The COLONIAL TREASURER—Yes; but he is not required to inspect the godowns. He may do so if he likes.
The ACTING ATTORNEY-GENERAL.—That section merely refers to the signing of certificates and so on.
Hon. P. RYRIE—Then it ought to be made more clear. However, I think the matter ought not to be pressed on. Any further remarks I will make will be on the resumption of the second reading or in committee. The Bill is universally condemned outside, condemned by nearly everyone: People say—
The CHIEF JUSTICE—I should like to know what three weeks are required for, because I am sure the Council would expedite as much as possible if it were really required, but time is very pressing.
Hon. P. RYRIE—I will give one reason. To call a meeting of the Chamber of Commerce ten days' notice is required.
Hon. WONG SHING—I beg to say that for the last two or three months speculation has been going on and dealers have sent opium to different parts of China. Two million of dollars worth has been sent away on credit. We might postpone the second reading of this Bill to enable them to collect some of this amount.
The CHIEF JUSTICE—There is no intention to bring it into force at once. In fact I understand it could not be brought into force at once because it would not suit the intentions of the Chinese.
The ACTING-ATTORNEY GENERAL—Nothing has been said to induce me to grant further delay. I therefore move the second reading be adjourned to Tuesday next.
The COLONIAL TREASURER—I beg to second that.
Hon. P. RYRIE—On that day a special meeting of the Chamber of Commerce is being held to consider the same subject.
The Acting ATTORNEY GENERAL—Could not you make your meeting earlier?
Hon. P. RYRIE—No, the mill only goes at four. What information have we as to Macao?
His EXCELLENCY—I have a despatch from Sir John Walsham informing me that Portugal has undertaken that there shall be a similar measure at Macao. Would three o'clock on Wednesday suit the unofficial members?
H. P. RYRIE said that would not give the Chamber of Commerce time to have a meeting.
His EXCELLENCY suggested that the Chamber might be able to get through its business on Tuesday.
Hon P. RYRIE said the meeting on Tuesday was only a committee meeting.
A division was then taken on the question that the consideration of the second reading of the Bill be postponed until Wednesday at three o'clock, which was carried by a majority of one, the voting being as follows.
FOR,
The Harbour Master
The Surveyor-General
The Colonial Treasurer
The Asg. Attorney-General
The Acting Col.-Secretary
The Chief Justice
AGAINST,
Hon. C. P. Chater
Hon. J. Bell-Irving
Hon. A. P. McEwen
Hon. Wong Shing
Hon. P. Ryrie
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