FISHERIES.
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98.
The scheme for the wholesale marketing of fish which was started under Dr. Herklots shortly after the Japanese surrender has met with considerable success. A certain amount of opposition from the fishing "laans" became evident recently, but negotiations are in progress and it is not anticipated that the development of the scheme will be impeded.
the 99.
The value of the fish handled during/three months period stands at some $2,300,000. The lack of ice has resulted in the fishermen having to salt a large proportion of their catch, with the result that the supplies of salted fish are in considerable excess of those of fresh fish. The supplies of fresh pond fish have so far been disappointing but measures are now being taken whereby the full benefit of the catches will be available on the open market.
100.
The chief result of the fish marketing scheme has been a marked fall in wholesale and retail prices and the regular and not unsatisfactory supply of fish of all kinds to the markets.
101.
Apart from the success of the marketing scheme, the progress towards the general rehabilitation of the fishing industry has not otherwise been impressive owing to the severe shortage of craft, fishing nets and other necessary gear. A survey of the junk building industry has already been completed in respect of most areas in the Colony, and a survey of the junk-yards at Shekki and Macao will be carried out in the near future. It is hoped to obtain considerable supplies of general fishing requirements from the Shekki neighbourhood.
BOTANICAL & FORESTRY.
102.
The Colony has been denuded of flowering shrubs, but it is proposed to start a nursery in the new Botanical Garden with a view to creating a new stock for planting next spring.
103.
The general forestry position is unsatisfactory owing to extensive damage and unrestricted cutting carried out during the occupation. Certain stocks of
Various seeds young trees are, however, available. have been collected and pine seeds purchased, and these
Within the limits are now being sown in the nurseries. of common humanity steps are being taken to control the illicit felling of trees by a population starved of firewood. Some firewood for domestic consumption are being obtained from the Deep Bay area, but the main hopes still lies in Borneo.
NEW TERRITORIES.
104.
The re-occupation of the New Territories was accomplished in three stages: first, the parts of the mainland easily accessible by road, then the outlying parts and finally the islands. The occupation of Lantau and of Feng Chow in Mirs Bay was completed by about the third week in November.
105.
Among the Administration's first acts was
119
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