THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH, THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 1891.`
INCREASED GAOL ACCOMMODATION. The following despatch by the Secretary of
settled, I think probably there might be no apposition to the other clauses and we might appears to depend on these two questions.
The President-How long has the amended meeting Bill been in the hands of members?
and quite agree with him that with our increared they are all honest and straightforward | fncrease on salaries for this year, and hon. pass them in very little time, but the whole thing State was laid on the table at the same
placed to the credit of new offices. Therefore the absolute difference is $44,01 That is the net members may remember that when we considered this question in Finance Committe, I said the probable increase would be about $50,000. Now, gentlemen, taking that as a fact, that the real increase in salaries is only $44rco and that wo are called upon to pay this additional suma for military contribution, which amounts to $114,000,
Mr. Ryrie-I rise to second Mr. Whitehead's resolution. He has certainly gone into the whole question in a most exhaustive manner,
expenditure we want to do a little retroachment. It is rather an ungrateful thing to do, what is proposed in the resolution, but still we think it It should be done. We have to look necessary to our ways and means now, and these salaries cannot be paid for some time, they may be reconsidered by and by, but our ways and means are not very flourishing at present with this paper? It seems to me that the arrival or net | I must say I should have expected the hon. military contribution upon us. I have much pleasure in seconding the resolution of the hon. member on my right.
Mr. Keswick-1 rise for the purpose of moving an amendment to the motion of my hos, friend Mr. Whitehead. I do so because I am unable ❘ to recognise the reason given in the resolution why the salaries should not be increased as altogether logical or correct. As I said in this Council on a former occasion, it is a very ungrate ful and unpleasant task to discuss questions liko this, which in some respects is personal, or at all events has a personal application, but I cannot
differenco, any material difference, to the revenue of this Colony? Can any hon, member honestly -I don't mean honestly, because we know but can they say in their inmest minds that if these 1,500 men had arrived there. would have been any objection to paying that enhanced milltary contilbution, and if they had arrived can hon members say in their inmost minds this resolution would ever have appeared on the of these 1,500 men has nothing to do with the capacity of this colony to pay a certain sum. It seems to me that recommendation having been so recently made nothing has occurred since to justify us in making auch a complete velfs far as is desired by the hon, member who moves the resolution.
Mr. Whitehead-Before replying to the remarks which have been made by the Attorney- General I am desirous, with your permission, that the amendment be substituted for the motion. I made.
The President-I don't think you can quite do amendment and naturally your vote will follow the expression of your approbation.
Dr. Ho Kal-We have only just seen it.' The President-Under those circumstances I
have no hesitation in acceding to your request that the consideration of the Bill be postponed.
The Council then adjourned sine dit.
VICTORIA GAOL.
· SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT,
The report of the Superintendent of Victoria Gaot laid on the table at the Legislative Council meeting on Friday last, was as follows:--
Hongkong, 13th January, 1893, - Sir, beg to forward herewith the annual 1890
1
During ten months of this year the duties of Superintendent were performed by Major Dempster.
There has been a small decrease in the average number of prisoners during the year and a very large proportionate Increase in the number of prison offences, but this increase is vakums picking and irregolarkles at shot-drill offences has not increased.
The conduct of the subordinate staff during the year has been satisfactory,
FRISON BUILDINGS.
Downing Street,at. 21st November, 18ga. Sir, I have the honour to acknowledge the
September submitting, with your gen comments, receipt of your despatch No 334 of the 16th of a report by the Surveyor-General upon the best, mode of increasing and improving the prison accommodation of the colony.
Three alternative plans are suggested by Mr. Brown, and are considered in your despatch, vir: additions to and modifications of the present building, the construction of one now block on another site, and the construction of a whole prison on a new site.
You incline to the first plán as most likely to be in harmony with the wishes of the community, and I wish I could bring myself to sanction' It only for the reason that the delay has already. been so great that any scheme which is likely to
much to commend It.
The objections, however, to enlarging the present gsol, to some of which Mr. Brown calls attention, seem on full consideration to be in superable. The two evils which it is wished to remedy, yiz overcrowding and association, would, ander it, still continue. For the crowding of prisoners in the ballding would be substituted of low elevation, which do not seriously. Impeds the area thus cleared, while a still larger space; would be filled by a large three-storied block, shutting out all light and air and absorblag the space used for exercising yards, workshops and, other essentials-the prison thus made consisting of a number of large blocks separated by ailey
be kept number of the prisoners would sill associated wards, and as it is considered that separation would be especially effective in the case of Chinese, an arrangement which, after considerable expenditure would still fall in great measure to secure this object, cannot be con-- sidered satisfactory,
We plan
recommend - this should be appropriated as Follows:--
To dividend of $5 per share, say 10
per cent.
