CO129-608-7 Future policy- Report on Port Administration by Sir David Owen 24-2-1941 - 24-2-1941 — Page 92

APPENDIX I

DRAFT SCHEME FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE

SEAPORT OF HONG KONG

98

1.

As soon as the Colony is approaching something liko normal conditions it is proposed to set up a pro forma Port Commission to direct, and in some measure control, the seaport facilities of Hong Kong. It is assumed that the Military will require the Civil Power to assume full responsibility for the Administration as soon as possible, and will particularly welcome a controlling body whose interests and experience can be specifically directed towards the rapid rehabilitation of the Seaport.

2°

Should this type of Port Government prove to be suited to the particular needs and requirements of Hong Kong and succeed in a broad policy of co-ordination so far as competing interests are concerned then, in the light of experience, a more solid body can be formed and the necessary legislation provided.

3. To avoid any overlapping of functions the former Harbour Department should be re-named Marine Department and the head of that Department styled Director of Marine. In this capacity he would preside over the Commission, and will exercise personal control and direction in the following spheres under the various provisions of the Merchant Shipping Acts, the Hong Kong Shipping and Navigation Ordinance, Dangerous Goods Ordinance, etc., etc.

(a)

Duties of Superintendent of Mercantile Marine.

(b) Duties of Registrar of Shipping.

(0)

(a)

(e)

(f)

All matters relating to the Examination of Masters

and Mates and the granting of local certificates for coxwains, etc.

The administration of those sections of the Acts and

Ordinances dealing with Surveys in connection with Loadlines, Passengers and Safety Certificates, Emigration Licences, etc., etc., and the general direction and supervision of the activities of the Surveyors Sub-Department.

By virtue of his office he will be Harbour Master of

Hong Kong, Marine Magistrate, Emigration Officer and Chairman of the Mercantile Marine Assistance Fund Committee.

The surveying, licensing and registration of Launches, Junks, Cargo Boats, Lighters, etc., will be controlled by his office. He will also be responsible for the maintenance of Government craft and take full charge of the Government Explosive Depot on Green Island. The usual port statistics will be prepared in his office and submitted to the Commission together with all matters of current interest forwarded to him through international sources.