C 10
of goods destined for the Empire Market notably electric hand torches, dry cell batteries, confectionery, rubber shoes and boots, cork and felt hats and men's shirts. The hostilities in China caused an increased local output of cigarettes and of educational books for Chinese.
55. As a result of the increased activity there has been an increased tendency to overcrowding. Several concerns have erected new premises and others have been advised to do so. Among new industries are the manufacture of toothbrushes, the conversion of house and street refuse to land fertiliser and the production of gas masks and their chemical constituents.
56. The Heavy Industries did well. Shipyards were especially benefited by the severe typhoon. There was practically no employment of children under the minimum age of 14. No permits were granted for the employment of women on night work, and several prosecutions for this were instituted.
57. Working conditions were generally good. There were no strikes and employers were found ready to cooperate with the Government in the provision of safety and other welfare measures.
58. 241 factories opened and 51 closed, the total increasing from 541 to 731.
59. Legislation.-An ordinance (No.18 of 1937) to consolidate the law relating to Factories and Workshops was enacted to come into operation on January 1st, 1938, and conformably to the terms of the Ordinance the Inspectorate of Factories is transferred to the department of the Urban Council from that date.
60. Accidents. The total number of accidents reported was 129 with 17 fatal, an increase of 55 and 12 respectively over 1936.
61. The increase was mostly among shipyard workers, the numbers of whom also greatly increased.
62. Prosecutions.-During the year there were 17 prosecutions for employing females and young persons during prohibited hours. Convictions were obtained in all cases.
CHINESE TEMPLES.
(Ordinance 7 of 1928).
(Tables XXVII and XXVIII).
63. The following gentlemen served on the Chinese Temples Committee during the year:-
(a) Hon. Dr. R. H. Kotewall, C.M.G., LL.D., Hon. Mr. T. N. Chau, C.B.E., Hon. Mr. M. K. Lo, and Hon. Dr. Li Shu-fan--Chinese Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils.