HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 119 23RD DECEMBER, 1919.
PRESENT:―
HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR, SIR REGINALD EDWARD STUBBS, K.C.M.G.
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL F. VENTRIS, C.B. (General Officer Commanding Troops in China).
HON. MR. CLAUD SEVERN, C.M.G. (Colonial Secretary).
HON. MR. J. H. KEMP, K.C., C.B.E. (Attorney General).
HON. MR. C. MCI. MESSER, O.B.E. (Colonial Treasurer).
HON. MR. W. CHATHAM, C.M.G. (Director of Public Works).
HON. MR. E. R. HALLIFAX, O.B.E. (Secretary for Chinese Affairs).
HON. MR. E. D. C. WOLFE (Captain Superintendent of Police).
HON. MR. H. E. POLLOCK, K.C.
HON. MR. LAU CHU PAK.
HON. MR. HO FOOK.
HON. MR. R. G. SHEWAN.
HON. MR. E. V. D. PARR.
HON. MR. J. JOHNSTONE
MR. J. A. E. BULLOCK, M.B.E (Clerk of Councils).
Notice of Motion
HON. MR. H. E. POLLOCK―Sir, I beg to give notice that at the next meeting of this Council I intend to move the following two Resolutions, namely:―
1.―That, with a view to giving facilities for commercial expansion, a Committee of the Legislative Council be appointed, consisting of His Excellency the General Officer Commanding and two Official and three Unofficial Members of the Legislative Council, for the purpose of considering and reporting to this Council upon the resumption by the Hongkong Government of the Military Establishments on the
Queen's Road and the terms and conditions of such resumption.
2.―That the various Housing Schemes for different sections of the community in various districts of the Colony be now referred by the Government to the Public Works Committee of the Legislative Council, with power to that Committee to make suggestions as to the carrying out and financing of such schemes and as to the improvement of the methods of communication with the outlying districts which are sought to be developed by such schemes.
Questions by Mr. J. Johnstone
HON. MR. J. JOHNSTONE asked the following questions, the reply in each case being read by the Colonial Treasurer.
Q.― Will the Government give any information regarding the present dispute concerning the pay of certain recently arrived Europeans for the Police Force?
A. ― A number of recruits who arrived recently represented to the Government that on signing their agreements they were promised in some cases a substantial in others a 45% increase over and above the amount of salary stated in their agreements and that they were further informed that such increase if not already approved would be approved by the time they arrived in the Colony. On arrival they found that the question of the proposed increase in salaries was still under consideration and it is not settled yet.
In reply to their representations they were informed that a substantial increase had been recommended to the Secretary of State but that no payment of increased salaries could be made until the Secretary of State's approval had been received. However if any men considered that they had been brought out to the Colony owing to any misrepresentation or misunderstanding the Government was willing to repatriate them if necessary. Thereupon 12 men expressed their desire
120 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
to be repatriated, and unless there is some change in the situation in the interval which must necessarily elapse before passages can be secured the men will be given the opportunity of returning home.
Q.― In view of the recent armed robberies and acts of violence committed in the heart of the City, do the Government consider the present Police Force (including the recently joined members) of sufficient strength to adequately deal with same either (1) by increasing the number on point duty or (2) patrol duty?
A.―When all the men applied for have arrived and men who went home to serve in His Majesty's Forces return, the Police Force should be in a fair position to deal with the increase in crimes of violence. Should it however be found that the force requires further strengthening, the necessary increases will be recommended forthwith to the Secretary of State. The number of men
(1) on point duty
(2) on patrol duty are being increased as new men arrive and have been increased since the beginning of the year.
Q.― If, as seems reasonable in view of recent events, the reply to question No. 2 is in the negative, will the Government give any information regarding the steps to be taken, or which have already been taken, to increase the numbers of the European Police Force?
A.― In the Estimates for 1919, 160 Europeans were provided for. On 22nd December, 1919, the European strength was 168 exclusive of the two officers who have died within the last week. The number of European Police provided for in the 1920 Estimates is 183.
Forty-eight European Recruits have been engaged in England during the year of whom 33 have arrived and 15 have not yet arrived. Ten Recruits are at present on their way to Hongkong having just left Victoria, B.C., accompanied by 2 European Police Officers just released from military duty.
