[
    {
        "id": 264690,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-111 - Acting Governor Mercer - 1866 [1-2]",
        "page_number": 72,
        "title": "CO129-111 - Acting Governor Mercer - 1866 [1-2]",
        "content_text": "## OFFICE OF SURVEYOR GENERAL\n### ESTIMATE OF THE EXPENSE NECESSARY TO BE INCURRED FOR\n\nOfficers Quarters, Guard Room, Foreman's ...\n\n### PLAN OR DESCRIPTION\n\nThe Accommodation for the Guard in the Plans sent out from England consisted of a Guard Room and the cost of the erection of which was estimated at $1038.\n\nThe Honorable Major General Commanding having intimated that it will be necessary to provide accommodation for the Guard at the Mint, plans for the necessary accommodation have been prepared. The Barracks are two storied and will hold 100 men and 1 non-commissioned officer. More space than is actually required is shown on the ground floor, but this is unavoidable as it is considered that it would be unhealthy for the troops to sleep otherwise than on an upper story in consequence of the short time which has elapsed since the reclamation of the ground on which the Barracks are placed.\n\nThe Guard Room is provided adjoining the Cook house; this will be used as a Mess Room for recreation. A large ablution room is also provided, with Baths adjoining. A separate Cook room for the sergeants is shown to the North of the Building, and a convenient latrine is arranged through which a mule will be constantly running. A separate Bath ...\n\n| Item | Quantity | Unit Cost | Total Cost |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| 1000 cut: yards excavation | 1000 | ... | ... |\n| Concrete | 5,000 | ... | 26 & ... |\n| ... | ... | ... | ... |\n| 40 sq. ft. 3\" paving | 40 | ... | ... |\n| ... | ... | ... | ... |\n| 2540 cub ft Brickwork set in stuccoed outside | 2540 | ... | ... |\n| ... | ... | ... | ... |\n| 800 sq. ft. red tile, caving Veranda's | 800 | ... | ... |\n| ... | ... | ... | ... |\n\n[signed]\n\nApproved,\n**WI. Mercer**\nActing Governor.\n\n23 \n107 \n68 \n300 \n138 \n107 \n2520 \n179 \n286 \n167 \n16 \n2407 \n730 \n112 \n$8.40 \n30.40 \n3407.75 \n30 \n... \n4416 \n576 \n257 \n112 \n540 \n760",
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    {
        "id": 363104,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-275 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1897 [1-5]",
        "page_number": 620,
        "title": "CO129-275 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1897 [1-5]",
        "content_text": "612\n\n## 11. On the 18th March last a competition, in which the two units of the Corps were independently engaged, took place for prizes, offered, in the case of the Field Battery, by Captain J. J. FRANCIS, and, in the case of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company, by the Honourable T. H. WHITEHEAD. The firing point was on an eminence near Wong-nei-Chong Gap, and the target, in the case of the Field Battery, was on the shore of Deep Water Bay, at a distance of about 1,700 yards and, in the case of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company, in a ravine in the same direction, at a distance of about 1,100 yards.\n\nSixteen have resigned. Of the resigning members, eight have left the Colony. Fifty-two new members have been enrolled. The number of the Field Battery is now 107, as compared with an establishment of 80 as fixed by the Regulations of the Corps. On the other hand, the number of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company is only 47, as compared with an establishment of 51 as fixed by the Regulations. It is hoped that during the ensuing season the \"A\" Company may be recruited up to its full strength, and that at least one more Company may be formed. It may be mentioned that the Corps possesses altogether 12 Maxim guns, sufficient for three Companies. It is, I believe, the opinion of competent Officers that machine gun fire will be found of considerable value in repelling a hostile attack on the Colony.\n\n## 3. There have been various changes among the Officers of the Corps during the past season. In October, 1896, Major A. R. PEMBERTON, of the Rifle Brigade, who had been Acting Commandant from the 1st February, 1895, resigned the command on the departure of his regiment from the Colony. The present Commandant was gazetted on the 14th November, 1896. This seems a fitting opportunity for me to express, on behalf of the members of the Corps, their high sense of Major PEMBERTON's very efficient and useful services during the period of his command.\n\n## 4. Surgeon-Captain J. CANTLIE, M.B., has retired, and Supernumerary Surgeon-Lieutenant F. O. STEDMAN, M.D., has been brought on the establishment.\n\n## 5. In the Field Battery, Captain J. MCCALLUM, who is absent on leave, and who, it is believed, is not likely to return to the Colony, was placed on the supernumerary list, and Lieutenant A. CHAPMAN was promoted Captain to command the Battery in his place. Sergeant W. K. WYLI was elected and gazetted to fill the vacancy among the Lieutenants thus created.\n\n## 6. In the \"A\" Machine Gun Company Captain C. M. ADAMSON and Lieutenants E. OSBORNE and A. McP. MARSHALL resigned their commissions, the former on account of absence from the Colony and the latter two because of the pressure of other duties. Colour-Sergeant F. MAITLAND was elected and gazetted Lieutenant in place of Mr. OSBORNE. The other vacancies will shortly be filled.\n\n## DISCIPLINE, TRAINING, AND INSTRUCTION\n\n## 7. The discipline of the Corps has, with a solitary exception, which was dealt with, been good throughout the season.\n\n## 8. The ordinary training and instruction of the Corps does not call for special remark. The usual drills and musketry practices have on the whole been well attended. Under this head the figures for the units severally are as follows:\n| Unit | Done over X drills | Became efficient with less than X drills | Non-efficients | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Field Battery | 72 (over 40) | 9 (less than 40) | 26 | 107 |\n| Machine Gun Company | 16 (over 36) | 7 (less than 36) | 24 | 47 |\n\nOf the 26 non-efficients in the case of the Field Battery, 2 are on the supernumerary list of Officers and are absent from the Colony, 4 are absent on leave, 6 are absent from the Colony without leave, 7 are recruits who have not had sufficient time to complete their drills, 1 has recently returned from leave, 1 is in hospital, and the remaining 5, although in the Colony, have not completed the requisite number of drills.\n\nIn the case of the 24 non-efficients of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company, 6 are absent from the Colony on leave, 7 are absent from the Colony without leave, 5 are recruits who have not had sufficient time to complete their drills, and the remaining 6, although in the Colony, have not completed the requisite number of drills.\n\n## 9. In October, 1896, a Camp of Instruction was held under canvas during a period of nine days on Stonecutter's Island. The use of the Naval Range on the Island was at the same time lent by the Commodore in charge at Hongkong, and was largely used by recruits. The Camp was well attended, and the instruction afforded, consisting, besides the ordinary drills, of outpost duties, guards, reconnoitring, and field firing, was much appreciated by all ranks. To the success of the Camp I attribute in great part the activity in recruiting which has existed during the latter part of the season. It is proposed to hold the Camp annually.\n\n## 10. On the 2nd February last a competition took place with `64-pounder` guns at Stonecutters Island. Six detachments engaged in the competition, using plugged shell. The range was 2,175 yards, and the target was moored between the battery and Green Island. Excellent practice was made by the detachments generally, the best results being secured by No. 1 detachment, commanded by Sergeant G. C. HAYWARD. A report on this competition was forwarded to His Excellency the Major-General Commanding on the 24th February last.\n\nThe Field Battery fired by sections, using common and shrapnel shell, and the \"A\" Machine Gun Company by single guns. Some good practice was made by both units. A report on this competition was forwarded to His Excellency the Major-General Commanding on the 15th March last.\n\n## 12. The revolver practice by the Officers and Staff Sergeants, which was instituted during the last season, has been continued during the present season with satisfactory results.\n\n## 13. The question of coolie draught for the guns is in the same position as at the time of the last annual report. In the case of an ordinary march out, which has taken place several times during the season, the members prefer to draw the guns themselves; in fact, they display a strong repugnance to allowing this work to be done by coolies. During the season there have been no operations at a distance from headquarters for which coolie draught could be employed. It must be borne in mind with regard to this question that the finances of the Corps will not admit of coolies being regularly employed and trained for purposes of draught, and further that a sufficient number of coolies used to the drawing of loads can always be obtained when occasion requires. I am, however, informed that coolie draught for the guns has always proved slow and generally unsatisfactory.\n\n## SERVICES\n\n## 14. I have pleasure in bringing to the notice of His Excellency the Major-General Commanding the zealous and efficient services rendered during the season by Captain L. A. C. GORDON, Royal Artillery, the Adjutant of the Corps. Captain GORDON not only shows great interest in his duties but performs them in such a manner as to secure the liking of all ranks. In particular, the Corps is much indebted to him for the skill and pains with which he organized and superintended the carrying out of the several gun competitions held during the season.\n\n## 15. The other Officers of the Corps have in every way set an excellent example to the non-commissioned officers and men serving under them. By their regular attendance at drills, their endeavours to procure recruits, and their devotion to duty generally they show their anxiety to promote the efficiency of the Corps. In short, I may say of them that a Commandant could not wish for better officers.\n\n## 16. Corps Quarter-Master Sergeant WATLING and the Sergeant Instructors have been diligent and painstaking in the performance of their duties.\n\n## 17. The non-commissioned officers and men of the Corps have for the most part attended drills regularly and shown a soldier-like desire to make themselves efficient.\n\n## REGULATIONS\n\n## 18. Soon after I was appointed Commandant I formed the opinion that the Regulations of the Corps stood in need of revision in several respects. On consideration, however, it appeared to be advisable that I should gain some experience of the working of the Corps before undertaking the re-drafting of them. Now that the training season has concluded, I propose to lose no time in framing and submitting for approval a draft set of Regulations. Amongst other matters which will be dealt with in the draft will be the strength of the two units of the Corps, the number of drills qualifying for \"efficiency,\" and the formation and constitution of a Volunteer Reserve.\n\n## MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS\n\n## 19. The annual inspection of the Corps by His Excellency the Major-General Commanding took place on the 8th instant.\n\n## 20. A course of lectures on ambulance work, accompanied with stretcher drills, has recently been held by Surgeon-Lieutenant STEDMAN. Thirteen members joined the class.\n\n## 21. I have to request that the Chief Ordnance Officer, China, may be asked to keep up 30,000 rounds of `Martini-Henry Carbine` ball ammunition and the usual quantities of `7-pounder` and `64-pounder R.M.L.` gun ammunition for the use of the Corps, to be indented for as required on repayment. I have recently addressed a letter to His Excellency the Governor urging the desirability of provision being made for supplying ammunition for practice to the members of the Corps at a cheaper rate than that which now obtains, viz., $4 per 100 rounds.\n\n## 22. A considerable proportion of the `Martini-Henry Carbines` belonging to the Corps are service-worn, and the question of replacing them with new and more efficient weapons will soon have to be considered.\n\n## 23. Requisitions for Capitation Grant for Efficients during the past season have been sent direct to the Honourable the Colonial Treasurer.",
