C-5
PASSAGE MONEY FUND.
(Table. XXV).
30. The net income shows a considerable increase.
FACTORIES.
31. Mr. Meade continued to act as inspector of factories under the Industrial Employment of Children Ordinance; he also acted as Inspector under the Factory (Accidents) Ordinance, 1927.
His report (Annexe B) contains an interesting survey of the results of the working of factory legislation in the Colony.
LABOUR.
32. No strikes or other disputes of importance which had an economic origin occurred during the year, but attempts to create disturbances for political objects followed the success of extremist elements at Hankow and elsewhere. These were met by the proscription of two organisations, the Chinese Seamen's Union and the General Labour Association of Hong Kong, both of which openly advocated Communism and World Revolution. Action taken in April by the Canton authorities against similar organisations in the province had a favourable effect in Hong Kong, though sporadic attempts were made towards the end of the year to extend to Hong Kong the outbreak of looting and disorder with which the City of Canton was afflicted in the month of December. These attempts were frustrated by prompt action against Communist gangs and in particular against a society calling itself the Knitting Workers' Union, the activities of which included vitriol throwing and the distribution of Communist leaflets. A noteworthy event was the disbanding of the notorious Hong Kong strikers, though the so-called Strike Committee continued to hold office and draw a subsidy until the end of the year.
STAFF.
Secretary for Chinese Affairs.
33. Hon. Mr. E. R. Hallifax acted as Colonial Secretary from 5th October, and Hon. Mr. R. A. C. North acted as Secretary for Chinese Affairs from the same date.
Chief Assistant to Secretary for Chinese Affairs.
Mr. R. A. C. North acted as Chief Assistant to Secretary for Chinese Affairs up to October 4th, and Mr. T. W. Ainsworth acted from the 5th October.