**................................$30,000.00 Temuneration to Conseling Com
mitten and General Managers as
4,186.04 per articles of association TIMES .. depreciation on shipsand stocks... 3,000.00 4,600.00 write 10 per cent. off goodwill Fy carry forward to next account iulie -4,472.50
PROPERTIES.
$43.758.54
All the Company's properties are in good order and have been well maintained during the years It will bài scen from tho-accounts now sub- mitted that some additions have been made to the Company's fleet of sailing vessels during the past year, and that a steasu-launch also has been purchased, all of which have been considered necessary to provide for the Increasing work to we donate and man
· The China markets: for timber, as, for many other articles of commerce, have proved very: be expected that some improvement will soon be shown, and that the Company's business will participate in same. On the other hand the Company has been kept very fully occupied in Manila, and contracts are now 'on hand which: will provide full work for some time to come, and. the prospects for the current year secta vers favourable indeed.
In accordance with the terms of his agreement" the Philippines, and the business of the Company snow being conducted by Mr. F. J. Anderson, a gentleman who for a number of years past has been associated with Mr. Brown in the business, and the General Managers and Consulting Committee are well satisfied that in his hands
member to have brought forward some exhaustive motion which would have asked this Council to fod some means of making up the whole. But not a word as to that came in. Then, again, I must say I should have expected, considering the hen, member voted for the Widows and Orphans' Bill and for the Ordinance for the abolition of the Civil List, that he would at least by the motion have asked that the Government would, in addition to recaling the Appropriation Bill for 1991-for that. I practically what this resolution comes to-bring forward a { Bill to repeal the Ordinance cancelling, the Civil shul my eyes to the fact that, as I mentioned in that, but you can express your approbation af the ❘ List Ordinance, which was the Magna Charta of statistical return of Victoria Gaol for the year be pushed forward quickly, has on that ground disappointing during the past year, but it is to this Council in December last, a mistake has been
the rights of the Civil Servants of the Colony, and also a Bill to repeal the Widows and made in the amount of the increase of salaries
Orphans' Bill, which compels a great number of recommended. The amount recommended by the Mr. Whichead-Then I would say a few hose obtaining the increase of salaries to sub Committee was only $10,000, and instead of that words in reply to the remarks which have been
scribe to the fund. Then, again, the bon, mem- sam, which would have abown a very moderate made. It has been stated that I have drawn a percentageof increase, salaries have been increas terrible pleture of the position and conditioner who has proposed the resolution says this ed to the amount of 15 per cent. I quite feel that of this colony. I think there is a very question was not brought forward as a matter it is desirable in the public interest to tackle this great deal, of truth in the remarks which I of impulse, and, of course, we accept his states question without delay and recognise that a mis-made, and the future of the colony, on the meat, but it so happens that we are enabled to
e has been made and ought to be remedied |authority of his Excellency the Governor, la fix the fact that this change of view as to salaries due to petty offences of which talking, short crowding of buildings on the site ;out bulidings.net:2 TH MANAGER :: while there is yet time, and it is for that reason not assured. His Excelleney the Governor must have taken place same time since the 25th I take advantage of the opportunity now af- pointed out three causes, three most important / February last, in other words that this change' aro the principal. The number of serious prison | the circulation of air, would be pulled down, Mc Brown has retired from the management in forded me, which I dil not expect to have In causes, at work tending to our destruction, and of oplaton-zotice of the motion was given a fort- December, I feared the matter was then com- his Excellency plainly stated that we were nat night ago-must have taken place between the plete. I think all the unofficial members felt yet in a position to determine the outcoms, of 15th February and 25th March. Now my reasons with myself that a right and proper increase of these causes at work. A great many changes, for this statement are these: it so happens that the salaries was necessary. I feel so still. But the I think, have come over the colony since Decem very same day on which this increased military resolution of my hon. friend opposite reads ber., A number of the new companies which contribution was brought forward for the con them bave since gone into liquidation, and there proposed increase to the salary of the present are increased algns of the shrinkage of our and future Governors of this colony was tabled and hon. members voted for that, increase of revenue. If the 1,500 extra men promised to our garrison had arrived I can honestly say that I salary to the present and future Governor with would still hold pretty nearly the same view, that out a word of dissent. Their objections to the I do today, and that I would not have hesitated military contribution were overruled. At the to give notice of, and, to move the resolution subsequent meeting of the Legislative Connell what happened? The increase to the Governor have moved to-day. The resolution, I think, is as passed without a word and the question of the one that is justified by the altered circumstance military contribution was postponed for one week, of the colony.