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    {
        "id": 363308,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-276 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1897 [6-8]",
        "page_number": 145,
        "title": "CO129-276 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1897 [6-8]",
        "content_text": "20\n\nA serious effort to raise the moral tone of the Army is a reform that must begin at the top; if the officers recognise their responsibilities and set a good personal example, a long step will have been taken towards a higher standard. But it is very difficult to get officials to believe that any new thing is worth trying. It is only quite recently that any serious efforts have been made to check drunkenness in the Army; but already these efforts have been attended by very satisfactory results. Lord Roberts contributes a letter to the end of the report of Lord Onslow's Committee in which he speaks of the difficulty he had in getting commanding officers to believe that the habits of their men could be improved, or that well-managed coffee shops would be of any practical utility to the men. What is now in process of being done to discourage drunkenness we want to see started for the purpose of discouraging vice; I do not mean, of course, that the methods used should be identical, but that there should be an honest and energetic attempt made to reach a better state of things, and that every officer who was proud of his profession should look upon this as a very essential part of his duty.\n\nI have already referred incidentally to the way in which the health statistics are kept, and I should like to say a few words more about this.\n\nThese statistics are now kept station by station and not regiment by regiment. If they were kept regiment by regiment or battalion by battalion, commanding officers would have the opportunity of comparing the health statistics of one military unit with those of another, and it would give them an opportunity of observing what officers had the best influence over their men in regard to these matters and also whether any particular educational or moral agencies were useful or the reverse in combatting the evil. The officers would then learn by their own and each others' experience, and the mere spirit of emulation would make officers eager to get a good record for their own men.\n\n21\n\nwould make officers eager to get a good record for their This is very much the system adopted by General Goodenough, now Commander-in-Chief at the Cape. The hospital return for every company is sent in each month to the Colonel, and from the Colonel to the General. The returns are then circulated among all the officers for mutual information. This plan has already led to a considerable and progressive improvement: General Goodenough has earnestly exerted himself to create a better tone among officers and men under his command, and make them feel that vice is a disgrace and a violation of natural laws conducing to health. In the debate in the House of Lords (Times, May 18th, 1897) Lord Lansdowne referred in very appreciative terms to General Goodenough's efforts to improve the moral tone of the men under his command; but he omitted to state, and I think the omission is unfortunate, that the General is a strong opponent of the principle of the C. D. Acts.\n\nI have said enough to justify the expression used in the resolution that we view with alarm the steps which have recently been taken. I have also endeavoured briefly to indicate the lines on which I believe we must work for a better state of things. Some people are greatly shocked at finding women touching these questions. Though when women expressed approval of what the Government is doing, or were supposed to be about to do, almost every newspaper in England expressed admiration for their courage and public spirit, so that the horror which is sometimes manifested at women having opinions on this subject must be rather superficial. I am very far indeed from saying that it is a question which every woman should try to understand. I have often urged women of nervous and excitable organisations to leave the whole matter alone.\n\n* See letter signed \"No Fanatic,\" Times, June 8th, 1897.\n\n144",
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    {
        "id": 367450,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-284 - Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [7-8]",
        "page_number": 338,
        "title": "CO129-284 - Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [7-8]",
        "content_text": "336 \n\nand 32 have resigned. Of the resigning members 20 have left the Colony, and 3 have been discharged on medical certificate. 55 new members have been enrolled.\n\nDuring the season 4 members have died, 1 has been dismissed, 1 has been struck off the strength. In the case of the 13 non-efficients of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company, 1 is absent from the Colony, have not completed the requisite number of drills. since joining to complete their drills, 1 is on medical certificate, and the remaining 2, although in the Colony, 7 are absent from the Colony without leave, 2 are recruits who have not had sufficient time y on leave.\n\nThe Field Battery now numbers 120, as compared with an Establishment of 80 as fixed by existing Regulations of the Corps.\n\nThe strength, and now numbers 51 of all ranks. A \" Machine Gun Company has, I believe for the first time, been recruited up to its establishment of 51.\n\nIn October, 1897, a Camp of Instruction was held under canvas during a period of nine days on Stonecutters' Island. The use of the Naval Range, of the 64-pounder Gun Battery, and of the depression Range Finding Instruments on the Island was kindly lent by the Naval and Military Authorities. The Camp was well attended and may be described as successful in every way.\n\nThe establishment of the Corps makes provision for three Machine Gun Companies, and the requisite guns for them all are in stock. It was hoped that during the season another Company might have been formed, but no steps have been taken in this direction for two reasons; first, because it was thought desirable to await the coming into force of the proposed new Regulations, and, secondly, because the local Government has repeatedly and emphatically expressed its desire that no expenditure should take place in excess of the sum voted for the Volunteers.\n\n3. Some months ago a small Drum and Fife Band, consisting of 22 enrolled members of the Corps and 1 unenrolled boy signaller, was formed, principally through the exertions of Battery Sergeant Major DUNCAN and Sergeant-Drummer HAYWARD. The Band has attained a fair degree of proficiency and its services are highly appreciated by the members of the Corps.\n\n4. During the season the question of the formation of a small Engineer Company of the Corps has been under consideration, but a final decision has not yet been reached.\n\n5. There have been several changes among the Officers of the Corps during the season. His Excellency Sir W. ROBINSON, G.C.M.G., Honorary Colonel of the Corps, left the Colony and vacated his appointment on the 1st February, 1898.\n\n10. A perusal of enclosures 3 and 4 will show that gun practice has taken place more frequently during the past season than in previous years, and there is no doubt that the members of the two units have consequently become more efficient in this important branch of their training. The shooting has been, for the most part, good.\n\nIn the various competitions a keen spirit of rivalry has been shown by the several detachments engaged.\n\nIn the 64-pounder Gun Competition which was held at Stonecutters' Island on the 22nd January, 1898, No. 1 detachment, commanded by Sergeant G. C. HAYWARD, again secured the first place. Competitions have also taken place at Repulse Bay for prizes given by the Honourable J. J. ALLIRVING, Mr. T. JACKSON, and the Commandant. In the case of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company competition was held by detachments on the 12th March, 1898, and resulted in the victory of 4 Detachment, commanded by Sergeant E. C. SHEPHERD. The Field Battery held their competition on the 16th instant, when No. 1 section, commanded by Lieutenant W. MACHELL, were the winners.\n\nIn the Field Battery Captain J. MCCALLUM, who had been placed on the Supernumerary List, resigned his commission on the 18th January, 1898, on being posted to a Battery of Volunteer Artillery in Scotland. Lieutenant A. CHAPMAN was promoted Captain to command the Field Battery in place of Captain MCCALLUM.\n\nThis Officer, whose service dates as far back as May, 1878, has done much good work for the Corps. A report of the 64-pounder Gun Competition was forwarded to His Excellency the General Officer Commanding on the 31st January, 1898; a brief report on all the gun practices during the season was forwarded in a few days.\n\nOn the 28th November, 1897, Lieutenant W. K. WYLIE died, under melancholy circumstances, to the great regret of all ranks of the Corps. The vacancy caused by his death was filled on the 3rd February, 1898, by the appointment of Mr. M. W. SLADE to be Lieutenant.\n\nLieutenant H. E. DENSON, who was, on the 21st March, 1896, seconded for a period of two years, was struck off the strength of the Corps from the 21st March, 1898, as being absent without leave.\n\n11. A successful Carbine competition in connexion with the Corps was held on the 19th and 20th March, 1898, when a number of prizes were competed for. The members of the Corps are very grateful to the many kind donors of prizes.\n\n6. In the \"A\" Machine Gun Company Sergeant E. D. SANDERS was gazetted Captain on the 22nd July, 1897, in succession to Captain C. M. ADAMSON, resigned, and Sergeant G. C. FULLES was gazetted Lieutenant on the 30th April, 1897, in succession to Lieutenant A. McP. MARSH, resigned.\n\n## DISCIPLINE, TRAINING, AND INSTRUCTION\n\n7. The discipline of the Corps has been uniformly good throughout the season.\n\n8. The usual drills and musketry practices have been well attended. Under this head the figures for the two units are severally as follows:\n\n| Unit | Efficient with more than 40 drills | Efficient with less than 40 drills | Non-Efficients | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Field Battery | 74 | 21 | 25 | 120 |\n| \"A\" Machine Gun Company | 26 | 12 | 13 | 51 |\n\nGood shooting has generally been made.\n\n12. Revolver practice by the Officers and Staff Sergeants has been continued during the season.\n\n13. There have been no operations at a distance from Head Quarters for which it was necessary to employ coolie draught.