Of the 168 on the strength on 22nd December, 1919, 3 are on leave, 8 are still on Active Service and 2 are on their way from Victoria as stated above. There are 155 in the Colony at present.
In this connection it should also be noted that the Indian force has been brought up to strength being only 2 below the 1919 Estimate of 481.
There are 73 Chinese Police over and above the number provided for in the 1919 Estimates which provide for 412 Chinese Police.
Q.― In view of the greatly increased cost of living in this Colony, as elsewhere in the world, will the Government consider the advisability of a substantial increase in the pay of the N.C.O.'s and men on the European Branch of the Force?
A.― This has already been recognized and the necessary recommendations have been made. They are now awaiting the approval of the Secretary of State.
Q.― What would an increase of 30% on these men's salaries cost the Government?
A.― £7,270 including all ranks of Europeans excepting Superintendents. Q.― If the reply to question No. 4 is in the negative, will the Government consent to the formation of a committee to enquire into the matter, and
Q.― Will they appoint as members of that committee two or more civilians whose knowledge of the position by reason of their employment of considerable numbers of European workers best fits them to give authoritative advice on the subject?
A.― In view of the answer to question 4, questions 6 and 7 do not arise. I would add, however, that, if the Council agrees, the Government proposes, pending the receipt of the Secretary of State's decision, to pay all European Police Constables the present maximum salary of that grade as from the 1st of January.
Supplementary Questions
HON. MR. H.E. POLLOCK―Arising out of the answer to question one, I should like to ask a supplementary question, namely whether the Government has communicated with the Secretary of State with a view to ascertaining if any promise was made to any of these recruits of an increase of 45 per cent., or some other increase, on their arrival in the Colony.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 121
H.E. THE GOVERNOR―It is the custom in this Council for notice to be given of all questions and I must ask the hon. member to give notice of his question.
Paper
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid upon the table Sessional paper 14―Quarterly Return of Execesses on Sub-Heads met by Savings under Heads of Expenditure, for the 3rd quarter of 1919.
Finance
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid upon the table Finance Minutes Nos. 126 to 172 and moved that they be referred to the Finance Committee.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and this was agreed to.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid upon the table the report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee No. 12 and moved that it be adopted.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and this was agreed to.
Public Works Committee
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid upon the table the report of the proceedings of the Public Works Committee, No. 5.
The report of the Public Works Committee referred to the proposal to construct a public convenience at Barker road station, and was as follows:―
The Chairman submitted plans showing the levels of the roads in the vicinity of Barker Road Station and the position in which it was proposed by Government to construct the convenience. The position was on the hillside immediately to the north of the Station and below the level of Plantation Road, the roof of the proposed structure being about level with the road. With regard to the two sites suggested by the Sub Committee of the Sanitary Board in their report dated the 14th August, 1919, he explained that, owing to their distance from the Station and the steepness of Plantation
Road, it was extremely improbable that the existing nuisance would be remedied if the convenience were located on either of them. He mentioned that trough-closets existed in several parts of the City, in proximity to houses of a superior class, occupied by Europeans, and no complaint with regard to these had reached him.
Mr. Alabaster stated that he had not realized, from the plan submitted to the Sanitary Board, that the site proposed by the Government was in the position which had been explained. He therefore withdrew his opposition to the proposal.
It was unanimously agreed to recommend that the construction of the convenience in the position proposed by Government be proceeded with.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, having regard to the report of the Public Works Committee, moved the resolution which was before the Council at its previous meeting, that the erection of the latrine on the site mentioned in the report be approved.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded and the motion was carried.
Increase in Rates
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY moved the following resolution, under section 31 (1) of the Rating Ordinance, 1901, Ordinance No. 6 of 1901:―
"Resolved by the Legislative Council that the percentages on the valuation of tenements payable as rates on the undermentioned Lots be altered from the 1st January, 1920, as follows:―
The whole of Shamshuipo, from 10 12 per cent. to 13 per cent., with the exception of the old village lots, and the New Kowloon Inland Lots Nos. 140,. 154, 162, 164, 165, 178, 181, 189, 202, and 219, which may be altered from 10 12 per cent. to 12 14 per cent.
The whole of Fuk Tsun Heung, with the exception of Kowloon Marine Lots Nos. 26, 28, and 33, from 12 14 per cent. to 13 per cent.
The Tai Hang District, from 10 12 per cent. to 13 per cent.
