509
of prepared opium in transitu
in the manner
proposed ~
would lead to a decrease.
in the revenue derived from opium, as the Opium Farmer
at Macao has
frequently.
paid the Hongkong Opium Farmer for the privilege of bringing prepared opium into the waters of this Colony for the purpose of shipping to Australia, the shipping facilities of this port being
much greater than those of Macao. In view of the circumstances which I have stated
and of the importance of
maintaining
the revenue
if possible at its
present figure, I trust Your Lordship will give me permission to refrain from amending the Ordinance in these two respects.
I am
7. As stated above I am of opinion that tenders should be called for as early
as possible