195
7.
The control of a large body of men serving in some
fifty ships belonging to four or five different firms would
inevitably lead to difficulties unless they were under one
head. The Hongkong Police have now, on their books, a
force of watchmen and piracy-guards which they supply to
merchant ships as required (mainly river steamers)
irrespective of the nationality of the line.
8.
The views of the Anti-Pi ra cy Committee on the
above are:-
(a) The failure of Indian guards, in the past, has been much exaggerated by shipping Companies. It has been established that they have, on several occasions, saved ships from piracy.
The Ships'
(b) Indian guards have always worked under the di sa dvantage that they have been virtually un supported in their respon si bi li ty. officers have generally disassociated them selves from anti-piracy measures and have avoided interfering with the control of the passengers, which they consider to be the sphere of the Compradore.
(c) Indians, admittedly, want constant supervision. If properly looked after and led they prove loyal and reliable. If neglected they readily become slack and out of hand.
(d) when embarked, the guards should be under the
control of the company and regarded as part of the crew, specifically under the orders of the Ships' officers. A suitable officer should be detailed in each ship to be in charge of the men. They should he inspected and drilled so that, as far as possible, they may consider themselves as under the same military discipline which they understand and respect. Their duties should be
clearly set out and they should be made to comply with them in every detail.
9.
"(ii) Naval and Lilitary guards have proved a most effective measure against piracy"
•
It is undoubtedly the case that Fritish, i.e.
Naval and military, guards have proved effective.
They are