I think, and at a subsequent meeting the motion The Acting Colonial Secretary-Hon. memofthsanofficial members against the contribution bers, as it has already been, observed this is at
was negatived. Then appears the question as first sight a very delicate question for any official to whether the increased salaries have been member to express an opinion upon, but by a
paid. Then no sooner are the words out of my fortunate combination of circumstances to mouth that these increased salaries have not happens that the salaries of the hon. official been paid, than the hon. member springs up and members on my left (the Attorney General and gives notice of the motion now before the Council. the Surveyor General) and the Colonial Tre: It seems to me that although this may not have surer on my right are not in any way affected been the action of Impulse, yet seeing the very by this proposed increase. Therefore the votes important interests concerned, affecting three of these thres gentlemen must be taken aa Ordinances of the Colony, and the fact that all perfectly impartial. I will now come to my members of Council approved the facense of own case. Taking the rate exchange resolution did the privilege of remitting part of my salary at 43 ad, I find that the net gain to me by the increase of salaries will be some $300 per year. 1 do not think that $300 a year is a sum that will be considered to biss my opinion one way or the other. There only remains one member of Council who might
that in consequence of the enhanced military were supposed to have a brillant future befora sideration of Council, on that very same day the annual urgentrecommendations for Gaol enlarge-.] ways from 20 to 25 feet wide. Again, a larga, the work will be well and efficiently done.
contribution" the colony cannot pay the increased salaries recommended. I view the matter quite differently and consider that it is in consequence of a great many extra- ordinary expenses we have that we are unable to grant this Increase. I suppose there never was a time in the history of the colony when the enormous demands for pubile works and general expenditure were so great in comparison with its shrinking revenue. I am satisfied that the revenue of the colony is declining, and it is on these grounds I consider this increase to afficial salaries of 35 per cent. should be reconsidered and what may be regarded as an adequate Increase only be given in its place. I am not aware that there is anything I need say further in moving the amendment, except that I do so on the grounds that the motion of the hon. member it not wide enough in its scope. 1 would therefore propose, sir, that the following amendment be adopted :-"That consequence of the increase to official salaries being greatly in excess of what was contemplated by the
subject, and the ever-growing Gwernment es tablishments to which the increase would apply, and in view of the fact that the decllaing re- venue of this Colony will not be equal to so great a sirain upon it for the enormous public works in progress, besides the other impending and urgent necessities of the Colony and the in
that the Secretary of State be asked by tele.
increase until the amount can be reconsidered." Dr. Ho Kai- have much pleasure in ses conding the amendment of the hon, member opposite. I think the wording of the amendment is a great improvement on the wording of the resolution, although they both point to the same end and have the same meaning, I think the hon. member who moved the resolution must see that the amendment has the advantage over the original motion in that it sets forth really and truly the considerations which have influe enced us in naking that the increase in the offi-
I have accordingly come to the conclusion that the whole or part of a new prison must be built upon a fresh site, and I consider that the second plan suggested by Mr. Brown should be built, providing separate accommodation · for (say) 100 or 250 prisoners, avowedly only as an instalment of a complete new prison. The same course you will remember was followed in Mauritius, and a reference to my despatch No. or of the ath of June, 1887, will show that three years ago I urged that Was soon as ever fands are available a wing of the now prison should be constructed." If the building is thus gradually. completed there ought to be no necessity for having recourse to a lean,
Committee specially appointed to consider the it was yesterday and taking away as the recent salary to the present and fature Governor, rather less than 200 cubic feet of air each. They berond question the proper position for the
The site of the present prison is, I understand,
and in connexion with them it is necessary to Police Station and the Magistrate's Courts; have a certain amount of prison accommodation for prisoners ander remand, awaiting trial, &c. Eventually permanent provision might also be made on this site for short sentenced prisoners continued), and except for the latter the separate system should be adopted throughout, converting the present building lato a house of detention; containing a certain number of wards for debtors and cells for 150 prisoners-say, accommodation and the out-buildings in the front might be for 256 in all. The radiating blocks in the rear cleared away, and, if funds are available, the Courts and Police Station might be improved.
