1920-1930
53
1912.
Governor Sir Francis Henry May, K.C.M.G., 4.7.1912. (Mr. Claud Severn administered from 16.3.12 to 3.7.12).
443
Principal Events.-Importation of Persian Opium into China prohibited from 1st January. Disturbed condition of adjacent Chinese Territory owing to withdrawal of military posts along frontier resulted in some serious raids into British territory. Indian troops drafted to various points along frontier (26/6), withdrawn (30/11). Embargo placed by Canton Authorities on limestone from Kuangtung for Green Island Cement Co. (July). Sir HENRY MAY on landing was fired at by Chinese fanatic but escaped unhurt (3/7). Cheung Chau Police Station attacked by pirates and three Indian Constables killed (19/8). Joint expedition by Portuguese and Chinese to eradicate pirates from island of Wong Kam near Macao proved abortive (20/8). Boycott of Low Level Tramway on account of their refusal to accept Chinese subsidiary coins began (November).
Trade & Industries.-Exchange during the year showed a distinct rise owing to the projected borrowings in China, good harvests in India, and the forced buying of silver by the Indian Government to replenish their reserve. In December it stood at 2/1. The Indian Yarn trade was fair and keen interest was shown by Chinese dealers in the product of the local mill. Piece-goods clearances were fair but business was generally unprofitable. The trade in woollens was also fair. Sundries business was excellent during the first half of the year. The market was still however suffering from excessive speculation induced by the demand for European articles of clothing. The Silk Market suffered indirectly through the Balkan trouble and the Presidential elections in America. Trade in matting was fairly satisfactory. An important business was done in Metal, especially Silver, Quicksilver, Nailpods, Lead, Copper, Tin and Yellow Metals at greatly advanced prices brought about partly through labour troubles and advanced.
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