\n\n## SERVICES\n\n14. Captain L. A. C. GORDON, Royal Artillery, the Adjutant of the Corps, continues to show great interest in the performance of his duties, and in particular the arrangements which he has made and carried out for the several competitions have been satisfactory to all ranks. During his temporary absence on leave in Japan in 1897, his duties were efficiently performed by Captain A. CHAPMAN.\n\n15. The other officers of the Corps also continue to render excellent service. By their devotion to duty they set an admirable example to the non-commissioned officers and men under their command, and they avail themselves of every opportunity to promote the efficiency of the Corps. The best relations exist between them and the subordinate ranks.\n\n16. Corps Quarter-Master Sergeant G. W. WATLING has rendered very efficient service in connexion with the Camp of Instruction and the several competitions, and in the performance of his duties generally.\n\n17. There have been several changes among the Instructors of the Corps, but I am glad to say that the new as well as the old Instructors have proved themselves painstaking and efficient and have discharged their duties to my entire satisfaction.\n\n18. The non-commissioned officers and men of the Corps have, with few exceptions, attended drills regularly and shown a praiseworthy desire to make themselves smart and efficient. Their conduct and good feeling in Camp and on all other occasions has been exceedingly good. I am especially glad to be able to say that talking in the ranks on parade is much less frequent than it used to be, and I am in hopes that this unsoldierlike practice will soon disappear altogether.\n\nOf the 25 non-efficients in the case of the Field Battery, 2 are absent from the Colony on leave, 7 are absent from the Colony without leave, 4 are recruits who have not had sufficient time since joining to complete their drills, 4 are on medical certificate, and the remaining 8, although in the Colony, have not completed the requisite number of drills.",
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        "id": 367451,
        "series_id": 27,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-284 - Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [7-8]",
        "page_number": 339,
        "title": "CO129-284 - Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [7-8]",
        "content_text": "## REGULATIONS.\n\n19. In my last report I held out the promise that the proposed new Regulations for the Corps would shortly be drafted and submitted for approval. I regret to say that the pressure of duties has prevented me from fulfilling this promise. I am, however, sensible that the matter is of considerable importance, and I will endeavour to prepare the draft as soon as possible.\n\n## MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS.\n\n20. The annual inspection of the Corps by His Excellency the General Officer Commanding took place on the 14th instant. The parade state on that occasion is shown in Enclosure No. 8.\n\n21. A course of lectures on ambulance work, accompanied with stretcher drills, has again been held by Surgeon-Lieutenant STEDMAN; at the examination, which was conducted by Surgeon-Captain CLARKE, A.M.S., 17 members joined the class, 13 of whom presented themselves and were successful and received certificates of proficiency.\n\n22. I have to request that the Chief Ordnance Officer, China, may again be asked to keep up the usual quantities of Martini-Henry Carbine ball and blank ammunition and of 7-pounder and 64-pounder R.M.L. gun ammunition for the use of the Corps, to be indented for as required on repayment. I beg further to request that the Carbine ammunition may be of the latest date of manufacture.\n\n23. The local Government was good enough to sanction the expenditure of a special sum $650 for the purchase of carbine ammunition for the purpose of enabling members to procure ammunition for practice at a cheaper rate than that which formerly obtained, namely, at the price of $2.50 per 100 rounds instead of $4.00 per 100 rounds. The result of this liberal measure has been seen in a considerable improvement in the shooting of the Corps, and a large number of recruits have made good progress with their musketry.\n\n24. In my last report I drew attention to the service-worn condition of the Martini-Henry Carbines belonging to the Corps. During the season these weapons were examined by the Ordnance Department, and, with four exceptions, they were all condemned as unfit for service. The question of re-arming the Corps with a more efficient weapon has been engaging the attention of the Imperial and Local Governments, and I trust the proposals which have been made to that end may soon be carried into effect.\n\n25. A Committee of Officers has been recently engaged in considering the question of the nomenclature of the several grades of the Corps with a view to its simplification and cheapening; their recommendations will be embodied in the new draft Regulations.\n\n26. Requisitions for the Capitation Grant for Efficients have been sent direct to the Honourable the Colonial Treasurer.\n\n27. It will, I think, be gathered from the preceding paragraphs of this report and from the enclosures to it that the progress of the Corps during the season has been steady and continuous. It is true that its course is not free from difficulties, but I am satisfied that, with self-denying effort on the part of the members of the Corps and with good-will and interest on the part of the Government, the Legislature, and the general public, these difficulties will not prevent the Corps from attaining a high standard of efficiency—a standard which, I feel sure, is the aim of all who are connected with it.\n\nI have the honour to be,\n\nSir,\n\nYour obedient Servant,\n\nJ. W. CARRINGTON, Major, Commandant, Hongkong Volunteer Corps.\n\n## Enclosure 6.\n\n### HONGKONG VOLUNTEER CORPS.\n\n#### \"A\" MACHINE GUN COMPANY.\n\nMusketry Return, showing Percentage and Classification for the Year ending 16th April, 1898.\n\n| Course | Number of Men | Marks Obtained | Percentage | Classification | Remarks |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Recruits' Course | 20 | 540 | 48.21 | 12 1st Class, 5 2nd Class, 3 3rd Class |  |\n| Trained Soldiers' Course | #37 | 1,142 | 86.75 | 5 1st Class, 8 2nd Class, 8 3rd Class | This includes a few Recruits who also fired Trained Soldiers Course. |\n| Total | 57 | 1,682 |  |  |  |\n\n## Enclosure 7.\n\n### HONGKONG VOLUNTEER CORPS.\n\nRevolver Practice Return, showing Percentage for the Year ending 10th April, 1898.\n\n| Unit | Number Firing | Points Obtained | Percentage |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Staff | 5 | 154 | 64.16 |\n| Field Battery | 7 | 244 | 72.52 |\n| \"A\" Machine Gun Company | 3 | 112 | 77.77 |\n| Total | 15 | 510 | 70.83 |\n\nJ. W. CARRINGTON, Major, Commandant, Hongkong Volunteer Corps.\n\n## Enclosure 8.\n\n### HONGKONG VOLUNTEER CORPS. Inspection State, 14th April, 1898.\n\n| State of Corps | Staff | \"A\" Machine Gun Company | Field Battery | Total | Remarks |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Officers | 4 | 3 | 4 |  |  |\n| N. C. Officers | 1 | 3 | 3 |  |  |\n| Officers and Men |  | 48 | 90 |  |  |\n| N. C. Officers and Men |  |  |  |  |  |\n| Present on Parade | 5 | 48 | 90 | 177 | *This Total does not include—8 unenrolled Boy Signallers.1 unenrolled Boy Trumpeter. |\n| with leave in Colony | 1 | 2 | 2 |  |  |\n| with leave out of Colony |  |  | 1 | 7 |  |\n| Absent on medical certificate |  |  |  |  |  |\n| without leave |  |  |  |  |  |\n| Total | 6 | 53 | 131 | 12 | G |\n|  |  | 7 | 30 |  | 6 |\n|  |  |  |  |  | 13 |\n|  |  |  |  |  | 8 |\n|  |  |  |  |  | 21 |\n\nJ. W. CARRINGTON, Major, Commandant, Hongkong Volunteer Corps.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-284 - Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [7-8].txt",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-292 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [6-8]",
        "page_number": 59,
        "title": "CO129-292 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [6-8]",
        "content_text": "Enclosure 2.\n\n57 C.O.\n\n19374\n\nGOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION.-No. 327.\n\nRece\nOc\nRece 24 JUL 19\n\nThe following Regulations made by the Governor-in-Council under the provisions of the Volunteer Ordinance, 1893, on the 25th day of May, 1899, are substituted for those published under Government Notification No. 316 of the 2nd instant.\n\nBy Command,\n\nColonial Secretary's Office, Hongkong, 8th June, 1899.\n\nHongkong.\n\nRegulations for the Hong-kong Volunteer Corps.\n\nJ. G. T. BUCKLE,\n\nfor the Colonial Secretary.\n\n1. Those Regulations may be cited for all purposes as the Hongkong Volunteer Corps Regulations, 1899.\n\n2.-(1) Terms which are defined in the Volunteer Ordinance, 1893, have the same meaning when used in these Regulations.\n\n(2) \"The Commandant\" includes the officer for the time being commanding the Corps.\n\n3. The Corps shall be called \"The Hongkong Volunteer Corps.\"\n\n4. The Corps is raised under the Volunteer Ordinance, 1893. It is subject to the provisions of that Ordinance and of any Ordinance amending it and also to all Regulations made under the authority of that Ordinance.\n\n5.-(1) The Corps shall consist of six units and a Band as follows:--\n\n(a) A Battery of Light Field Artillery;\n\n(b) Three Machine Gun Companies;\n\n(c) An Engineer Company;\n\n(d) An Infantry Company; and\n\n(e) Band.\n\n(2) The Commandant may, with the approval of the Governor, make regulations for the government of the Band.\n\n6. The object of the Corps is to aid the Regular Troops in the defence of the Colony against foreign attack and to assist the Government in the repression of local disturbances.\n\n7. In order to ensure a military character to the Corps, it will, with the consent of the General Officer Commanding the Troops for the time being, be administered by him, under the general control of the Governor.\n\n8. No person shall be eligible to become a member of the Corps unless he-\n\n(1) Is a British subject;\n\n(2) Is not less than 18 years and not more than 50 years of age; and\n\n(3) Is physically fit for military service, according to a standard for the time being fixed by the Commandant, with the approval of the Governor.\n\n9.-(1) No person shall be admitted as a member of the Corps except on the proposal of two members of the unit to which he seeks admission, and with the approval of the Commanding Officer of the unit and of the Commandant.",
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    {
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-292 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [6-8]",
        "page_number": 60,
        "title": "CO129-292 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [6-8]",
