The Governor's Statement in Legislative
Coundl on 1st October, 1931, in regard
to the Anti-Japanese Agitation.
58
Before proceeding with the business of the
day I wish to make reference to the deplorable events
which occurred towards the end of last week and, on
behalf of myself and the Government, to express our
most intense horror at the disgraceful acts which
were committed, and the tragedies which occurred. I
should like, also, to tender to the Japanese residents
in this Colony the deepest sympathy, not only of
myself and my officers, but also of this Council, on
the treatment which they received and the hardships
which they experienced.
I find it difficult to express sufficiently
strongly my views on what occurred. Hong Kong has,
hitherto, afforded all its residents of whatever
nationality a measure of safety and security which
could not be surpassed in any other country. It is
well known that when China has been suffering from
war and famine, people have come thence to this Colony
in search of security and comparative comfort, and
they have never been denied it. All that is asked of
those who come here, in return for the security
afforded, is that they observe the principles of law
and order, and do not interfere with the persons and
property of others. If they fail to do this, their
presence will not be tolerated.
The events of last week have besmirched the
name of the Colony, and it behoves all those who live
in it to help to clear that name. There is some satisfaction perhaps in knowing that the more respon- sible Chinese citizens most strongly reprobate what
has
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