It is. That, at least, is the view of the Registrar General, Mr. Lockhart, for he says in a minute on this question dated 7 June 1893 "The Chinese do not understand the technicalities of our law and frequently complain of its delays. They regard it as a loophole for rascals and a gold mine for lawyers. They would much rather have a case dealt with summarily by a Magistrate with common sense and a knowledge of Chinese language and customs, than by a jury."
As regards the European community, I have no reason to suppose they wish the Magistrates' power curtailed and in the event of any unsatisfactory decision I should imagine a European would appeal.
The Magistrates Ordinance 1890 gives the fullest power of appeal, if the accused thinks the Magistrate wrong either on facts or in the law (see sect. 99 to 106). Moreover, the magistrate has power to rehear the case within seven days if he has reason to suppose his decision unsatisfactory in any way.
Hong Kong is a small place with three English daily papers ready to call attention to any unjust or oppressive sentence and any complaint sent to the Governor would be speedily referred to the Attorney General and fully considered with a view to remission of sentence.
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