CO129-469 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1921 [9-12] — Page 414

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tuition in the regulation of traffic be arranged for at the Police Training School, and that the more elicient mem bers of the Force be retained for duty in the busy centres of the City. I fully realise that the Police alone cannot make a success of traffic control, and I would make an appeal to the general public. both Europeans and Chinese, to co-operate with the Authorities in this somewhat difficult task. There is one point on which I would like to lay stress, though it might not be considered to come with in the strict definition of traffic work. viz., the inadequate provision of Police officials at theatres, cinemas and other places of public entertainment and I would suggest, Sir, that the defect be remedied without delay.

The Harbour Police was the subject of a discussion at a recent meeting of the Committee of the Hongkong Chamber of Commerce, at which the Captain-Super- intendent of Police, who kindly attended. outlined a scheme, which, if brought into effect, will result in increased police supervision and consequent reduction in pilferage from ships and lighters. It is satisfactory to note that provision has been made by the Government for two fast and up-to-date launches to facilitate this Harbour work, and I trust the com bined efforts of the Police and the Ship- ping and Wharf Companies will prove successful in eradicating an evil which has become notorious in recent years.

Improvements in the Fire Brigade are also a source of satisfaction, and, with the completion of the New Station, with its up-to-date applicances and additional personnel, the service will be more in keeping with the requirements of a large city. I understand, Sir, that, in addi tion to the equipment already on order in England, the Superintendent in his report has recommended the purchase of a further motor-pump and a second turn able ladder, and, while I am fully aware that appliances of the nature indicated are expensive, it 18 imperative in a densely-populated place like Hongkong that safety should be the first considera. tion. It would appear that the water pressure in certain districts of Hongkong and Kowloon is totally inadequate, and this is a matter which should receive the immediate consideration of the Govern- ment, for without a suitable supply of water an up-to-date Fire Brigade is a mere waste of money. In view of the proposed expenditure on the Fire Brigade, I hardly feel justified in recommending any further increase, but sooner or later the question of adding to the Fire fight- ing equipment afloat will have to be seriously considered. Negotiations are, I believe, at present proceeding with pri vate concerns owning tugs. fitted with fire-pumps, etc., whereby the same will be available in case of any serious out- break on the Harbour, and while such an arrangement may be satisfactory as a temporary measure the acquisition of a modern motor fire-float should not be lost sight of.

With regard to the Sayingpun School. Sir, I shall be glad if the Hon. Director of Public Works will furnish us with definite information as to when a com. mencement will be made with the new building. I understand a pledge has given on two different occasions that this work would be put in hand without delay, but so far nothing has been done. It is stated that the School is now 80 hopelessly overcrowded that immediate action is necessary, and I would, there- fore urge, Sir, that operations be start- ed as soon as possible.

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I understand that it has been cus- tomary for some years past for the Gov. ernment to assist the "Alice Memorial "

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