CONSULTING COMMITTEE,"
Messrs. Dalrymple, Sassoon and Layton retire, in accordance with the Articles of Association, but being eligible offer themselves for re-election. to w211 ra mat (AUDITOR. . :
The accounts have been audited by Mr. Fullarton Henderson, who offers himself for re- election.KEEN TO
GIRD, LIVINGSTON & Co., ---- General, Managers.
Hangong, toth April, 1891.
Lamar Ka MACAO.
(FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT.)
-Macao, 13th April, 1891. colony is making a spirited attempt to prevent His Excellency the 'Governor of this hapless'
the entire closing of the port. The mud has of late years been siting up in the harbour to such an extent that the day cannot be very far distant, actively taken in hand, when even steamers unless effective measures of prevention are of the lightest draft; will be unable to enter the inner harbour, Senhor Borja, himself a practical saller, has recognised the danger, and as Macao's very existence depends on the Hongkong and Canton, he has done wisely in grappling with a serious dificulty that has been rendered more formidable by the neglect of years. The harbour of Macao needs thorough dredging and the construction of a carefully buoyed wharves faside, and at a meeting of the Executive channel from opposite the Light-house to the Council held on Sahirday the the fast, che stell
creased military contribution, It is desirable possibly be affected (the Registrar-General), of the other members of the Service are not is declared by law to be a nuisance. They and debtors (If Imprisonment for debt be maintenance of her, shipping, relations with
gram to withhold his sanction to the proposed
oog to some $2,000, it might have been expected that we should have heard something about the general question at that time and that the vets would have been opposed. Under all the circumstances 1. must say I think the official members are in a sufficiently independent post- tos to justify them in seeing that the interests
passed over on this occasion, and I think con as hon. members have already reduced bledersting the hardships several of them, proposed salary from what was recommended by especially the older officers of the service have gone through in the last twenty or thirty years by seeing the purchasing value of their salaries year by year disminish, without any fault on their part or without being able in any way to check that every member here is perfectly justified in voting against not only the amendment but the resolution.
the Secretary of State to what they recommend now as a fair. salary I also think his vote may be considered as fairly impartial. Now, gentle men, turning to the question of the amendment, I find that the hon. member who proposed states that it was the intention of the Committee to recommend an increase of to per cent. all round. I am afraid the hon. member has not refreshed his memory by looking, at what he signed.
Mr. Ryrie said with reference to the hon. I. I. Keswick, he had been absent from some mest Ings of the Committee appointed, but that he was able to vouch for his having held only one opinion on the matter, he baring expressed that opinion more than once te him,”
The President sald he had only referred to what appeared over the signature of the hon. member."
.!
The Council then divided on Mr. Keswick's amendment as follows
FOR.
Mr. Whitehead Dr. Ho Kai Mr. Ryrie Mr. Keswick
AGAINST,
The Registrar-General The Colonial Treasurer The Attorney-General The Surveyor-General- The President
The President--The amendment ls lost. Mr. Ryrie-And the original motion stands. The President-Not in this case. The Cound! will now divide on the original motion.
Mr. Whitehead-I do not quite understand, I have already given my vote.
-The Council then divided on the motion ----
FOR.
