1920-1930
47
437
guards. Small Debts Court instituted in N.T., and Widows' and Orphans' Pension Fund transferred to Hong Kong Government.
1909.
Principal Events.-International Opium Conference at Shanghai (Feb.). 26 opium divans in H.K. closed (1/3). The headings from each end of Beacon Hill tunnel met (17/5). Opium Ordinances amended and consolidated in accordance with the resolutions of the Shanghai Conference, additional restrictions and safeguards being imposed in respect of morphine, compounds of opiums and cocaine (1/9). Duties imposed on intoxicating liquors (17/9). Severe typhoon (19-20/10). Conference held in H.K. between Portuguese and Chinese Commissioners for delimitation of boundaries of Macao (June-Nov.). Total endowment fund of proposed H.K. University amounted at close of year to $533,496 exclusive of $718,614 promised.
Trade & Industries.-The local money market was easy throughout the year. Real estate showed faint signs of revival. In imports a large business was done. Exports were active; silk was in good demand. The sugar refining industry prospered. Shipping showed a slight improvement on the previous year, but this was not reflected in the local docking industries which suffered from insufficient work. Loss by depreciation of subsidiary currency continued: the Govt. withdrew from circulation and demonetized $779,712 of subsidiary silver coin and $40,646 of bronze coin. Exchange averaged 1/9.060d for the year and stood at 1/9¾d on December 31st.
Public Works.-The old stables adjoining the Government Offices were extended and raised to render the upper storey available and so provide additional accommodation for the staff of the Public Works Department. A bungalow on the mainland at Tai Po