with male persons, and also in cases in which persons commit indecent assault upon girls under the age of 13. I think, Sir that this is a power which it is very desirable to give, and it might possibly be advantageous to extend slightly the power which is given in the last part of section 2 of this Bill, and enlarge it to a case of any indecent assault on a female.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
Council then went into committee to consider the Bill clause by clause.
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL―I don't know whether it is desirable, but it has been suggested to me both inside and outside this Council that the last words of the clause "upon a girl under the age of 13" should be omitted. If the words are omitted, it gives the magistrate power to flog and give corporal punishment in all cases of indecent assault on any female. In the case of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 13, it is supposed in law that a girl has no power, even if she had the wish, to consent. But in case of a female over 13 the question of consent may possibly arise, and that no doubt was the original idea in the original law for differentiating between assault on a female and upon a female under the age of 13 years. I do not move anything myself, but only refer to it because it was mentioned to me.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―I move that the words "upon a girl under the age of 13" be omitted. I certainly think the magistrates should be empowered to inflict flogging on persons who commit assaults on females.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 79
HIS EXCELLENCY―I think the amendment might be accepted that the magistrate should order flogging at his discretion.
The amendment was agreed to.
Council then resumed.
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved that the Bill be read a third time.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a third time and passed.
Liquors Consolidation Ordinance
Amendment Ordinance
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved the second reading of the Bill entitled, "An Ordinance further to amend the Liquors Consolidation Ordinance, 1911." In doing so he said―The object of this Bill is to give revenue officers power to arrest without warrant in certain cases which are detailed in the enactments referred to in section 2 of the Bill. Revenue officers already have power of arrest in certain excise and revenue cases, and in the course of their duties they sometimes come across cases in which summary power of arrest would be of great advantage to the public. It is proposed that they should be given this power of arrest under these laws to which I have referred.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
Council then went into Committee to consider the Bill clause by clause.
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL suggested that the title of the Bill should be altered to the "Revenue Officers' power of arrest Ordinance." This was agreed to.
On Council resuming,
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL reported that the Bill had passed through committee, and moved that it be read a third time.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a third time and passed.
Post Office Amendment Ordinance
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL moved the second reading of a Bill entitled, "An Ordinance to amend the Post Office Ordinance, 1900." In doing so he said―It was found that it is
impossible to pay gratuities in the case of mails in transit, and therefore it is proposed that in this Bill this should be inserted. It was inadvertently omitted in the amending Ordinance of last year.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
Council then went into committee to consider the Bill clause by clause.
On resuming,
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL reported that the measure had passed through committee without amendment, and moved that it be read a third time.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a third time and passed.
HIS EXCELLENCY ― Council stands adjourned until the 17th inst.
FINANCE COMMITTEE.
A meeting of the Finance Committee was held afterwards ― the Colonial Secretary presiding. The following votes were passed:―
The Printing Vote
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of fifteen thousand three hundred and seventeen dollars ($15,317) in aid of the vote miscellaneous services, printing and binding.
Road Repairs
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of twelve thousand and fifty dollars ($12,050) in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Communications, Hongkong Roads and Streets:―
(a.) ― Path from Chamberlain
Road to Plantation Road,
etc. .................................. $3,650 (e.)― General Works................. 8,400
Total ........................ $12,050
80 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
Gas Lighting
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand six hundred dollars ($1,600) in aid of the vote Public Works, Recurrent, Lighting, Gas Lighting, City and Hill District.
Education Grants
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine dollars ($4,779) in aid of the vote Education, A. ― Department of Director of Education, Other Charges, Grants, Capitation Grants.
Kowloon Market
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of six hundred and seventy-seven dollars ($677) in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Buildings, Kowloon Market.
Gratuities
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of five hundred dollars ($500) in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A.― Police, Personal Emoluments, Gratuities to R. O. Hutchison, Esq., and Comdr. C. W. Beckwith, R.N.
THE CHAIRMAN explained that this was for extra services, and that the Secretary of State had approved of the payment.
Typhoon Refuge
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one hundred and thirty thousand dollars ($130,000) in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Miscellaneous, Typhoon Refuge, Mongkoktsui.
THE CHAIRMAN―H.E. the Governor says he never signed a financial minute with greater pleasure.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―Does this mean we are ahead of time?
THE CHAIRMAN―Yes.
Police Expenses
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of eight thousand four hundred dollars ($8,400) in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A.―Police, Other Charges, for the following items:―
Bedding, Mess Utensils, etc.......... $1,650 Clothing and accoutrements.......... 4,000 Coal for barracks,.......................... 200 Disinfectants ................................. 150 Furniture ....................................... 200 Good conduct rewards .................. 700 Small stores................................... 100 Subsistence of Prisoners................ 400 Transport....................................... 1,000
Total ........................ $8,400
THE CHAIRMAN stated that this was chiefly to provide for the increase to the Police force.
Dredging
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand dollars ($4,000) in aid of the vote Public Works, Recurrent, Miscellaneous, Dredging Foreshores.
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS said that an increased amount of dredging had been done.