AGAINST. Mr. Whitehead. Dr. Ho Kai Mr. Ryzic
Mr. Keswick
The Registrar-General The Colonial Treasurer The Attorney-General The Surveyor-General The President
The prison buildings remain unchanged. My ment and fatroduction of the separate system appear to be but wearisome and useless relterations. A recent vote of the Finance Committee of Council having decided that no money is to be spent for such purposes, it seems to be doubted by the committee whether the experience of other countries as to the deterrent effects of this system would be appilcable to Chinese prisoners. The question of the reforma tory facilities of the system appears not to have been considered nor has any reference been made to the monstrous evils of the present Gaol system in this colony. As far back as 1886 1 brought to notice of Government in a special report the scandalous, state of overcrowding in this Gaol. An influential committee was appolated, to enquire into and report on this subject in the spring of 1886, but no steps have yet been taken to improve the state of matters then reported. There were then and are now in this Gaol 95 associated cells, occupied, many of them day and night. There are crowded to such as extent that the prisoners have on an average sleep on the floors packed together covered by their blankets; it is impossible to prevent their converging at night under the blankets. It is needless to speak of morality or decency. I will only observe that these prisoners are many of them day and night in a state of overcrowding which even by night alone in the city of Victoria breathe in about one-third less cuble space then is by law permited for sight lodging-houses. Were the Superintendent of the Gaal a lodging-house keeper he would be liable to a fine of $50 for every one of the associated cells in Victoria Gaol,
95 See Ordinance 28 of 1857, sections 7 at 24 This Ordinance refers only to sanitary matters, but the moral aspect of this state of things is far graver. Victoria Gaol is, in my opinion, simply a school of vice and crimas. The un- fortunate man, previously not a criminal, who finds his way to Gaol, perhaps for a breach of opium laws, a street fight or any other petty offence runs a risk of contamination which it is difficult to escape; many emerge well instructed in crime. The evil influence extends beyond the Gaol; they promise to visit the friends of their prison, comrades and are not improved by the contact. It is true indeed that every effort is made to avoid contamination by keeping different classes apart-boys from men, old affenders from first offenders, &c,-but this is of little use. In a cell full of 8 or 9 now offenders, It must often happen that one or more, though new offenders as regards this Gaol are old- criminals from other places who devote them selves to corrupting the more innocent. Hong kong is well known to be full of pirates, burglars, thlever and criminals of every description, many of whom are associated in Triad Societies. 1 am aware that at one time (and probably now upwards of one hundred members of the Triad Society were in Gaol and recruits to this society were largely obtained from discharged prisoners. The present associated system of this Gaol lends 'extraordinary facilities to the extension of these criminal organizations, and whatever, money may be saved to the public refasley to build the Gael accom- modation which health, decency and criminal in incrested Foilce expenses and increased insecurity to life and property in the colony and neighbouring waters. The Chinese prisoners in this Gaol while exposed to all these evil infinences have on the other hand nothing done for their Improvement. The little that is done is to teach some of the confirmed criminals honest trades. This cannot be done for all; there is no space for proper workshops. The bulk of the prisoners: have to be employed in the monotonous and profitless labour of shot and stone carrying, varied by oskum picking. Nothing is done to expand or elevate their minds; no tultion of any sort is provided; no one is sppointed to visit them and encourage them with kindly words of human sympathy. Anative missionary indeed preacher in Chinese on Sundays in the yard-this is all.
With such a sista of matters would it not appear to be the duty of the colony at least to provide for its prisoners a buliding fit to preserve to save them from the fatal and corrupting the fluence of the worst criminals, and to givan reasonable prospect of weaning them frora Crime and teaching them self-respect and industry.
The prison on the new site when complete might contain cells for from 400 to 450 prisoners, together with governer's quarters, offices, accom modation for the staff, &ċ-
The disadvantage of duplicating the staff seems not to be so serious as has been suggested, Wherever the extra accommoatien is provided, additional warders must be employed, and the old prison in its new application could well be placed in charge of an assistant superintendent or chief warder:
yoti
|
