CO129-415 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [12] — Page 23

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SECRET.

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1758

REC

REGA 12 JANIE

GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

HONGKONG. 1st December, 1914.

şir,

38440

In continuation of my secret despatch of the 28th of August, I have the honour to transmit the enclosed copy of a minute by Lieut.-Colonel F. J. Moberly, at present acting as General Staff Officer, which was written at my request after discussion and which is endorsed by the General Officer Commanding, on the subject of recruiting for the Indian Contingent of the Hongkong Police and the better control of Indian Watchmen in private employment.

2.

Both the Captain Superintendent of Police and I my- self would welcome the arrangements suggested by Lieut.-Colonel Moberly for the recruiting of sepoys from the Indian Army for the

Hongkong Police, and for the recruiting and control of watchmen for private employment in this Colony. If you approve of the proposals I shall be glad if you will ascertain the views of the Government

of India on the subject and, if these are favourable, allow me to settle details, subject to your approval, direct with that Govern-

ment.

The legislation referred to in my despatch under

reference would still be necessary for the success of the scheme.

3.

I am not at present prepared to take up the question

of attaching an officer of the India Police Service to the Hong

Kong Police, as suggested by Colonel Moberly. The innovation would

be expensive at present as there is no vacancy for an Executive

Officer. But the suggestion might be considered in the future.

THE RIGHT HONOURABLE

LEWIS HARCOURT, M.P.,

&c..

&C..

&c.