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their appointments for one year, were Dr. Wan Man-kai and Mr. Li Yik-mui vice Messrs. Li Wing-kwong and Kwok Siu-lau whose terms had expired.
31. The balance to the credit of the District Watchmen Fund at the end of the year was $34,890 as compared with $31,063, the income thus exceeding the expenditure by $3,837. Of the balance $28,000 is invested in Hongkong 6% War Loan, and the remainder $6,890 deposited in the Colonial Treasury.
32. The total strength of the District Watchmen Fund at the end of the year was 102; which figure is the approved establishment. One vacancy at the beginning of the year and 6 casualties have been filled by enlistment.
33. The number of convictions secured by the force was 289 as compared with 363 in 1921, and 426 in 1920.
34. The Detective Staff numbered 20 in 1922. Police Inspector Murphy continued to devote part of his time to the supervision of this section of the Force. When he left in January his place was taken by Police Inspector Appleton. As he has been able to give his full time to the work, the number of convictions obtained has accordingly increased, although a great deal of the energy of the whole District Watchmen Force has been expended in dealing with the Labour troubles of the year. Inspector Appleton has done excellent work throughout and besides raising the standard of the detective side of the Force, has justified his appointment as liaison officer. The connection with the Regular Police has been effectively used to the advantage of both sides, and without interference with the essential character of the District Watch.
(iii.)—PERMITS.
35. Six hundred and ninety-seven (697) permits to fire crackers were issued as against eight hundred and ninety-seven (897) in 1921, and five hundred and fifty-four (554) were on the occasion of marriage.
36. Other permits issued were 17 for religious ceremonies and 9 for processions. 159 permits were issued for theatricals, 120 of which performances were held in permanent and 39 in temporary buildings.
MARRIAGES.
Ordinance No. 7 of 1875 and No. 6 of 1903.
37. The number of marriages solemnised during the year was 169 as compared with 165 in 1921. The number contracted at the Registrar's Office was 31. In 1921 it was 29.