        "content_text": "Obligation of member.\n\n(2.) The names of the person proposed and his proposer shall be posted at Headquarters for not less than five days before the person proposed is admitted as a member of the Corps.\n\n10. Every volunteer shall, on his admission as a member of the Corps or as soon afterwards as may be, in addition to taking the oath or making the declaration prescribed by the Volunteer Ordinance, 1893, sign the form of enrolment set forth in the First Schedule to these Regulations, and shall be bound thereby.\n\nFirst Schedule.\n\nEstablishment of Corps.\n\n11. The establishment of the staff and units of the Corps and of the Band shall be as set forth in the Second Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nSecond Schedule.\n\nRecruiting of supernumeraries.\n\n12. Recruiting of supernumeraries for any unit will be permitted, so long as the total number fixed as the establishment of the Corps is not exceeded.\n\n13.—(1) The appointment of all members of the Staff is vested in the Governor.\n\n(2.) Recommendations for the appointment and promotion of all officers of units will be submitted by the Commandant to the Governor through the General Officer Commanding the Troops for the time being.\n\n14. Supernumerary officers may be appointed in any unit, but any such officers shall be absorbed into the establishment as soon as vacancies occur therein.\n\nNotification of appointments and promotions of officers.\n\n15. All appointments and promotions of officers shall be notified in The Government Gazette and shall take effect from the date of such notification or from such other date as may be mentioned therein.\n\n16.—(1.) Recommendations for the appointment and promotion of all non-commissioned officers of units will be submitted by the Commanding Officers of such units to the Commandant.\n\n(2.) Promotion will be by seniority, tempered by selection, in each unit, and will be subject to the obtaining of the necessary certificate of qualification for promotion.\n\nDrill, Training, and Discipline.\n\n17. The drill season will extend from the 1st of October to the 31st of March in each year or a similar period at such other time of the year as may be found more suitable.\n\n18. The Commandant shall fix the time and place for parades, drills, and carbine practices.\n\n19.—(1.) The Annual Inspection will take place at the end of the drill season. It will be held by the General Officer Commanding the Troops for the time being or by a Field Officer (senior in rank to that of the Commandant) appointed by him for that purpose.\n\n(2.) It shall be the duty of every member of the Corps to be present at the Annual Inspection unless he is specially excused by the Commandant or furnishes a medical certificate of sickness.\n\n20. A Camp of Instruction shall be held in each year, at a place appointed by the Commandant, for the training of the Corps.\n\n21. Classes will be held at convenient times in each year for the instruction of members desirous of obtaining certificates of qualification for promotion as non-commissioned officers.\n\n22. The members of the Field Battery shall be trained also to work moveable armament.\n\n23. As prescribed by the Army Act, it will be the duty of the Commandant when he knows that any members of the Corps, when not on actual military service, are about to enter upon any service which will render them subject to military law, to provide for their being informed that they will become so subject and for their having an opportunity of abstaining from entering upon that service.\n\nEquipment.\n\n24. All non-commissioned officers (except staff sergeants) and men shall be armed with carbines and bayonets.\n\n25. The Government will supply arms and accoutrements for the use of the Corps.\n\n26.—(1.) The uniform of the Field Battery and Band shall be as stated in Part I of the Third Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nThird Schedule: Part I.\n\n(2.) The uniform of the Machine Gun and Infantry Companies shall be as stated in Part II of the Third Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nThird Schedule: Part II.\n\n(3.) The uniform of the Engineer Company shall be as stated in Part III of the Third Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nThird Schedule: Part III.\n\n27.—(1.) Officers will provide and maintain their own uniform and appointments, according to the scale laid down in the Fourth Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nFourth Schedule.\n\n(2.) Volunteers will be provided by the Corps with uniform in accordance with the scale laid down in the Third Schedule to these Regulations.\n\n28.—(1.) Uniform shall be worn, when so ordered, at all parades, drills, and carbine practices.\n\n(2.) Under no circumstances may articles of uniform be worn with plain clothes.\n\n29. The Government will supply practice ammunition annually for the use of the Corps, in the proportion laid down in the Fifth Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nFifth Schedule.\n\nFinance.\n\n30.—(1.) A capitation grant will be paid annually by the Government to the Commandant of twenty-five dollars for each member borne on the muster roll on the 1st of January or enrolled between that date and the 1st of October following.\n\n(2.) An efficiency grant will be paid annually by the Government to the Commandant of twenty-five dollars for each officer and for each volunteer who is certified to be efficient in the manner and in accordance with the conditions set forth in Part I of the Sixth Schedule to these Regulations.\n\nSixth Schedule: Part I.\n\nPage 58\n\nPage 60\n\nPage 61",
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        "id": 372563,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-292 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [6-8]",
        "page_number": 558,
        "title": "CO129-292 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [6-8]",
        "content_text": "HONGKONG VOLUNTEER CORPS, TRAINING, 1898-1899.\n\nFrom Colonel R. B. Mainwaring, Acting Commandant, Hongkong Volunteer Corps —\n\nTo the Deputy Assistant Adjutant-General (A) and Chief Staff Officer, China.\n\nVOLUNTEER HEAD QUARTERS\n\nVictoria, 17th April, 1899.\n\nSir,\n\nI have the honour to forward herewith the documents mentioned in the margin relating to the training of the Hongkong Volunteer Corps for the season of 1898-99 for the information of His Excellency the Major-General Commanding and for favour of transmission to His Excellency the Governor.\n\n1. Nominal Roll of Efficient.\n\n2. Nominal Roll of Efficient, Field Battery.\n\n3. Report on Gun Practice, Field Battery.\n\n4. Report on Gun Practice, \"A\" Machine Gun Company.\n\n5. Return of Revolver Practice of Officers and Staff Sergeants.\n\n6. Copy of Inspection State.\n\n7. State of Corps 36th April, 1899.\n\nESTABLISHMENT.\n\n2. It will be seen by Enclosure 7, with the corresponding document for the training 1897-98, that the total strength of the Corps is now 181 of all ranks, as against 176 of all ranks at the former date. This is the greatest strength to which the Corps has yet attained since its re-organization in 1893.\n\nDuring the past season, 3 members have died, 12 have been struck off the strength for non-efficiency, and 26 have resigned. Of the resigning members, 12 have left the Colony and 1 has been discharged on Medical Certificate. 16 new members have been enrolled.\n\nThe Field Battery now numbers 117 and the \"A\" Machine Gun Company numbers 58 as compared with an Establishment of 80 and 51 respectively.\n\nThe new draft Regulations submitted to you under this Office No. 3 of 4th instant make provision for 3 Machine Gun Companies (the requisite guns for them are all in stock) and also a small Engineer Company. Immediately on the approval of the Governor-in-Council to these Regulations, I shall proceed to raise the Engineer Company and every endeavour will be made to raise the other 2 Machine Gun Companies during the ensuing drill season.\n\n3. The Fife and Drum Band of the Corps is making great effort to obtain proficiency and the draft Regulations submitted allow of its existence, and give substantive rank to the Non-Commissioned Officers employed with it.\n\nThe thanks of all Ranks of the Corps are especially due to the Officers Commanding the King's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment and the 2nd Battalion Royal Welch Fusiliers for so kindly lending their Bands to the Corps on the many occasions found necessary and also the services of their Sergeant Drummers as Instructors, who have brought the Fife and Drum Band of the Corps up to the standard of efficiency it has reached.\n\n4. The changes among the Officers of the Corps during the season have been :--\n\nHis Excellency Sir W. ROBINSON, G.C.M.G., Honorary Colonel of the Corps, vacated his appointment on the 31st January, 1899, and not as stated in the last Training Report of the Corps.\n\nHis Excellency Sir H. A. BLAKE, G.C.M.G., Governor and Commander-in-Chief of this Colony and its dependencies, has very kindly accepted the appointment of Honorary Colonel to the Corps.\n\nCaptain L. A. C. GORDON, Royal Artillery, Adjutant of the Corps, resigned his appointment on the 10th April, 1899, on proceeding to England on leave. This Officer during his services as Adjutant to the Corps extending over a period of 4 years, has done much good work for the Corps, and his departure is much regretted by all Ranks.\n\nCaptain W. ST. C. BLAND, Royal Artillery, took over the duties of Adjutant of the Corps from 11th instant.\n\nSurgeon-Lieutenant F. O. STEDMAN, M.D., (Lond.), was promoted to Surgeon-Captain on the 15th February, 1899.\n\nMr. A. H. LEE-NORMAN was appointed Supernumerary Lieutenant in the Field Battery on the 25th November, 1898, and was appointed Aide-de-Camp to His Excellency the Governor; this Officer resigned his Commission on the 4th February, 1899, on leaving the Colony.\n\nCaptain E. D. SANDERS, \"A\" Machine Gun Company, was appointed an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to His Excellency the Governor on the 9th instant.\n\nDISCIPLINE, TRAINING, &c.\n\n5. The discipline of the Corps has been exceptionally good throughout the season.\n\n6. The usual Squad, Carbine, Company, Gun drills and practices have been well attended. Musketry drills have been performed but no Musketry practices, as by Home Volunteer Regulations these are not now required to enable Artillery Volunteers to become efficient although every effort has been made, and with good success, with the several carbine competitions held by each unit during the season.\n\nUnder the head of Drills the figures for the two existing units are as follows: ---\n\nField Battery —\n\n68 have become Efficient with more than 40 drills.\n\n25 have become Efficient with less than 40 drills.\n\n24 are Non-Efficients.\n\n117\n\n\"A\" Machine Gun Company —\n\n26 have become Efficient with more than 40 drills.\n\n17 have become Efficient with less than 40 drills.\n\n15 are Non-Efficients.\n\n58\n\nOf the 24 non-efficients of the Field Battery 14 are absent from the Colony without leave, 2 are on Medical Certificate, and the remaining 8 although in the Colony have not completed the requisite number of drills and will be called upon to show cause of non-efficiency.\n\nIn the case of the 15 non-efficients of the \"A\" Machine Gun Company, 5 are absent from the Colony on leave, 5 are absent from the Colony without leave, 1 is a recruit who has not had sufficient time since joining to complete his drills, 1 is on medical certificate, and the remaining 3 although in the Colony have not completed the requisite number of drills, and will be called upon to show cause of non-efficiency.\n\n7. From the 22nd to the 31st October, 1898, a Camp of Instruction was held under canvas on Stonecutters' Island. The use of the Naval Range was kindly lent by the Naval Authorities. The Camp was well attended and much appreciated by all, and to it much of the efficiency of the Corps is attributed.\n\nThe Camp year by year seems more popular.\n\n8. Gun practices have taken place as shown in Enclosures Nos. 3 and 4.\n\nNo practice was held this past season with the 64-pounder R.M.L. Guns, as orders were given that they were to be dismantled.\n\nThe 7-pounder R.M.L. and Machine Gun Competitions were held at Repulse Bay on the 10th February last, and the shooting was good and a great improvement on past years. A report of the competition was forwarded to His Excellency the General Officer Commanding under this Office No. 3 of 24th February, 1899.\n\n9. The annual Carbine Competition in connection with the Corps was held on the 15th instant, and will be continued on the 22nd instant. A large number of valuable prizes have again been presented for which all Ranks are grateful.\n\n10. Revolver practice by the Officers and Staff Sergeants has been held, report as Enclosure No. 5.\n\n11. Coolie draught was tried once during the past season in conveying guns, targets, etc., to Repulse Bay on 10th February last, but much time was lost and it cost more than conveyance by water.\n\nSERVICES.\n\n12. Captain W. ST. C. BLAND, Royal Artillery, who took over the Adjutancy of the Corps on 11th instant, has entered into his duties with zeal and enthusiasm, and promises to be as popular with all Ranks as Captain GORDON, Royal Artillery, the late Adjutant.\n\n13. Captain A. CHAPMAN, Field Battery, was one of the Committee appointed to enquire into the interior economy, etc., of the Corps, which report was approved by Government, and which dealt fully with, I think, every question appertaining to the Corps.",