122 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
In moving the resolution the Colonial Secretary remarked that all the lots, with the exception of those specified, had now been supplied with fire services, which added three quarters per cent., and water service so that they were rateable at the full amount of 13 per cent. The lots where the increase was from 10 12 to 12 14 per cent. had no fire service.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and the resolution was passed.
Theatre Regulations
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid upon the table Regulations made under section six of the Places of Public Entertainment Regulation Ordinance, 1919.
Military Service Repeal Ordinance 1919
H.E. THE GOVERNOR ― The Attorney General is busy in another place and is therefore unable to move the first reading of the Bill appearing on the Orders of the Day, but this Ordinance contains nothing of a legal character at all and I think, therefore, that we can dispense with his assistance in the matter. I have explained in some remarks which I made to the Defence Force when I had the honour of inspecting them on parade, and which I caused to be published in the public Press, that it was intended to reconstitute the auxiliary forces of the Colony on a voluntary basis as before. In order that things may be arranged satisfactorily it is proposed that a new Bill should be introduced early next year and mean while steps should be taken to consider in what way it would be best to differ from the old Volunteer Ordinance. I propose to appoint a Committee for drafting this Bill. My hon. and gallant friend, Major-General Ventris, has under-taken to preside over the Committee. The Attorney-General will assist in drafting the measure and the Commandant of the Defence Force has been asked to be a member. I also propose to appoint representatives of the officers of the Defence Force and of the rank and file and the Committee will be completed by a representative of the employers of those persons who may be expected to volunteer whom I have asked the Chamber of Commerce to nominate. We may hope that a committee formed on those lines will enable us to draft the Volunteer Ordinance that will be, most
suited to the requirements of this Colony. I will now ask the Colonial Secretary to move the first reading.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY then moved the first reading of the Bill intituled "An Ordinance to repeal the Military Service Ordinance, 1917 and the General Military Service Ordinance, 1918.
The COLONIAL TREASURER seconded and the Bill was read a first time.
Objects and Reasons
The "Objects and Reasons" state:―
1.―The main object of this bill is to abolish compulsory service for local defence, the necessity for which has now passed.
2.―The bill also proposes to repeal the Ordinance which introduced compulsory enrolment for service outside the Colony.
3. ― When the bill becomes law those members of the Hongkong Defence Corps who were formerly members of the Hongkong Volunteer Force or Hongkong Volunteer Reserve will revert automatically to their former status and ranks in those bodies, but the Ordinances relating to those two bodies will require revision and it is proposed to introduce legislation for that purpose as soon as possible.
4.―Simultaneously with the coming into operation of this bill it is proposed to issue a proclamation cancelling the calling out of the Volunteer Corps for actual military service and also a proclamation cancelling the enrolment of the members of the Volunteer Reserve as members of the Volunteer Force, so that members of those two bodies will revert to their former peace status.
5.―These proclamations will take effect from and after the 31st day of December, 1919.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY then moved the suspension of the Standing Orders in order that the Bill might be carried through all its stages at one meeting.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and this was agreed to.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY moved the second reading of the Bill.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 123
H.E. THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING ― I suppose the General Officer Commanding may be expected to say a few words on a Bill of this kind. The Bill itself is nothing, but it is the future about which I wish to say a few words. I shall ask permission to add one more member to the Committee which His Excellency the Governor has outlined and that will be a member to represent the men returned from active service. I think with such a representative Committee as that we shall be able to produce regulations that will be satisfactory to everyone. The Bill will be simple enough; it is the regulations which are important. The regulations of the old Defence Corps were drawn up with great care and they were taken from the Territorial Forces regulations. They have been found very suitable and will be well suited to any Volunteer Corps whatever. At present all I am at liberty to say is that I shall recommend that the number of drills be considerably reduced and also the number of days at camp. I must not conclude without once more thanking the old Defence Corps for their magnificent services and I trust that at the first parade of the new Corps I shall see most of the same faces again with many more of the younger men who have come to the Colony since the war. There are many who have returned who are over the ages of 21 and 22 years and they will really be trained men and will not require any recruits training at all, but there are a certain number of younger men who have reached the age of 20 years since the Armistice and these are the men we wish to get in as recruits. I am quite sure they will not hang back when they see their seniors joining. I wish success to the new Corps.
