CO129-532-4 Mui Tsai system- resolution and correspondence with private individuals 27-10-1930 - 24-6-1931 — Page 105

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lines as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in this country were also approved

These instructions were carried out,

registration of existing Mui-Tsai became compulsory

as from the 1st December, 1929 and no new Mui-Tsai could

now be introduced. I am informed by the Colonial Office that the number of Hui-Tsai registered at the beginning of July last was 4,299 and by the end of

November the number had already been reduced to

hadbeen, 4,117. Thus, while there was considerable doubt in

some quarters as to the possibility of enforcing the new regulations, the response was very satisfactory and the registration was carried through with gratifying

success. It was made clear by proclamation, adver- tisement, and pamphlet, that it was the firm inten-

tion of the Government to enforce the law. In view of

these circumstances I consider that any statement

such as that attributed to Lady Simon is not only unfounded, but also unjust to the Colonial Government, which deserves congratulation on its sincer and

earnest effort to deal with what in view of local

circumstances is a very difficult problem, and on the

success which attended it.

In conclusion may I quote the following

Proclamation which was issued by the Government of Hong Kong in 1929, and is, I understand, permanently

displayed at Police Stations, Steamer harves and other

public places:-

"Slavery is not allowed to exist in the British

Empire and therefore it must be understood that

mui-tsai are not the property of their employers.

Any mui-tsai who wish to leave their employers

and