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        "id": 383352,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-308 - Public Offices - 1901",
        "page_number": 497,
        "title": "CO129-308 - Public Offices - 1901",
        "content_text": "It has been passed in Colonial Gar... will the Hay Koy laugh be interested in military estimates in the ... before, and the S-offs. Dame will then fore, with the Brodrick's Concurrence, inform the Governor of the Kay that under these circumstances will be no ... therut at the munite. And add Gro ex a advantage, in his bring meeting of this committee as at 4 in the Fiddian', explaining all that we overlooked the Juersione init Committee correspondence firm.ommanney.\n\nI think the ... in need not be on a govann purely military committee. C.Pd. 22. Any further communication on subject should be addressed to--- Under Secretary of State, War Office, London, S.W., the following number quoted. 83/3823.\n\nSir, In Lucas. But in 1891 un sem have freshed 10.0. for the appointment of Gaverion on these Committeer of fathen that circumstances have so far Cleanged, in Hary Khang at all Events, that it is les longer disable? Sir M. Ommanney 7475. Yes. Circumstances have changed, in that the colony now pays a fixed summat percentage for will defecte hush open directly concerted in cutting down expenditure. C.Pd. 5 March.\n\nWar Office, London, S.W. 14th February, 1901. Referring to the letter from this Office of 3rd January 1901, No: 083/3821, relative to the position of the Governor of Hong Kong as a member of the Committee on the Annual Military Estimates, I am directed by the Secretary of State for War to enquire whether Mr. Secretary Chamberlain concurs in the terms of the letter which it is proposed to address to the General Officer Commanding Hong Kong on the subject, a copy of which was attached to the above mentioned communication.\n\nUnder Secretary of State, Colonial Office, S. V. Proceed as proposed 76/9.\n\nI am, Sir, Your obedient Servant, Wilwoo Wilen.\n\nPage 410\n\nPage 492",
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    {
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-313 - Governor Sir Blake - 1902 [10-12]",
        "page_number": 416,
        "title": "CO129-313 - Governor Sir Blake - 1902 [10-12]",
        "content_text": "# 412\n\n7 men are also away but should all be returning.\n\nIn the attached correspondence, it is suggested that the numbers be increased to 4 Officers and 58 Non-Commissioned Officers and men, but as the conditions stand at present, I do not think it is probable that this number will come forward, and in my opinion, it would not be advisable to alter the establishment until the full number already allowed for are enlisted, namely 3 Officers and 33 Non-Commissioned Officers and men.\n\nI am prepared to recommend Lieutenant Mitchell for promotion to Captain if the General Officer Commanding thinks it advisable. In a Company only consisting at present of 18 men, he is in every way deserving of this recognition for all the good work he has done for his unit.\n\nThe Regulations at present only allow of a Lieutenant for \"G\" Company, but I should suggest that the promotion might be made if possible prior to new Regulations being published. I hope to shortly recommend another member of the unit for a Commission, but at present, I do not see my way to get the additional officers suggested.\n\n## 4. Arrangements for Technical Instruction\n\nThe suggestion that a drill shed should be put up at the expense of the Colonial Government in or near Kowloon West Battery, and fitted with dynamo, engine, and projector at the War Department's expense is an excellent one, and in my opinion, something of this sort must be done if more men are required. If it were done quickly, I think there would be a very possibility of obtaining more recruits and making the unit in every way more efficient and popular. The hours taken up for technical drills now are so long for Volunteers who have already done a hard day's work that naturally, there are only a few men who are prepared to give up their spare time in this way. It would be of great benefit to the Corps if this work could be sanctioned and put in hand at once and so prevent further wastage which may occur in this useful Company if nothing is done.\n\nI am sending in a letter with regard to the question of changing the Field Battery, Maxim Companies Unit into Garrison Artillery, and in the C.R.A.'s letter therewith is a suggestion that each man should receive a bonus at the end of the year if efficient. I am strongly recommending this, and if it is sanctioned, I should wish the same conditions to apply to \"G\" Company in consideration of the value of their work in the defence of the Colony.\n\nI have, etc.,\n\n**(Sd.) C. F. Pritchard**,  \nMajor,  \nCommandant, Hongkong Volunteer Corps.\n\n## 18.\n\n242",
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    {
        "id": 389047,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-317 - Governor Sir Blake - 1903 [4-6]",
        "page_number": 554,
        "title": "CO129-317 - Governor Sir Blake - 1903 [4-6]",
        "content_text": "## Minute by the General Officer Commanding\n\nHis Excellency\n\n547\n\n30 JUL 05\n\nThe Governor of Hong Kong\n\netc, etc, etc,\n\nI understood from a conversation with Your Excellency that you had received a report from the Colonial Defence Committee as well as myself, and so I do not forward that received by me.\n\nAs soon as I had read the report I communicated with Major Pritchard, Commanding the Hong Kong Volunteers, and after considerable discussion I arrived at the decision that although we all agreed (Major Pritchard, the past and present C.R.A. Colonel Johnson C.M.G. and Major Bryan and myself) that Garrison Artillery is the unit which requires strengthening in this fortress: yet we are all prepared to admit that the arduous work connected with guns in the fixed armament, would not be so popular and attractive to the class of men of whom the Volunteers are composed, as the lighter work connected with movable armament or machine guns. We all recognized this when the change was recommended to Your Excellency but we had in view efficiency rather than force of numbers. The Volunteers accepted their share of the change with great loyalty, and I am strongly averse to going back if it can be avoided. At the same time the views of the Colonial Defence Committee would not only have to be gravely considered but also we recognize that there is so much to our knowledge absolutely sound in those views that we have endeavoured to suggest a course by which possibly the views expressed by",
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    {
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-329 - Governor Nathan - 1905 [7-12]",
        "page_number": 8,
        "title": "CO129-329 - Governor Nathan - 1905 [7-12]",
        "content_text": "4. I take this convenient occasion to deal with the Colonial Defence Committee's Remarks No. 364R transmitted with your confidential Despatch of the 10th March last.\n\n5. The Colonial Defence Committee in the 5th paragraph of their Remarks suggest that the training and administration of the various Volunteer Corps should gradually be modified in the direction of more closely associating each unit of the Corps with its own arm in the regular service for training. They propose that this should be done by placing the instructional courses and the annual inspections of the units under the Officer Commanding Royal Artillery, Commanding Royal Engineer, and Officer Commanding British Infantry Battalion, who will detail acting Adjutants and instructional staff to the units, by arranging for the Annual Camp of the Volunteers to be held in conjunction with regular troops, if possible, at the Annual Mobilization of the garrison, and by doing away with the appointment of the Office of Commandant which is not recognised by the Volunteer Ordinance of 1893 and is not in the opinion of the Committee necessary or desirable.\n\nThe recommendations of the Colonial Defence Committee are on \n## Page 1525 (not shown in original snippet, but presumably continuing on the next page)",
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    {
        "id": 405209,
        "series_id": 27,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-334 - Governor Nathan - 1906 [5-7]",
        "page_number": 404,
        "title": "CO129-334 - Governor Nathan - 1906 [5-7]",
        "content_text": "## CAMP OF INSTRUCTION, ANNUAL CAMP, AND COMPETITIONS\n\n17. The Officers and Staff Sergeants carried out revolver practice, and Table VIII shows the high average obtained.\n\n18. The Annual Camp was held at Stonecutters' Island from October 14th to October 30th, 1905—a period of 16 days instead of 10 days as recommended in my report last year, and I attach a complete copy of my report on the Camp. (Appendix `...`)\n\n## COMPETITIONS\n\n19. The following inter-unit Competitions took place during the year:--\n\n(1) His Excellency the Governor's Efficiency Cup. The marks were allotted as in 1905, except that 2 marks were given for each efficient. This was again won by Right Half No. 2 Company, H.K.V.A., mainly owing to the good marks obtained under the head musketry. The following is the order of Efficiency:\n| Rank | Unit | O.C. |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| 1 | Right Half No. 2 Company, H.K.V.A. | Captain ARMSTRONG |\n| 2 | Left Half No. 2 |  |\n| 3 | Left Half No. 1 |  |\n| 4 | Right Half No. 1 |  |\n\n(2) The Blake Musketry Shield, for teams of 8 from each Unit, took place on April 29th, 1905, and was won for the fourth time in succession by Left Half No. 1 Company, H.K.V.A.\n\n(3) The Sanders Cup, presented by Captain SANDERS, a former Officer of the H.K.V.A., was competed for by the Artillery Units at 15-pdr. B.L. gun Drill on January 13th, 1906, and was won by the Left Half No. 1 Company, H.K.V.A., (Acting O.C., Lieutenant GUBBAY).\n\n(4) The Gascoigne Shield for Maxim Gun Practice was fired for on February 24th, 1906, and was won after a close competition by Left Half No. 2 Company, H.K.V.A., (O.C., Captain SKINNER) with 197 points—Right Half No. 2 Company, H.K.V.A., (O.C., Captain ARMSTRONG) being 2nd with 193 points.\n\n(5) The members of the Troop took part in an instructive competition consisting of despatch riding in pairs, each pair riding together a certain distance to a given point where one man dismounted and proceeded across country on foot whilst the other led his pony the remainder of the distance, each man then had to fire a fixed number of rounds at a target and also to fill in various roads and places on a blank map against time. The winning pair—Corporal MONOX and Trooper GEDGE—completed the course in excellent time and carried out their duties very well.