The Bill was then read a second time.
Council went into Committee to consider the Bill clause by clause. The Bill passed through Committee without amendment and, upon Council resuming,
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY moved that the Bill be read a third time.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and the Bill was read a third time and passed
THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL joined the Council when the Bill was being read a second time.
A Point of Order
HON. MR. POLLOCK―Before the Council adjourns, I should like to rise on a point of order. Your Excellency made an observation just now with regard to the practice of this Council to ask for notice of questions to be put. Now, sir, I do not for one moment dispute that is so according to the general regulations of this Council, but it has been the practice of this Council in the past, and it is a well known practice in the House of Commons, for members to be allowed to ask questions arising out of answers to previous questions of which notice of motion has been given. Sir, I am not speaking without some experience of the Legislative Council of this Colony when I make these remarks. I first took my seat in this Council as Acting Attorney-General so far back as February, 1896, over 23 years ago. Since then, sir, for two-thirds of my time in the Colony I have been either an official or an unofficial member of this Council. I quite realise, sir, that some supplementary questions may be difficult to answer without notice, but I do not think, with all due deference, that applies to the supplementary question I put. It is surely quite easy for the Government to answer straight out and at once whether they did or did not communicate with the Secretary of State by telegram on this alleged offer, which, according to the recruits, was made to them when they left home, that their pay would be increased directly upon their arrival in the Colony. That was an easy question to answer and I think, sir, that in asking that supplementary question I am following the practice not only of this Council but the very well known practice which exists in the House of Commons.
H.E. THE GOVERNOR―With regard to the practice of this Council, I confess I spoke merely from my knowledge of the rules as they stand. If it has been the custom of this Council in the past to ignore those rules I submit that it is time the custom was abolished. The hon. member refers to the practice in the House of Commons. There are many things in the House of Commons we do not follow and many things we wisely do not follow and this, I think, is one of them. I have had experience of other Colonies and, in no case, to my knowledge are supplementary questions taken without notice.
124 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
A meeting of the Finance Committee was then held.
——
FINANCE COMMITTEE.
——
The Colonial Secretary presided at the meeting of the Finance Committee.
Examination Sheds
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of three thousand dollars in aid of the Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Miscellaneous, (24) Miscellaneous Works.
THE CHAIRMAN―This vote is required for the various examination sheds which have been erected on the Praya.
The vote was agreed to.
Iron Bunks
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand nine hundred and twenty-five dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A.―Police, Other Charges, Iron Bunks.
THE CHAIRMAN ― These bunks are to replace the insanitary wooden benches at the Police Station. The iron bunks, which are double bunks, cost $55 each In March 20 these were contracted for and were so successful that it was decided to construct 15 more, making 35 in all.
The vote was agreed to.
Publlc Convenience
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Buildings, Latrines and Urinals: Erection of a Latrine in Duddell Street.
THE CHAIRMAN ― The Sanitary Board made certain recommendations upon the subject of the insanitary condition of the lanes in the neighbourhood of Duddell Street, and it was decided to erect this latrine in the hope of effecting an improvement.
The vote was agreed to.
Launch Repairs
The Governor recommended the Council to
vote a sum of one thousand three hundred and twenty dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A. ― Police, Other Charges, Launches and Boats: Repairs.
The vote was agreed to.
Water Works
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of five thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Water Works, (29) Miscellaneous Water Works.
THE CHAIRMAN―Four thousand dollars of this vote are required for the excess of cost over the estimate of the new fire main at Shaukiwan East. The estimate was prepared in 1917. The cost was increased by about $500 owing to the necessity of carrying the pipe line across the bay at Shaukiwan on wooden piles and brick piers.
The vote was agreed to.
Medical Department
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of seven hundred dollars in aid of the follows votes:―
Medical Department:―
Civil Hospital, Other Charges:―
Fuel and light ........................... $600.00 Office of Health Officer of Port,
Other Charges:―
Launch: Stores ........................ 100.00 ———
Total ............................. $700.00
———
THE CHAIRMAN―The first item is due to the addition of a new ward at the Civil Hospital and to the increase in the price of coal. The launch of the Health Officer of the Port is in a bad condition and requiries a larger expenditure under the heading of stores to keep it going.
The vote was agreed to.
Salaries Allowances
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two hundred and forty thousand dollars on account of Miscellaneous Services, Special Allowance on Salaries.