minaries to this reform were inaugurated. Tenders had been invited for a powerful dredger, and out of numerous competitors the decision eventually rested between a Belgian firm and the Hongkong and Whampoa Dock Company, Limited. A wise resolution was adopted when It was unanimously. decided that the tender of the Dock Company be accepted, to supply for the sum of $110,000 à powerful dredger, in accordance with plans and specifications, together with two large mud burges. The proposal for the new dredger has been passed in Council, and no doubt the money As regards the number of prisoners to be necessary will be vated in, due course; but provided for I have already dealt with the
nevertheless it would be a risky business pre- subject of the mendicants in my despatch No. dicting stated time when we shall see the 233 of the 4th instant. The number of debtors dredger actively at work, The wheels of sent to prison in 1889 was 51, and I would again practical reform revolve very slowly in the " gem suggest that imprisonment for debt should be of the Orient earth.” --jr- abollated in Hongkong. No reason has beenThe Government has started to dig out the given why it should be retained in this Colony old dock and to erect work-shops to repale the in particular, and I cannot but hope that on machinery of steam-launches, etc, just Inside reconsideration your Council may agree in the the Bama fort. This dock was presented advisability of its abolition. The introduction to Government a short time since when of the separate system may be expected,
Colonel Ferreira was Acting Governor-by. have observed, eventually to further diminish the
Tea Sin Ip, the adopted son of Chow On one number of prisoners, and I do not therefore of the leading Chiness merchants, and the contemplate the necessity of providing for mere
authorities are now clearing it out and cou than 450 separate cells fa the new gaol, of which
structing a small naval depot for local repairs, unt more than açd would be built in the first It is satisfactory to note that the work of Cadet And thoroughly cleaning thatownis being energetically processed Wha, After the deally, induenza In accordance with Mr. Brown's requestin epidemic of the past winter the Government printed "Description of the Prison at Wormwood fired a decres that every road and street should Scrubs" has been obtained from the Directors be cleaned, and that every house in the colony and I have asked the Governor of the Straits essly painted at least once in eight years. This Sec. of Convict Prisons and is herewith enclosed must be whitewashed every three years and Settlements to have a copy of the plans of the order caused considérable grumbling at first, Singapore criminal prison made and sent to out it is being carried out and doubtless bene- Hongkong dedical rents to the public health will astraer
I will only add, in conclusion, that I rely on you to press this matter forward without delay. I have sufficiently commented in former des patches on the manner in which it has been shelved from time to time, and fileamesily, host that the suggestions now made will be recognised as reasonable and will meet with no further op. position in the colony. I have the honour to be Sis, your most obedient humble servant, quid
KNUTSFORD? at na lármulas per centy
Shungi CRUICKSHANK & CO. LIMPIZDA
instance.
Mr. Keswick--I said an increase of $10,000. The Acting Colonial Secretary-Yes, and that cial salaries should be reconsidered. In the able is about 10 per cent. The report says " (a) #peech of the hon. member who proposed the That the salaries of officers selected In England resolution it was clearly shown that the ground or holding offices which are usually filled up by for moving it is not wholly the increased milit.officers to selected, having been originally fixed tary contribution; in fact, the hoa, member on a sterling basis when the dollar was worth touched upon, all the vital, grounds on, which
40, ad, should be raised to the amount in current the resolution is based, namely, the shrinking dollars equivalent to their original sterling value. revenue of the Colony, the enormous expendi. The privilege enjoyed by a few officers in this ture on extraordinary pubile works, and many class of remitting at the par of exchange should other things, and I am sure the hon, mem- be withdrawn and all such officers put on an ber will readily agree to the substitution equal footing" (6) "That the salaries of other of this amendment for the original resolu- officers who have suffered from the depreciation of the dollar but who as a class may be deemed to tion. I would also mention in connection' with this amendment that it shows that at events be domiciled in the east should be increased by ao we have considered the question there ghly and per cent." Now,gentlemen, what is the value of the have considered all the grounds upon which the dollar to-day?.31. 2d. What is the diference in reduction in the increase to salaries has been percentage between 38.2d, and 45. 2d734 per cent. resolved upon. It also shows we are not actuated There is no doubt about that it is a mere fact by a retaliatory spirit just because the military of arithmetic, and hon, members having recom contribution has been carried against us. That mended that these salaries should be fucreased is not our reason, but it is really on mature 24 per cent. I can scarcely believe they were not consideration of the ways, and means of the aware because in 1889 the exchange was very The PresidentA resolution was proposed colony, of the probable revenue in the future, low-what would be the result of their recomand then anamendment was proposed. Accord and of the expenditure.
