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41 EnD
6. The Port Committee itself is of the opinion that it would at present be most difficult to obtain satisfactory representation of all labour interests, but that the suggestion might be reconsidered as soon as regular Trade Unionism is constituted. The Trade Unions Ordinance will, it is hoped, bring that date nearer.
7. I would propose, with your permission, to ask the Port Committee to consider the advisability of adding to their numbers by the appoint- ment of Mr. K. Baker of the Labour Department to hold a watching brief for labour interests. This would be a temporary measure, to be in force only until the Trade Unions become sufficiently developed to have direct representation.
8. As regards the suggestion that the Director of Marine should be relieved of his duties as Marine Magistrate under section 6 of the Magistrate's Ordinance, I regret it has not yet been found possible to bring in the necessary legislation. The proposal is being considered in conjunction with other suggested amendments to the Ordinance with a view to the introduction of a comprehensive amending bill. But there is one practical difficulty which may make it necessary to postpone this particular change. The ordinary magistrates are already so heavily worked that it would not be easy for them to undertake the additional duties which would devolve upon them if the Director of Marine and his Assistants ceased to exercise their existing powers. In practice, the Director of Marine has not functioned as a Magistrate under section 6 of the Ordinance for a matter of 18 months, but his Assistants continue to do so and it may well be found necessary as a matter of administrative convenience, to allow this to continue for some time longer.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
Mharthand
GOVERNOR.