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 125
THE CHAIRMAN ― This sum is for allowances made in connection with salaries. The allowances are made up of various items. The rent allowances for subordinate officers of the Service comes to $48,000. The special war allowance of 20 per cent. less ten per cent. comes to $149,000 and the special allowance of ten per cent. on salaries for the whole service to $240,000, making $437,000 in all. Two hundred thousand have already been voted leaving a balance of $237,000. The vote is for $240,000 in order to be on the right side.
The vote was agreed to.
Charitable Services
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of seven hundred dollars in aid of the vote Charitable Services, Other Charitable Allowances.
THE CHAIRMAN―Small sums have been given on a regular scale to the widows of certain subordinate members of the Service who had no claim on the Widows and Orphans Fund.
The vote was agreed to.
Miscellaneous
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of sixty-nine thousand two hundred and fifty dollars in aid of the following votes: ―
Miscellaneous Service:―
New Government Offices:―
Electric Fans and Light .... $2,400.00 Lifts Maintenance ............. 350.00 Printing and Binding:―
Miscellaneous Papers ....... 8,000.00 Ordinances, Regulations,
tions, and Reports ......... 500.00 Stationery 18,000.00 Transport of Government
Servants ........................ 40,000.00 ————
Total ............ $69,250.00
————
THE CHAIRMAN―There has been such a great increase in the cost of stationary that our estimate was quite upset. The amount for transportation is to pay for the passages of the
men returning from active service.
The vote was agreed to.
House for Indian Police
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of three hundred dollars in aid of the vote Miscellaneous Services, Purchase of the Superstructure of house No. 195, Sheung Shui, for the occupation of Indian Police.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is to buy a small house close to the Police Station at Sheung Shui to accommodate the extra Indian police.
The vote was agreed to.
Echo of the Typhoon Disaster
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of five hundred dollars on account of Charitable Services, Charitable Grant to Leung Yung.
THE CHAIRMAN―H.E. the Governor has requested me to bring this case specially to the notice of the Finance Committee. In the typhoon last August many small craft in the harbour, as is known, were destroyed. The Tung Wah hospital, out of its Emergency Fund, paid various sums to many of the poor people who lost their boats. Seven members of Leung Yeung's family and twelve of his fokis were drowned. The cost of his boat and the articles in it was estimated at no less than $12,000. The Tung Wah hospital directors decided to give $500 to the man and thought it was a case where they might ask the Government to give another $500, making $1,000 in all which would enable the man to begin his old life again as a deep sea fisherman. His Excellency wished the Committee to give the subject their unbiassed consideration and, if approved, the $500 would be paid.
The vote was agreed to.
The Road Round the Island
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of twenty-seven thousand five hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Communications, (13) Roads: (e) Tytam Gap to Shaukiwan, Improving existing road.
126 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
THE CHAIRMAN―The making of the road from Shaukiwan to Tytam Gap has been a more expensive business than was anticipated. The expenditure up to the middle of November was $33,000. A good deal of extra expense was caused by taking up the water mains and the whole surface has had to be treated with asphaltum. The estimates for the current year provided for $39,000 and the estimates for 1920 for $14,000. Practically the whole of the work will be completed this year and a balance of $27,000 is required so that the work may be pushed on and the road round the the island completed.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―When will that road be finished?
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS― Within a couple of weeks time.
The vote was agreed to.
Botanical Department
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of five hundred dollars in aid of the vote Botanical and Forestry Department, Other Charges, Brushwood Clearing.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is to repair damage caused by the typhoon.
The vote was agreed to.
More Light
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two hundred and fifty dollars in aid of the following votes:―
Imports and Exports Department, Other Charges:―
Electric Fans and Light ........ $150.00 Launch: Repairs .................... 100.00 ———
Total ...................... $250.00
———
The vote was agreed to.
Quarters for Chinese
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand two hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Buildings, (8) Taitam Tuk Pumping Station, Additional Quarters for Chinese Staff.
THE CHAIRMAN―The cost of this work for the pumping station was under estimated. More accommodation had to be provided.
The vote was agreed to.
Kowloon Railway
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two thousand nine hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-seven cents in aid of the vote Kowloon-Canton Railway, Special Expenditure, Grinding Machine for Workshop.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is a re-vote from the year previous. This particular grinding machine was not delivered until this year.
