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reigns in Hong Kong and if the policy of the Colony's government is simply to fill the pockets of British traders. Hong Kong is the shop window of Great Britain in China and our behaviour on that small stage can do much to make or may our policy on the vaster one behind. Macao is commercially dead and Hong Kong is the only trading centre in China proper which remains in European hands. It is, therefore, a unique responsibility.
It is, therefore, suggested that as a matter of
high policy the British Government should decide to make Hong Kong
a model of a progressive, democratic Chinese community.
There is at present no sign that such a polig
is seriously contemplated.
The British Military Administration
restored order, organised elementary relief measures and the wheels of trade and industry in motion with promptness and efficiency. It handed over control to the Civil Government in May 1946 and Sir Mark Young, returned temporarily to govern the Colony which he left
as a prisoner in 1943, He brough with him proposals for a Municipal Council but no agreement in this scheme has yet been reached and it is difficult to judge whether it is intended to alter, in any significant way, the autocratic methods of government which have
hitherto existed.
Much more is needed than this for unless there
is overwhelming pressure from the highest levels, reform will inevitably falter. The British Community regard Hong Kong as pleasant place of exile in which they hope to make enough money for a comfortable retirement. They cannot be expected to welcome the complications which democratic government would bring or the increased cost of living which higher wages would involve. There is no tradition
of democracy amongst the Portugese, who have mainly come from the
stagnant atmosphere of Macao and the view of the Chinese traders have
already been mentioned. Amongst the Chinese workers and intellectuals
new life is. indeed stirring. Trade unions are increasing their influence and there is Communist activity. But political life is Bedevilled by the irresponsible activities of Chinese secret societies and the mass of the population is so ignorant that it has no real