1920-1930
43
1906.
433
Mr. F. H. May, C.M.G., administered from 15.12.1906 to 23.1.1907.
Principal Events.-Commission appointed to enquire into administration of Sanitary Laws (28/4). The construction of the Kowloon-Canton Railway (British Section) was taken over by the Construction Staff appointed by Consulting Engineers in May. The Beacon Hill tunnel was commenced, South face (15/9) North face (1/12). Piracy of British Steamer "Sainam" on West River, British Missionary killed (13/8). Severe typhoon (18/9), 15 Europeans including Protestant Bishop and some 10,000 Chinese drowned. 2,413 Chinese craft reported lost, 141 European vessels and launches foundered or badly damaged. British Steamer "Hankow" burnt at wharf, 111 lives lost (14/10). Census taken (6/11). Kowloon-Canton Railway Final Loan Agreement signed (10/11).
Trade & Industries.-General depression in trade; heavy losses through fall in price of Indian yarn; shares in local undertakings much depreciated in value. Increased importation of Australian flour. Iron mining started and a large Flour Mill opened in the New Territories. Exchange averaged 2/1-7064 for the year and stood at 2/3 on December 29th.
Public Works.-Harbour Office, Western Market, Bacteriological Institute, Volunteers' Headquarters, Taipo Quarters, and Gunpowder Depôt completed. Considerable progress made with Kowloon roads and extension of Conduit Road in Victoria; Mee Lun Lane resumption scheme well advanced; new Kowloon Reservoir brought into use and rider main system completed.
Legislation.-17 Ords. passed including Married Women's Property and Criminal Evidence Ords. (Nos. 5 & 14) designed to bring local law into line with English statutes.
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