The vote was agreed to.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of thirteen thousand seven hundred dollars in aid of the following votes:―
Kowloon Canton Railway:―
Locomotive, Carriage, and
Wagon Expenses, Other
Charges:―
Coal .......................... $13,000.00
Fanling Branch Line, Other
Charges:―
Coal .......................... 700.00
—————
Total ............... $13,700.00
—————
THE CHAIRMAN ― The consumption of coal has been larger than was expected. An extra train is running each way daily and in the Fanling branch line the train is now running as a tram and more coal is used for the frequent stoppings and startings.
The vote was agreed to.
Furniture
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand seven hundred and fifty dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A. ― Police, Other Charges, Furniture, Repairs and Renewals.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is required in pursuance of the new policy of providing the necessary heavy furniture for the officers in charge df police stations, the cost not to exceed $350 per station. This will avoid the heavy expense of moving
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 127
private furniture about every time an officer is moved from one station to another and thus the money of the transport vote will be saved. The vote was agreed to.
Prison Charges
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of seven hundred and seventy-five dollars in aid of the following votes:―
Police and Prison Departments, C.―Prison, Other Charges:―
Clothing for Prisoners ................ $200.00 Executioner's Fees ...................... 50.00 Incidental Expenses ................... 250.00 Materials for Repairs and
Renewals ................................ 200.00 Photography ............................... 75.00 ———
Total ........................ $775.00
———
THE CHAIRMAN―This sum is required owing to the large increase in the number of prisoners.
The vote was agreed to.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of three thousand dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Department, C.― Prison, Other Charges, Subsistence of Prisoners.
THE CHAIRMAN―This vote is required for the same reason as the previous one. The vote was agreed to.
Pumping at Tytam Tuk
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of forty thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Recurrent, Hongkong, Water Works, (19) Maintenance of City and Hill District.
THE CHAIRMAN―This amount is almost entirely due to the fact that pumping at Tytam Tuk was commenced two months earlier than last year. It is considered desirable now to keep more water continuously in the gravitation reservoir at Tytam than formerly, and pumping was started earlier in order that that plan might be carried out. The rainfall has been considerably less this year than last. The increased expenditure on coal alone for pumping is $30,000.
The vote was agreed to.
Water Works
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand dollars in aid of the following votes:―
Public Works, Recurrent, Kowloon:― Water Works:―
(35) Maintenance of Water
Works ............................. $3,000.00 (36) Water Account (Meters
etc.).................................. 1,000.00 ————
Total ......................... $4,000.00
————
THE CHAIRMAN ― This meney is for vorious repairs to the water works at Kowloon. The maintenance charges have increased generally and there has been an increase in the consumption of water. It is estimated that the consumption in Kowloon will be forty million gallons at the end of this year. The repair work on the meters had to be held in abeyance very largely during the war.
The vote was agreed to.
Miscellaneous Public Works
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of three thousand eight hundred dollars in aid of the following votes:―
Public Works, Recurrent, New Territories:―
Miscellaneous:―
(45) Typhoon and Rain
storm Damages ...........$3,000.00
Water Works:―
(46) Maintenance of Lai
chikok .......................... 800.00
————
Total ......................$3,800.00
————
THE CHAIRMAN―Under the first heading the original estimated expenditure was $7,000. A sum of $3,500 was voted and now $3,000 is asked for.
The vote was agreed to.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two thousand six hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Recurrent, Hongkong, Buildings, (1) Maintenance of Buildings.
The vote was agreed to.
128 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of five hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Establishment, Other Charges, Incidental Expenses.
The vote was agreed to.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of eight hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Recurrent, Hongkong, Water Works, (22) Water Account, (Meters, etc.).
THE CHAIRMAN ― As I explained previously the renewals of meter parts had to stand over owing to the war. Now the work is being put in hand.
The vote was agreed to.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand two hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Miscellaneous, (24) Miscellaneous Works.
THE CHAIRMAN ― This vote comprises some small items for which no provision was made.
The vote was agreed to.
Damages Caused by the Rain
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Recurrent, Kowloon, Miscellaneous, (34) Typhoon and Rainstorm Damages.
THE CHAIRMAN―The damage to road surfaces caused by the rain was very heavy this year.
The vote was agreed to.
