111
"code of laws
or to make
any
"attempt to assimilate in this
t
respect the Ordinances
of
the
ما
*Colony with the general practice of
"the British Empire."
Jr.
After
a
few years consideration
>
and enquiry, I think the time has
how
come for modifying the Flogging and branding Ordinances of Hong Kong, not merely in accordance with the more humane code of laws in civilized countries, but in
accordance with the clear evidence
obtained as to the evil effect
in this
Colony of the flogging and branding system and it's final condunnation
by
the
Officers entrusted with the
administration
of
the Law and the
treatment
of
criminals. No doubt under
the authority given to me
by
Her
Majesty's Commission, I have been
able, from time to time, to lessen in particular cases the rigour of those ordinances by the lawful exercise of
the clemency of the brown, when, after carefully complying with the Royal Instructions in such matters; I have thought it necessary to do
That and other causes account the reduced number of floggings
L
for
as shown in
returns.
one
of
the inclosed