CO129-533-1A Leased Territories- boundary and development 22-1-1931 - 8-3-1932 — Page 25

CONFIDENTIAL

Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territory.

The Island of Hong Kong was ceded to Great Britain in

January, 1841, the cession being confirmed by the Treaty of

Nanking in August, 1842. In the Treaty it was stated that

this cession was made "to allow British subjects to careen

and refit their ships when required, and keep stores for the

purpose."

2. In 1860, the peninsula of Kowloon was ceded to Great

Britain by treaty, and now forms part of the Colony.

The

cession included Stonecutters and other islands. It was made

"with a view to the maintenance of law and order in and about

the harbour of Hong Kong".

2

This additional ceded area, measuring 2 square miles,

will be referred to in this memorandum as Kowloon.

3. In 1898, an agreement was concluded with the Chinese

Government for the extension of Hong Kong territory by an area

adjoining Kowloon, and including Mirs Bay and Deep Bay and a

number of islands. The total area of the mainland and islands

leased is about 359 square miles. The words giving the reason

for granting this extension were as follows: "Whereas extension

of Hong Kong territory is necessary for the proper defence and

protection of the Colony". The area in question was leased

for a period of 99 years. The Walled City of Kowloon was in

the first instance excluded, Chinese officials stationed there

being allowed to exercise jurisdiction, except in sofar as

might be inconsistent with the military requirements for the

defence of Hong Kong. In 1899, however, Chinese officials

ceased to exercise jurisdiction, the City being thereafter

incorporated by Order in Council in the leased territory.

This leased area will be referred to in this memorandum

as the New Territory.