Drainage Works
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of three thousand five hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Kowloon, Drainage, (34) Miscellaneous Drainage Works.
THE CHAIRMAN―This expenditure has been incurred in the drainage work in connection with new buildings erected this year.
The vote was agreed to.
Lugard Road
The Governor recommended the Council to
vote a sum of six thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Communications, (13) Roads: (g) Lugard Road Extension.
THE CHAIRMAN―It has been decided to carry on the extension of Lugard Road in spite of difficulties and obstacles. It is a better road than was anticipated.
The vote was agreed to.
Boundary Stones
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of six hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Miscellaneous, (23) Boundary Stones.
The vote was agreed to.
Government Analyst
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two hundred and five dollars in aid of the vote Medical Department, B.― Hospitals and Asylums, Other Charges, Incidental Expenses.
THE CHAIRMAN ― This expense was incurred in moving certain fixtures belonging to the Government Analyst who was turned out of his quarters because those quarters were required for the extension of the Sisters' quarters at the hospital and for certain improvements. The Government paid for the removal and for re-placing the articles in the new quarters provided for the analyst
The vote was agreed to.
Passages and Bonuses
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of twelve thousand six hundred and sixty dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments. A. ― Police, Other Charges, Passages, and Bonuses in lieu of Passages.
THE CHAIRMAN―Owing to the war and the shortage of staff the pernicious system of paying bonuses to the police instead of allowing them to go on leave had to be continued in full vigour and very considerable sums were spent on bonuses instead of passages. There were also payments for some passages and this
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 129
vote is required to meet this expenditure. We are hoping that this system of paying bonuses in lieu of passages will soon come to an end.
The vote was agreed to.
Repairs to Police Launch
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four hundred and seventy-seven dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments. A. ― Police Police, Other Charges, Launches and Boats: Repairs.
THE CHAIRMAN―These are urgent repairs to No. 10 Police launch.
The vote was agreed to.
Purchase of Steam Launch
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of seven thousand five hundred dollars in aid of the vote Harbour Master's Department, Special Expenditure, Purchase of Steam Launch Blackhead.
THE CHAIRMAN―During the typhoon in August the police launch was wrecked and when the Blackhead was put up for auction by the Custodian the Government decided to bid. The launch was secured at a comparatively low price.
The vote was agreed to.
Incidentals
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two hundred and ninety-four dollars and forty-five cents in aid of the following votes:―
Education, A.―Department of Director of Education,
Other Charges:―
Incidental Expenses ................ $ 38.25 Ellis Kadoorie School:―
Prizes ....................................... 101.61 Kowloon British School:―
Incidental Expenses ................ 80.75 Victoria British School:―
Incidental Expenses ................ 73.84 ———
Total ...................... $294.45
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The vote was agreed to.
Legal Expenses
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two hundred dollars in aid of the vote Crown Solicitor's Office, Other Charges, Extra Legal Expenses.
THE CHAIRMAN―This was Counsel's fee in a difficult murder case.
The vote was agreed to.
Exhumation at Kai Lung Wan Cemetery
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand seven hundred and forty-six dollars in aid of the vote Sanitary Department, Special Expenditure, Exhumation at the Kai Lung Wan Cemetery.
THE CHAIRMAN―It was decided to carry through the work this year and the vote is short of this amount asked for.
The vote was agreed to.
Colonial Secretariat
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of seventy-five dollars in aid of the vote Colonial Secretary's Department, Other Charges, Incidental Expenses.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is the payment to a temporary clerk.
The vote was agreed to.
Shaukiwan Police Station
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of nine hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Miscellaneous, Additions and Alterations to Shaukiwan Police Station.
THE CHAIRMAN ― There was more brickwork than was estimated would be the case.
The vote was agreed to.
Furniture for "Lysholt"
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of two thousand seven hundred and fifty dollars and fifty cents
130 HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
in aid of the vote Miscellaneous Services, Furniture for "Lysholt," The Peak:―
Furniture ............................. $2,675.50 Valuers' Fee ......................... 75.00 ————
Total ...................... $2,750.50
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THE CHAIRMAN―The necessary heavy furniture in this house has been bought by the Government. Rent was being charged on it.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―I would suggest that the name of the house be changed. I do not know why the Chief Justice's official residence should be called "Lysholt."
THE CHAIRMAN―I will make a note of the suggestion.
