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HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
MINUTES.
The Minutes of the previous meeting of the Council were confirmed.
ANNOUNCEMENT.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY.-Sir, in order that the telegrams exchanged on the subject of the Colony's war contribution, the text of which has already been published in the local press, may have a place on the records of this Council, I am commanded by Your Excellency to recite the following:-
From Governor, Hong Kong, to Secretary of State, dated 14th March, 1940.
"I have the honour on behalf of the Colony of Hong Kong to offer to His Majesty's Government as contributions towards the prosecution of the war the following amounts.
(a) $5,000,000 towards the construction and equipment of two mine-sweeping vessels, four harbour defence vessels and two ferry tenders
(b) a gift of £100,000 in cash.
These amounts were unanimously voted in the Legislature to-day."
From Secretary of State, to Governor, Hong Kong dated 15th March, 1940.
"Please convey to the Legislative Council of Hong Kong the sincere thanks of His Majesty's Government for their exceedingly generous decision to offer an immediate gift to His Majesty's Government of £100,000 towards the prosecution of the war and to provide for the construction of naval vessels from the proceeds of special war taxation. His Majesty's Government deeply appreciate these very practical contributions by the people of Hong Kong towards the successful prosecution of the war."
PAPERS.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY.-By Your Excellency's command, I lay upon the table certain papers, copies of which are in the hands of Honourable Members.
The Papers laid were as follows:-
Amendment made by the Governor in Council under section 3
of the Importation and Exportation Ordinance, 1915, Ordinance. No. 32 of 1915, to the prohibitory order relating to the importation of certain merchandise from Macao, dated 14th March, 1940.
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