mendation. Then there is another poist, al-Ing to the rules of this Council the amendment The Attorney-General-Sir, I am endea though it is not at present in the knowledge of is put first and the resolution afterwards. The
the Council, but I think it will appear in the amendment having been lost the original resoldreform require will probably have to be paid vouring to shake off the feeling of intense Government Garatie to-morrow night, and that tlon now becomes the question before the Coun- depression, which came over me as Mr. White is that we have received the reports of the actual ell. I have therefore to ask the Council to vote head drew such a terrible picture of the future expenditure and revenue of last year, and I be on the original question. of this colony, a pleture so different from that Heve that for the first time for three or four drawn some two years ago by his Excellency years, notwithstanding that in those three or four the Governor. May we not hope that some where between the two lies the right amount of years we had the advantage of a loan, owing to darkness to throw over the scene now ? Can we
the very great care manifested over the expenditure believe the colony is in such a terrible condition the revenue exceeds the expenditure. That is, as the hon. member would have us believe? For
I think, a very satisfactory state of affairs indeed. Then again if hon, members recollect when we my part I take a more hopeful view of the further considered the estimates last year, the estimated of this colony. It is certainly an embarrassing position in which the official members, or most
ravenue for 1891 was a little over $1,000,000 The resolution was therefore lost, of the official members, are placed. It is in round numbers. Therefore as far as the and the estimated expenditure was $1,700,000 certainly not a nice thing to here to discuss in public the question whether une's salary should ordinary expenditure of the colony ts concerned The Attorney-General moved the first reading bs increased or not, One might be thought to
there would be a net balance to the colony of of a Bul to provide for the making of a be s biassed party. I have at least one advantage, $300,000, the so-called deficit being caused by table of foes to be taken in connection with the because my salary is not affected in any way
the immense sums voted for extraordinary publle grant of Letters Patent in this Colony. He works. But it must be borne in mind that the stated that in England, and in most of the by the recent recommendation of the unofficial majority of these extraordinary works are colonies that he was acquainted with, a proper members. Therefore I can speak without should like to put another view of this case. that kind, which will, according to the estimat seem to be any special provision giving the maates that have been made, bring is a power to make a table of fees. It might be The resolution which the hon. member proposes satisfactory percentage on the amount expend taken that the licence would not be granted states that the increased salaries were recently ed. I am therefore unable to take auch unless the fees were paid, but he thought it recommended. I nak, what is the difference between the prospects of this colony at the date taken by some of the hon. members. Then to draw up a fixed table of ices.
gloomy view of the revenue of the colony as is better that power should be given in the Council when that recommendation was made by the un-agata cannot follow the logic. 1 official members and its prospects at the present sinn. First of all the hon. member who pro-Bill was read a first (inse,
of this mo-
The Colonial Treasurer seconded, and the
During the year there have been 11,756 maison date Was it all sunshine and brightness then,
offences to an average of 565, giving a little over was the fatura so clear before us in those days,
12 | poses the resolution compares actual expendi»
20% offences for each prisoner. The great pre- and all so dark, so sombre, so sad now? What jure with estimates. Surely that is a fal
portion of prison offences are committed by short has occurred in the meantime ? Why, that the
rule the difference The Council went into Commitee on this Bill sentence prisoners, Prisoners endiled to earn unofficial members have been beaten on a vote
between the estimated expenditure, and the Dr. Ho Kal-I see by the copy of the Bill remission are generally careful to avoid prison by a small majority.
actual expenditure is something like $10,000 before us that a number of alterations have been offences. On the last day of the year, of 287 Mr. Ryrie and Mr. Whitehead-No, no,
5 year. Then again the hon. member makes no made, and I think the consideration of the Bill Prison sentenced to 6 months' imprisonment The Attorney-General-The unofficial mens pear in these estimates. For instance, nurses at read these alterations, through. I see that the more than three months, and of these 13.kad
reference whatever to the new offices that ap should be abjourned until we have had time to or over, 93 have been clear of punishment for H. G. BROWN AND COMPANY, bers no ay by the resolution-I am speaking the Civil Hospital $1,600, four more European definitions of a gaming house has been altered bean clear for upwards of a year. of the 1. elution, not the amendment That constables $2,400, turnkeys $2,400 Colonial and section 3, which states under what circum- Iappend, as usual, returus showing ika number of the most common offences committed by pri contribution the Colony is not in a position salary, $2,800, two or three clerks $5,000 to pay the increased salaries. And the hon. to the transfer of the Audit Office, and increase e Important parts of the Bill and I think it being shown alongside for the sake ofcomparison.