The vote was agreed to.
New Road on the Peak
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Communications, (13) Roads: (j) Road contouring Mt. Gough from Findlay Road to Gough Hill Road.
THE CHAIRMAN ― This road is being constructed under considerable difficulties. There is a large amount of masonry work. It is a very good road passing round Mount Gough where the new Government quarters are to be built.
The vote was agreed to.
Lunatic Asylum
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand three hundred dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Buildings, (9) Lunatic Asylum, Extension.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―I have referred more than once to the Lunatic Asylum in this Committee and I will say again that it is a very bad building on an unsuitable site. One of the objects of a Lunatic Asylum is to aid the recovery of the inmates and the construction and situation of this asylum do not help towards this end.
THE CHAIRMAN―I think it is a mistake calling it a Lunatic Asylum. It is in no way pretended that it fulfils all the conditions.
HON. MR. POLLOCK―All sorts of people go in there. A man suffering from delirium tremens is taken to the asylum.
THE CHAIRMAN―I hope the time will come when we shall not need such places.
The vote was agreed to.
Deep Water Bay to Repulse Bay
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of one thousand dollars in aid of the vote Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Communications, Roads: Deep Water Bay to Tytam Tuk Road, Improvement to section from Deep Water Bay to Repulse Bay.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is due largely to the asphaltum work which had to be done.
The vote was agreed to.
New Motor Boat
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of seven thousand six hundred dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A. ― Police, Other Charges, Purchase of a Motor Boat.
THE CHAIRMAN―This is for the purchase of a new motor boat to take the place of the two old pinnaces which have been sold.
The vote was agreed to.
Police Charges
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of four thousand six hundred dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, A.―Police, Charges:―
Bedding, and Mess Utensils ...... $150.00 Clothing and Accoutrements ..... 1,285.00 Coolie Hire ................................. 75.00 Repairs: Launches and Boats .... 1,250.00 Light and Electric Fans ............. 1,375.00 Secret Service ............................ 435.00 Stationery, Newspapers and
Telegrams .............................. 30.00 ————
Total ...........................$4,600.00
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The vote was agreed to.
Fire Brigade
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of five hundred and fifty
HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. 131
dollars in aid of the vote Police and Prison Departments, B.―Fire Brigade, Other Charges: ―
Clothing ....................................... $180.00 Repairs to Engines and Plants .... 70.00 Stores ........................................... 300.00 ———
Total ........................ $550.00
———
The vote was agreed to.
Retirement of Mr. Shewan
Upon Council resuming the COLONIAL SECRETARY reported that the Finance Committee had passed the votes Nos. 126 to 172 inclusive and he moved that the votes of the Committee be approved by the Council.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and the motion was carried.
H.E. T HE GOVERNOR―This business concludes the last meeting of the year and it only remains for me to wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year, but, in addition to that, I desire to call your attention to one fact that is that the Hon. Mr. Shewan, who has been a member of the Council on and off for a considerable period, will leave us at the end of the year. I have, unfortunately, not had much personal experience of Mr. Shewan's assistance as I have only been a short time in the Colony but I have noticed his name appearing with pleasant frequency in the reports of earlier debates and feel how much my
predecessors must have enjoyed his breezy and vigorous criticism. I can only regret that I am denied that pleasure in future. I would like, on behalf of my predecessors and the Government, to thank Mr. Shewan for his assistance.
HON. MR. SHEWAN―I thank you for the very kind remarks about myself. I am retiring because I feel, at my age, I should give way and make room for younger and better men. I do not want it to be said of me that "unheeded lags the veteran on the stage." I have unbounded faith in the future of Hongkong and I am sure under the present rule it will go on and prosper from year to year and age to age. There is only one suggestion I would like to make and that is that the Government of Hongkong, or the Government at Home, might give some substantial help to the Chinese authorities to complete the railway from Hankow to Canton. It would be a very great advantage to both Canton and Hongkong if this was done. As for myself I shall be no loss to the Council for I know many young Elishas in the Colony whom the mantle of Elijah will fit much better than it has fitted me. As this is the last time I shall speak at this Council table I pray that the Council in all its deliberations and decisions may be guided by a spirit of love and sympathy for the people of Hongkong, especially for the poor people, the poor, struggling and down trodden who have so very few friends in the seats of the mighty.
Council then adjourned sine die.
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