46. A number of the smaller knitting and weaving factories closed down altogether and some of the larger factories worked shorter hours. During the last three months, however, various factories, especially those engaged in the manufacture of cigarettes, rubber shoes, felt hats, electric torches, dry batteries and confectionery, began to improve. It is probable that this was mainly due to better export trade consequent upon the fall in value of the local dollar vis-à-vis sterling and there is reason to hope that this improvement will be maintained.
47. As usual, the knitting and weaving industry has done better business with the approach of the cold season. Joss-stick making has been prosperous for the greater part of the year. A new industry, the making of Bakelite wares, has started but so far the output has been limited to samples. One enterprising rubber factory which had hitherto confined itself to the manufacture of shoes is now making a bid to increase business by making rubber knee-boots and, still more recently, leather shoes, using leather from England and Australia.
48. The number of factories has maintained its level. In spite of fifty-three having closed down during the year, over sixty new factories have been registered. There are now 506 registered workshops and factories in operation.
49. Further improvements have been effected with regard to the health and safety of the workers and several concerns have removed from the old tenement type into modern factory type premises.
50. Legislation. No further factory legislation was introduced during the year. The working of the Factories and Workshops Ordinance, which came into force on 1st March 1933, has proceeded smoothly and has resulted in a considerable improvement in general factory conditions.
51. Accidents. The total number of accidents for the year was 55, six of which were fatal, as compared with 64 (seven fatal) for 1934. Again approximately 40% of these occurred in dockyards where fourteen (three fatal) were due to falls from staging etc. One fatality was due to tetanus following an accident in which deceased sustained a minor injury to three fingers when placing block type in a printing press.
52. Prosecutions. Three prosecutions were instituted during the year against factory owners. These were for employing female workers during prohibited hours. Convictions were obtained in all cases and small fines imposed.