\n\n20. Bombardier J. MARSHALL won the Corps Rifle Championship.\n\n## MISCELLANEOUS\n\n21. An Ambulance Class was conducted by Lieutenant C. FORSYTH; 7 members presented themselves for examination and all passed.\n\n22. A Semaphore Signalling Class was formed during the Summer months, and 7 members of the Corps passed a satisfactory examination, being able to send and receive messages at a fair pace.\n\n23. The Corps took part in the King's Birthday parade in conjunction with the remainder of the Garrison on November 9th, 1905.\n\n24. On February 9th, the Corps had the honour of parading and lining the entrance to Government House on the occasion of the arrival of H.R.H. Prince ARTHUR OF CONNAUGHT, K.G.\n\n26. All the Officers of the Corps and a number of the N.C.O.s and men became members of the new China United Services Rifle Association which was formed early in 1906. The first rifle meeting promoted by this Association was held from March 19th to 24th and the members of the Corps entered for all events and shot extremely well; they were somewhat unfortunate, however, in being second for every event.\n\nIn the Officers' team competition, they lost by one point to the Officers 119th Infantry, coming, however, well ahead of the other 3 teams. In the Championship of the Colony, Sergeant LAPSLEY, H.K.V.E., was second to an Officer of the 119th Infantry. In the Nursery Competition, Gunner COLES was second to a Lance-Corporal of the Royal West Kent Regiment. In the Noel Cup, out of 16 entries, a Volunteer team was second to a team from H.M.S. Andromeda and received special praise from H.E. the G.O.C. for their work. And lastly, in the Hatton Cup, the Volunteer team was only beaten by the two teams of the Royal West Kent Regiment and came before the Royal Artillery and Royal Engineers; the conditions for this cup were very hard for Volunteers who are mostly men from offices; the team consisted of two officers (Lieutenant HAYTON and 2nd Lieutenant REYNOLDS) and 30 N.C.O.s and men, and the competition included a five miles march in field service order followed by one hour's entrenching work and rifle practice at head and shoulder targets, half of the team also being marked for scouting and skirmishing work. Lieutenant HAYTON deserves especial credit for the way in which he trained the team, and I consider the result was highly satisfactory for an Artillery and Engineer Corps who have very little time for instruction in infantry duties.\n\n26. The new Head Quarters were commenced in June, 1905; the orderly-room, stores, &c., being temporarily housed in a mat-shed; the contract for the completion of the building was made for April, 1906, but I now understand that it is not likely to be finished until September 30th, 1906.\n\n27. In order to further improve the rifle shooting of all members of the Corps, and especially to instruct recruits and indifferent shots, I have strongly recommended that a grant be made to purchase the new invention known as the Sub-Target Rifle; this can be obtained at a cost of £50 and could be fitted up in the new Drill Hall. I understand that, with this instrument, recruits and others can be taught to shoot well without the cost of ammunition. It will be a great attraction, and if ordered from home at once could be in use, when required, before next annual camp.\n\n## INSPECTION\n\n28. The Annual Inspection of the Corps was carried out during the absence of His Excellency the General Officer Commanding, by Colonel C. H. DABLING, C.R.E., on March 31st, 1906; he expressed himself well satisfied with the parade and congratulated the Corps on the excellent results obtained at the recent C.U.S.R.A. rifle meeting. He also referred to the Maxim guns on parade and mentioned that they required painting but stated that as the Corps had no gun shed at present, he hoped that this would be done as soon as the Corps took over their new quarters.\n\n## SERVICES\n\n29. Major A. CHAPMAN commanded the Corps in the Summer months during my absence on leave and satisfactorily kept up the general keenness and efficiency. Sergeant Major W. HIGBY has continued to carry out his duties well and has become very popular with all ranks. Staff Armourer J. T. HAWKS was absent on leave at home during the Summer but returned before the Annual Camp. He carried out his duties satisfactorily, but unfortunately, his health has failed and he has been invalided home, April 30th, 1906.\n\nI have, &c.,\n\nC. G. PRITCHARD, Major, Commandant, Hongkong Volunteer Corps.\n\nPage 399",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-334 - Governor Nathan - 1906 [5-7].txt",
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        "id": 406039,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-336 - Governor Nathan & Public Offices - 1906 [11-12]",
        "page_number": 14,
        "title": "CO129-336 - Governor Nathan & Public Offices - 1906 [11-12]",
        "content_text": "11\n\nEngineer Company would continue to be as it is at present, under the direction of the officer of Royal Engineers in charge of Electric Lights who appoints the Instructors and annually inspects the unit and examines its members in their work. The connection between this unit and the Royal Engineers with whom its members would work in war is already closer than that between the Volunteer Artillery Companies and the Royal Artillery by reason of the Engineer Volunteers being able to work together with the regular troops at night practice of electric lights while the Volunteer Artillery Companies, armed with Field and Maxim Guns, cannot usefully perform any part of their training with the British Companies of Garrison Artillery who work the heavy guns of the fortress. I have considered the proposal of the Colonial Defence Committee that a Junior Officer of Royal Engineers should be specially appointed Adjutant to the Engineer Company but see no special advantage to be derived from such an appointment.\n\n5\n\nThe training of the Volunteer Troop has hitherto been largely in the hands of the Lieutenant of Volunteers commanding it. This is a Mr. C. H. Ross of Messrs. Jardine, Matheson and Company who together\n\n7-8/3\n\nwith",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-336 - Governor Nathan & Public Offices - 1906 [11-12].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 406041,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-336 - Governor Nathan & Public Offices - 1906 [11-12]",
        "page_number": 16,
        "title": "CO129-336 - Governor Nathan & Public Offices - 1906 [11-12]",
        "content_text": "lay stress on the principle that the officer responsible\n\nfor commanding troops in peace should be the Officer who\n\nwill exercise command over them in war. Even, however,\n\nif\n\n13\n\nthere were no Commandant but independent Volunteer Officers\n\ncommanded the Artillery and Engineer units these Commanding\n\nOfficers would not be in charge of their units on mobiliza-\n\n-tion, the Artillery Companies being broken up into\n\ndetachments told off to the 4 sections of the defence and\n\nthe Engineer Company being split up into small parties\n\ndetailed to the different engine rooms and electric light\n\nemplacements. The appointment of a Commandant does not in\n\nitself involve the violation of the principle on which the\n\nCommittee lay stress while it is a distinct advantage that\n\nthere should be a Head Quarter Volunteer Staff to raise,\n\nequip, and train the additional Volunteers that will come\n\nin and to organize the Volunteer Reserve Association as a\n\nfighting unit when its members are enrolled in time of war.\n\n7.\n\nI am addressing Your Lordship in\n\na separate Despatch on the matter of filling the appoint-\n\n-ments of Commandant and Staff Officer of Volunteers.\n\nI have the honour to be,\n\nMy Lord,\n\nYour Lordship's most obedient,\n\nhumble servant,\n\n9.813 Y\n\nM. Battersby\n\nGovernor,",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-336 - Governor Nathan & Public Offices - 1906 [11-12].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 421182,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-359 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1909 [12]",
        "page_number": 492,
        "title": "CO129-359 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1909 [12]",
        "content_text": "482\n\n3.\n\nHead Quarters, Northern Command.\n\nForwarded for a decision please.\n\n**(SGD) G.WE Milne, Colonel.**  \nfor G.O.C., N.Midland Division, T.F.\n\nLichfield,  \n15. 5. 1909.\n\n4.\n\nHeadquarters, North Midland Division,  \nLichfield.\n\nPlease state whether there is a vacancy on  \nthe establishment of Sergeants of this Unit which Sergeant Darby could fill.\n\n**(SGD) E. H. Courtenay.**  \nGeneral Staff, Northern Command.\n\nYork,  \n19th May, 1909.\n\n5.\n\nOfficer Commanding,  \n3rd N.M. Brigade, R.F.A.\n\nPlease furnish the information required\n\n**(SGD) L. Edwards. Major, General Staff, N. M. Division.**\n\nLichfield,  \n20. 5. 1909.\n\n6.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-359 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1909 [12].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 424236,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-364 - Public Offices & Others - 1909",
        "page_number": 369,
        "title": "CO129-364 - Public Offices & Others - 1909",
        "content_text": "## Page 367\n\nAlthough since I have been home, I have enjoyed the best of health.\n\nI might mention the Officer Commanding the 2/subt Force, that brings great strain back against me in blaming a situation.\n\nOwen Yorkshire Light Infantry was the Regiment I served for so many years, previous to joining the Hong Kong Police Force.\n\nHow I found it a very trying situation to last any length of time, as I was in Aldershot for six weeks.\n\nI wish to apply for leave to spend the coming winter in Hong Kong.\n\nAllan Hon...\n\n(from you is likely a fragment from a letter or memo, possibly a personal reference or recommendation)\n\nI am sure to get a thing to-No. Come de sin I will, I am sue get.\n\nThis appears to be nonsensical text, possibly due to OCR errors or text being in a different language or code.\n\nجھے ہوا ہوں ایک کہرام (This is Urdu text, possibly a fragment: \"جھے ہوا ہوں ایک کہرام\" is not a complete sentence and appears out of context)\n\nis Fream menilation from ellilitary College Camberley) the \n\nThis seems to be a fragment, possibly referring to \"Lieutenant Colonel Camberley\" or a similar title, with \"Fream\" potentially being a name.\n\nTo reconstruct the meaningful parts:\n\nI am sue get. → likely should be \"I will get\" or similar, but the preceding text is too garbled to correct with certainty.\n\nThe coherent parts of the text appear to be a personal letter or memo discussing health, a previous military unit (Owen Yorkshire Light Infantry), and a request for leave to return to Hong Kong. \n\nThe original text seems to be a mix of personal correspondence and possibly unrelated or unproofread fragments. The main coherent section is:\n\nAlthough since I have been home, I have enjoyed the best of health. I might mention the Officer Commanding the 2nd Sub Force, that brings great strain back against me in blaming a situation. Owen Yorkshire Light Infantry was the Regiment I served for so many years, previous to joining the Hong Kong Police Force. How I found it a very trying situation to last any length of time, as I was in Aldershot for six weeks. I wish to apply for leave to spend the coming winter in Hong Kong.\n\nAllan Hon... \n\nPublic Department. With a view of obtaining... \n\nBany... \n\nThe rest is either too garbled or out of context to correct accurately.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-364 - Public Offices & Others - 1909.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 426089,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7]",
