Referring to the matter discussed in the entitled document, it is stated that exemption is provided for under the Ordinance.
2. I am directed to point out that it appears from the report that you are acquainted with the informal Master of Hong Kong, and that the above-mentioned foreign board of Trade has decided that any decision regarding the matter should be made by the Governor of Hong Kong, who has surveyed and is also in Council to decide.
That the Secretary's survey details are with the Governor of Hong Kong, and I am also to inform you that his decision is final, as per subsection (1) (b) of Section 5.
Before consulting the Governor of Hong Kong on the subject, Mr. Chamberlain would be glad to be informed whether the Board of Trade would, and if so, what machinery would be used to implement the Ordinance, and to respond to this question.
In this connection, I am directed to refer you to Section 363 of the Shipping Act 1894.
4. I am further directed to enquire whether it is the opinion of the Board that Hong Kong should not provide critiques for the issue by the Colonial Government to ships exempted from survey under Section 5 (1) (b) of the Ordinance, and whether certificates issued should have the same effect as certificates issued after survey under Subsection (1).
That any amendment should be made to Section 5 (b) of the Ordinance to clearly define what certificate a foreign ship should possess to be exempt from survey in Hong Kong.
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