7
to
any
Gidal Mand, and requesting me to report whether there would be objection in the colony to legislation having for its object.
jst
A prohibition of the use
of
Gidal Mand as Ballast
2nd The imposition of a penalty on vessels entering the Port with Tidal Mud as Ballast.
In reply I have the honor to enclose for the information of Your Lordship the reports which I have called for on the subject from the Colonial Surgeon and Harbor Master
and to acquaint Your Lordship in reference thereto that I agree with the suggestion of the former to defer taking any steps for actual legislation till specific information shall have been given by the Health Officer of the Port in regard to each vessel arriving during the present year. As but few vessels ever visit Hong Kong with mud ballast, the delay is not likely to operate prejudicially
I have the honor to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient,
humble servant;
hand written
MacDonnell
Governor
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