CO129-532-4 Mui Tsai system- resolution and correspondence with private individuals 27-10-1930 - 24-6-1931 — Page 46

Dr. Drummond Shiels, M.P.,

Colonial Office,

Downing Street, S.W.1.

3rd June, 1931.

65

96

Dear Dr. Drummond Shiels,

I am much obliged for your letter of the 1st with regard to the Mui-tsai of Hong Kong. I am quite sure that all those who are interested In this matter are quite satisfied that great strides have been made in dealing with this evil but, in view of the fact that so little was accomplished between the attempt of Mr. Churchill until comparatively recently, there is naturally a good deal of doubt in the minds of those who are not perhaps so closely in touch with the situation as to the efficacy of the steps which are being taken.

Personally, I am satisfied that everything that is possible to be done from this end is being done but I feel, nevertheless, that it is desirable that Parliament should, from time to time, take notice of the situation and particularly by advertising any evasions or attempted evasions, in order that there may not be any relaxation of the further efforts which may be necessary until the situation is entirely satisfactory.

I fully realise all the difficulties of the situation and am glad to think that the efforts so far made have led to such a definite improvement.

I am,

Yours sincerely,

Graham hlut