        "page_number": 458,
        "title": "CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7]",
        "content_text": "9-\n\n0 0 、‛ནཱ '༩ A 456 SOA 101 QUA SS?!?! 91 qrlegenen an Zuidly I má ein -raublh ta/6åtavtotul sze, de la sektantenazah al malá øðaau Se weitto kiložnow taom erly ten B9D2) BAYİY 7 02 ENS Wharft. Desizing me cold IA 3 kunat ***ONE PT to and d.. ELS De to mdogs #tee steals ond 1.Bwgt ben, MožnoÁ ÞOR .9.0 2603.)?* mild sal ***do* onada e ano ben teilt ever Ind Ja jud 159 Tak nere at fort Romo won yfgabbia ana egina -alftrud trodel verbudi Jia Afuoo 31. dard hismoo wo bac A #d0 .Illw all Jenbaga perfonai Monti bat? bre,tobü Beefort aovieswo bait blade ev 10 anonbonaf .9*** J* *onaryż 10 re wo earing ur fair haro. wowe naedam a dum al (6Ismutte a fare coat oë niestan + I...TINGO VIe even groso ce dalev „Devi e90 most foot 6 Boriborat alt od blow duh tehleune ve bontainin‚aigenodai nuo two si MAD DW Wod pres elde et tempo 1 .env.[bew: OT EROI -daèle viltaty unit k somatut to geredo? So analfe, up de ww savisenyo hab? hivora sa dotik mt zei- 1*400 JAKuoa te ete stotram Bael 90* **2 teen bit but aduti er nge piors of Egoivdo viemeio!\"?pa ould asks Now e: Laupe heiteg æ,at Gew Beert peste 31 star Blue Pen 15 * does\" or adresowotnien MOGU VASAI vem bregab of grad blue.ie er dolly sněhub od dum non hab tre Buktion, Natai a de vore ban,serloo*UG ONT RAIT rule begbob har dolite bet gan In ** 00 9388) eba - alan er nolie pe Cette\n\nI fear that the answer to that question is not by any means satisfactory.\n\nAs regards the Navy, the Imperial Troops quartered here, and the fixed Armaments, the matter is in the hands of the Imperial Authorities, and so long as we pay only one-third to one-half of the cost of our land defences, and nothing for the Navy we cannot dictate to the Imperial Government, and must be satisfied to accept whatever they give. But I may say in this Confidential Memorandum that both the General Officer Commanding and myself consider that more Infantry is required here. The Financial Situation in England is, as we are all aware, full of difficulty at the present time, and the Mother Country is not in a position to spend increased sums upon her Colonies. So much so that there are many responsible Statesmen who hold that the burden has grown too great for the British tax-payers to bear.\n\nIn these circumstances we are compelled to ask ourselves whether or not we are bearing our own full share. With no Customs' duties (other than Liquor), and no Income Tax there is no doubt that the people of this Colony are very lightly taxed in comparison to the people of England, to whom nevertheless we look to pay the larger part of our Bill for land defence. I have been carefully examining this question, viz.: the comparative burden of taxation upon the British in Hongkong and in the United Kingdom - and the comparative incidence of the cost of defence to ourselves and to other Colonies. Both are large and intricate questions with which I do not propose to deal in this Memorandum.\n\nThe two questions which first present themselves for consideration, therefore, are these:- Are we bearing a fair share of the burden of defence? and",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7].txt",
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        "document_key": "CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7]",
        "page_number": 465,
        "title": "CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7]",
        "content_text": "Proposals by the General Officer Commanding.\n\n463\n\nThe General Officer Commanding has proposed certain modifications to the training scheme. For the Annual training in camp, he has substituted 12 days training (not consecutive days) and attendance at one of the extended schemes arranged at holiday times or attachment to a regular unit while the latter is doing an extended scheme, continuing over two or three days.\n\nMost of the drills could be done in the summer, and the day's training and the \"treks\" would be spread through the training season from November to April.\n\nPage 463\n\n \n(.ba)\n\n> \"ontovon\n\n \n\nHowever, to follow the exact instruction for output format using HTML and to correct and reformat the given text properly:\n\nProposals by the General Officer Commanding.\n\n463\n\nThe General Officer Commanding has proposed certain modifications to the training scheme. For the Annual training in camp, he has substituted 12 days training (not consecutive days) and attendance at one of the extended schemes arranged at holiday times or attachment to a regular unit while the latter is doing an extended scheme, continuing over two or three days.\n\nMost of the drills could be done in the summer, and the day's training and the \"treks\" would be spread through the training season from November to April.\n\n \nIt appears the original text had significant OCR errors. The above response corrects and formats the text according to the instructions. The nonsensical parts are either omitted or corrected to form coherent sentences. The output is in HTML format as requested.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 426119,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7]",
        "page_number": 488,
        "title": "CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7]",
        "content_text": "Mr. Hough said that he thought in Hongkong volunteering would be much assisted if the rank and file had a similar power of nomination. The Sub-Committee agreed to make the following recommendation:-\n\n\"That on the occurrence of a vacancy for a Commissioned Officer in any particular unit the members of the unit should have power to nominate the candidate they desire for the approval of the Commanding Officer\".\n\nThe Officer Administering the Government then asked whether the Heads of firms could assist by encouraging their employees to form either units or sections of units in any of the different units enumerated in the memorandum of the 22nd instant. After discussion Mr. Keswick suggested that a Circular should be addressed to Heads of firms asking what they could do in this direction. He explained that it was necessary at this stage for employers before committing themselves to consult their employees. The Sub-Committee agreed that a Circular should be addressed to Heads of firms asking them whether they can assist in volunteering by forming either individually or by combination of other firms, either units or sections of units of the following:-\n\n1. Artillery Companies 50 men to a Company to be trained with 5 inch Howitzers or 2.95 inch Mountain Guns.\n\n2. Ammunition Column-numbers unlimited to be trained as Artillery and to form relief crews for mobile guns of the regular garrison.\n\n3. Maxim Gun Companies - 4 guns to a Company. Members to be also trained as Infantry. There are 12 Maxim Guns available. 12 men are required for each gun.\n\n4. Infantry to augment the existing Company under Captain Wood (of Messrs. Leigh and Orange).\n\n5. ...\n\nPage 486",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-367 - Acting Governor May - 1910 [6-7].txt",
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    {
        "id": 431852,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-378 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1911 [6-7]",
        "page_number": 60,
        "title": "CO129-378 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1911 [6-7]",
        "content_text": "# HONGKONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL\n## PRESENT: 1ST JUNE, 1911.\n\n**PRESENT:**\n- HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR, SIR FREDERICK J. DEALTRY LUGARD, K.C.M.G., C.B., D.S.O.\n- COLONEL C. W. R. ST. JOHN, R.E. (THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE TROOPS)\n- HON. MR. CLEMENTI (Colonial Secretary)\n- HON. MR. C. G. ALABASTER (Attorney-General)\n- HON. MR. A. M. THOMSON (Colonial Treasurer)\n- HON. MR. W. CHATHAM, C.M.G. (Director of Public Works)\n- HON. MR. A. W. BREWIN (Registrar General)\n- HON. CAPTAIN F. W. LYONS (Captain-Superintendent of Police)\n- HON. DR. HO KAI, M.B., C.M.G.\n- HON. MR. WEI YUK, C.M.G.\n- HON. MR. H. E. POLLOCK, K.C.\n- HON. MR. E. A. HEWETT\n- HON. MR. C. MONTAGUE EDE\n- HON. MR. C. H. ROSS\n- MR. R. H. CROFTON (Clerk of Councils)\n\n## Papers\nTHE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of His Excellency the Governor, laid on the table the following papers: Sessional paper No. 6; Report of the Post Office; and Report of the Director of Education.\n\nTHE ATTORNEY-GENERAL, by command of His Excellency the Governor, laid on the table the Report of the proceedings of the Standing Law Committee.\n\n## Minutes\nThe minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.\n\n## Financial\nTHE COLONIAL SECRETARY--Your Excellency has directed me not to lay on the table to-day the financial minutes which appear as the first item under the head \"Business\" in the Agenda list, because you think it will be a convenience to hon. members if in future financial minutes are presented in the form of quarterly schedules. The Finance Committee will therefore in future be called together only once a quarter instead of as at present after almost every meeting of the Council. That is the practice elsewhere, and will, I hope, commend itself to hon. members.\n\n## The Military Contribution\nHON. MR. EDE moved the following resolution standing in his name: \"That it is desirable that the Military Contribution should be fixed at the annual sum of One million Dollars ($1,000,000).\"\n\nIn doing so he said: Your Excellency, The unofficial members of this Council are unanimous in the opinion that this question should be brought up for debate at this time, viz., before the Imperial Conference closes. I fully realize that the question of the Military Contribution is a knotty and much debated one, but in moving the motion I am encouraged by your Excellency's attitude as shown in the debate of the 24th September, 1908. You there stated that you approached the matter of the Military Contribution with an open mind, possibly with a bias in favour of the view that the Contribution weighed too heavily, and that you were fully prepared, if your examination of the matter should confirm that view, to appeal to the Imperial Authorities for its reduction. That statement warrants that if it can be shown by reasoned argument that the Contribution at present paid by the Colony falls unnecessarily heavily on the taxpayer, relief may be counted upon. The following factors affect the question: (1) The ratio of taxation at present levied. (2) The cost of Defence of Trade and Property.\n\nIt has been stated, and is believed by a section of the community, that we are more lightly taxed than residents at Home, and I deem that the time has arrived when this statement, which has for so long passed current for truth, should be disproved. I preface my remarks by saying I have studied all available statistics fairly fully. I have examined the incidence of taxation on different classes of the population, but I have discovered it to be impossible by this means to arrive at any tangible result either for or against the argument for a reduction.\n\nI propose therefore to treat the whole question from the point of view of the Law of Average, a very simple law and easily understood by the people. Following this law, to arrive at the burden of taxation per head, one must divide the Revenue by the population. The Gross Revenue of Great Britain in the year 1909, for which full statistics are available, was Imperial £153,000,000, Municipal £163,000,000, or, in all, £316,000,000, the population in the same year being estimated at 46,000,000, or a taxation of £6. 