house, has also been amended. These sis *member is very particular that when once a to the Observatory $2,000. Now, All these
Tason is given it should not be departed from. amounts should be brought into account, and rould save time ultimately if we were allowed There has been a decrease in the Industrial He pinned the Secretary of State down to that surely when the hon. member brought forward time to consider the alterations made earnings during the year owing chiefly to in
The President--I think, perhaps, we might creased cost of paper stuff for oakum picking: all those reasons why there should be ne increase -military-contribution, and he himself must stick
to the reason he has given. The reason be side of the balance sheet, the gain of $16,000 course no doubt the war of the Bill, so to speak, absolute want of space. The usual returns are gires us why the Increase should be withheld in from the abolition of family remittances. Com in the definition of a gaming house and secilen appended. I have the honour to be, Sir, you In consequence of the enhanced military contribu paring the salaries for 18go with the estimated 3.I think we might go over the other clauses most obollent Servant, tion. - If these 1,500 men alluded to some time salaries for 1891 there, is only a difference of and leave these over, stand der zur Korea,
PA. GORDON ago by the hon, member as phantom men, as 376,000 and from that $76,000 you have to deny Dr. Ho Kai-1 think it would be better if Hooded difteen to Superintendent "they did not appear.......if these 1,500 men båd | duct $35,000, 315,900 that are saved by thosɛ] the whole stood over. Speaking for myself if | The Hon. Francis Fleming, C,M.Gij Colonial
arrived here would that have made any · family rembiances and as much that must be, this definition and section 3 were satiekotestly Bedentary
FEES FOR LETTERS PATENT.
#
Refering to the epidemic of Influenza, the loss of life here was very great. A large number of old Portuguese residents: succumbed, and monat, the Chinese, the death-rate averaged from dirty to forty daily lives 5% The gurbaat. Tefo left bere for: Lisbon on Saturday morning. In addition to her proper complement, she had on board twenty-eight extra – passengers-twenty-two time-expired soldiers, and as prisoners who were packed like herings in a barrel. They will have s paytime in the hot weather the vessel is certala to encounter on her homeward voyage, posta
any personal feeling in this maiter. Now remunerative works, markets and things of tablo of fees existed, but in this Colony there did the health, decency and morality of the inmates, The third annual meeting of the shareholder kaksha hilf-yearly meeting of shareholders la
·lacious test. · An
THE GAMBLING BILL.
PRISOMERS AND THEIR DISCIPLINE,
in the above Company was held at the Hongkong Manager) presided, and amongst these present Hotel on the roth last. Mr. J. Stephen (General wers Messrs. G. Fenwick, F/A Balade,
The Chairman expressed regret at the report not being more favorable attribulleg it to the gaaral depression that existed last year.
Mr.Fenwick proposed, and Mr. Bain seconded; the adoption of the report, which was agrood to and Mr. F. Henderson having been re-elected anditor, the proceedings terminated, sappi
LIMITED, andlumin
The following is the report for presentation to
lo consequence of the enhanced rallitary Treasurer, waking allowance for the lug stances a dab mgy be deemed a gaming | sonary, similar returns for the last three years' shareholders at the second annuali, general
2016
mpany's
one reason which he gave for the enhanced starles he ought to have shown the other |·go on with - certain portions of the BIL Of but Industrial, work is greatly hampered by business, together with a statement of accounts,
meeting to be held at the Hongkong Hotel, Saturday, the 18th April, at noon 2
The Gentral Managers now, beg their report on the working of the
for the year 189010 tours and wer
The working, account shows a not prefs for the year of $41,865,44 carried; forward. and loss account, which together with ́ef $1.398.10 carried forward from 1889
total of 43,138,54 to be dealt with, and General Managers and Consulting Cozamilles
Hongkong, Canton and Macko Steamboat Coonantia, soth the Chairman (Mr. R. R.
altable vessel was stuck in the gaud Baillies) stated that the steamer Hosungisan had Poroved {vary suitablď vessel for the trade. This. Patterly three miles of the port on Saturday last, and did not get alongside the wharf until: past,
gut blocks over three hours later
py? Théré has been a good deal of talk here lately. put the probability of Timor being opened up. terprises; and Butlifsed for the Parotigia the Influence of looncorsions have been Barretto of Hongkong and this port, the former to 1'deposits? the latter to It is said that prospecting mmenced, the preliminary #borna @by?" the “Hog) - CH understood to have secu
Fin the venture,” Some Tute dermits in Timer were neral-discumulara. En commercial prenent wilter has 'a tallafictory
secured
sample by a local experts nacs or ther the proposed scheme lapse" at all events it died out for that there are petroles s la nodarbred, but Wallace in Archipelago" ways that they are terior and can never be made avail- “Able until the" country is civilised) ""The same fasthor aled states that gold has been found, but "very spuriidly and ef poor quality.