1920-1930
93
483
Piracy of s.s. Sunning (15/11). Piracy of s.s. Wei Hoi (19/11). Visit of Swedish Crown Prince and Princess (21/11). Arrival of the s.s. Ryndam, the Floating University (22/11). H.E. the Governor's Inspection of the New Diocesan School (30/11). Reception of Macao's Governor at Government House (7/12). Visit of Bishop of London (arrived 23/12).
Trade & Industry.-There was a gradual decline in the exchange value of the dollar from 2/4-9/16 in January to around 1/11 in the latter part of the year. This factor along with the anti-British boycott, which continued in lesser degree during the year, led to a considerable restriction of the normal business activity. In piece goods, as a result of the partial lifting of the boycott, the greater part of stocks accumulated during the previous year moved into consumption. Competition from Japan increased in intensity and scope. The increasing demand for China-produced yarn which has adversely affected the sale of the Bombay product, was even more pronounced during the year and very little business was done in Indian yarns. The Canton silk trade which normally passed through Hong Kong, was diverted to Shanghai during the greater part of the year, but local business houses were gradually regaining former connections. Trade, which fluctuated considerably, was particularly good in September owing to sharp decline in local exchange rates. Throughout October demand continued good particularly from Lyons. Prices of Raw Sugar advanced in consequence of restriction of output of the Cuban product, but owing to the political disturbances in South China the volume of business in Hong Kong refined sugar was considerably below normal.
Public Works.-1. COMPLETED :-(a) New Fire Station: King's College: New Sisters' Quarter, Government Civil Hospital; New Hospital, Kowloon; Married quarters for Chinese Police at Cheung Chau, Sai Kung, Taipo and Shataukok. (b) Mongkok-Kowloon City Road. (c) Eastern half of Service reservoir; Eastern filter beds; Stanley Mound Catchwater; Four filter beds at Laichikok
Page 490
Page 491