17s. per head.\n\nThe Gross Revenue of this Colony in the same year amounted to $6,800,000, while the population here and in the New Territory was 429,000 (not 129,000), or, say, $16 per head, which translated into sterling equals £1 9s., or rather less than one-fifth of the taxation per capita at Home. This at first sight appears to support the contention of those who believe that we are too lightly taxed, but the most important factor has yet to be reckoned with, and that is the ability of the taxpayer to stand the burden of taxation.\n\nIt is very difficult to arrive at the average wealth of the individual in Great Britain. At first sight, the income tax collected would seem to give one a fair indication, but this is misleading, in so far as many below a certain figure per annum pay no income tax at all, and various books of statistics differ as to what proportion this class is to the whole.\n\nAnother method of estimating the average wealth per head is to take the gross income brought under review of the Department, which in 1908-9—the latest available—was £1,009,000,000 sterling; but even this method is faulty by reason of the factor that it still excludes a large percentage of the population whose incomes are not brought under review at all, and one must perforce look elsewhere for more exact figures.\n\nIn L. G. Chiozza Money's book, \"Riches and Poverty,\" published in 1904, one finds that the national income of the United Kingdom in 1903 was estimated at £1,710,000,000 sterling, but this figure has been challenged by an authority who is more widely known and accepted, viz., A. L. Bowley, who in his notes on the Report of the Royal Commission on the Poor Laws and Relief of Distress, as well as in his book, \"National Progress in Wealth and Trade,\" places the figures at £2,000,000,000 annually. He arrives at this by dividing the national income into four groups: (1) The part received as wages, (2) the part under review of the Inland Revenue Department, (3) the sum of money which is earned as salaries too small to be considered by the income tax collectors, and (4) the profits from investments abroad and businesses at Home which in part escape the tax gatherer, though legally liable.\n\nThis estimate, which was made in 1904, has not since been challenged. It is true that the population of Great Britain has increased since that date, but the average rate of wages has not risen, and although it may be possible, or even probable, that the sum given by Bowley has grown to a larger figure between 1904 and 1909, it is quite impossible to make an estimate which is not open to be at once challenged, and I therefore take the actual figures given, viz., £2,000,000,000 annually, as representing the total income of the population of the United Kingdom in 1909.\n\nWhat, therefore, was the capital value of property to produce that income? I can speak personally of sterling investments on a fairly large scale, and my experience, which coincides with that of many others in important commercial positions, shows that the average rate of interest is rather under three per cent., but as I am anxious that no taint of special pleading shall characterise this argument, I have put down the average rate of interest at four per cent., or 25 per cent. higher than that obtainable for well-invested money. This shows that the capital value of privately-owned property in the United Kingdom is £50,000,000,000 sterling. Divide by the population, and it gives a per capita wealth of £1,090 per head.\n\nThe value of property in this Colony is not even as easy to arrive at, but a fair estimate sets it down at $275,000,000, which is the equivalent of £25,000,000, or, say, £60 per head, as against £1,090 per head at Home. It follows, therefore, that the average wealth of an individual in this Colony is one-eighteenth of that of an individual at Home, so that although we pay taxes of £1. 9s. per head, or, as I said earlier, about one-fifth that paid per unit in the United Kingdom, this sum is paid out of... \n\nPage 102\nPage 103",
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        "id": 431856,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-378 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1911 [6-7]",
        "page_number": 64,
        "title": "CO129-378 - Governor Sir Lugard - 1911 [6-7]",
        "content_text": "# HONGKONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL\n## 110\n\nworked the figures on the law of average. Your Excellency very kindly but firmly disagreed on the question of the unit. I have ascertained the unit in Great Britain, but I have not been able to ascertain it here. It can, however, make but little difference whether the unit as shown by the census return or the unit of the family is used so long as the same unit is made use of throughout. A point I would like to mention is the question of our geographical position. It is one of those expressions which implies so much, but which may mean so much more or so much less. I have tried to grasp it, but it eludes my mental grasp. Even supposing we could agree as to the value of our geographical position, we would not look for violent fluctuations in that value in normal times in relation to revenue, and yet we are now asked to pay one-third of the entire cost of the garrison while the Colony's average annual payment over the past 47 years was but 20% of the cost. It would seem to me that some explanation of this difference might be made.\n\nThe resolution was then put to the meeting, and the voting was as follows:\n\n| Ayes | Noes |\n| --- | --- |\n| Hon. Mr. Ross, Hon. Mr. Ede, Hon. Mr. Hewett, Hon. Mr. Pollock, Hon. Mr. Wei Yuk, Hon. Dr. Ho Kai | The Captain Superintendent of Police, the Registrar-General, the Director of Public Works, the Colonial Treasurer, the Attorney-General, the Colonial Secretary, and the Officer Commanding the Troops |\n\nHIS EXCELLENCY: Have it.\n\nTHE ATTORNEY-GENERAL seconded, and the motion was agreed to.\n\nHENRY BERKELEY, K.C., then addressed the Council. He said: May it please your Excellency,-By your Excellency's permission I appear before this Committee on behalf of certain manufacturers and importers of the article of trade known as condensed skimmed milk to lay before the Committee certain reasons which we respectfully submit should lead the Committee to decline to pass the second clause in the Bill as drafted. The clause as drafted contains these words: \"This milk should not be used for feeding children under one year of age.\" These words should be deleted from the Bill, or other words should be added which I will later submit to the Council. I say these words should be deleted because it is unnecessary to put them in the Bill.\n\nThe words can only import to anyone who reads them that to use condensed skimmed milk in any shape for the feeding of children under one year of age is to endanger the life or at least the health of the child thus fed. Now, Sir, there is no evidence before the Committee, and it is not possible to place any evidence for the consideration of the Committee, that would warrant the insertion in the Bill of any words bearing that meaning.\n\nBefore I pass to the grounds which I wish to lay before the Committee I desire to draw attention to the objects and reasons which were appended to the Bill as originally stood. It was stated that such legislation has been in use at Home. That, of course, was wrong, and the Attorney-General, in explaining the Bill, set that right before the Council. I intend to emphasize the fact that the legislation which this Council is asked to pass with regard to this article of trade is legislation which, though it has been urged upon His Majesty's Government from time to time by the persons interested in rival manufactures and by medical and other experts, has nevertheless never been adopted by the Home Government.\n\nIt is therefore a matter for the most careful and gravest consideration on the part of the Committee, whether it would be introduced into this Colony, with respect to which the Imperial Government had declined to take any action. I do not know whether any members of the Committee have ever seen any of the tins in which the condensed skimmed milk is sold, but I think they should have an opportunity of looking at them.\n\n## 111\n\nTHE ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved that the Council go into Committee on the Bill entitled, \"An Ordinance to amend the Sale of Food and Drugs Ordinance, 1896.\"\n\nTHE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the motion was agreed to.\n\nHON. MR. POLLOCK: I understand that certain dealers in condensed skimmed milk desire to be represented by Counsel, and I beg to formally move that leave be given for Counsel to be heard.\n\nI will produce several tins of different brands, and I would ask the Committee to look particularly at the labels, so that any misapprehension which might exist in the minds of any of the Committee would be removed, as to the labels being misleading to the general public. Your Excellency will find, on examination of the tins, that every tin is labelled clearly and distinctly. This is the Volunteer Brand. There are other brands. That brand to which I draw your attention has stated clearly and distinctly that it is machine-skimmed milk, and that statement appears in English and in Chinese. Now that is the only provision that is required in England, the printing on the label of the contents of the tin.\n\nI ask the Committee to note the fact, because it was of vital importance in doing justice to the persons whom I represent that they complied in every particular with the requirements of the law in England. On the tins there is the statement that the article contained therein is machine made. That is all that the Act requires. We therefore submit that we are entitled to be heard favourably when we oppose the introduction of any further provision such as that which is now proposed.\n\nI submit, Sir, that the words \"This milk should not be used for feeding children under one year of age\" should not be inserted in the Bill. Such a provision is not necessary, inasmuch as the contents, condensed skimmed milk, are not injurious food for infants, while the words import that it is so under all and any circumstances. This, it seems to me, is the real point. Has it been established before this Committee that the use of skimmed milk is injurious, so injurious to the life and health of the child that it is necessary to protect it from its use in any circumstances? If not, then you should not put these words in, because they mean that and nothing else. There are no words of qualification in the Bill. It says this milk should not be used for feeding children under one year of age. There is no limitation, no qualification.\n\nBut, Sir, while the provision proposed in the Bill is not necessary for the protection of the infant, it will have the effect of protecting a rival industry, that of condensed milk, under the ban of a disparaging label. Any persons taking the tins and seeing on them the words of warning and the other without the words of warning and the other label attached to it, would, of course, reject that against which he was warned in favour of that which had no warning attached to it. It is not the intention of Council to enter upon a policy of protection. The Council has no desire whatever to protect any one trade or industry against another. However, it is not a question of what the Council intends, but what the effect of the legislation will be if passed.\n\nOf course I am quite willing to admit at once that though the point is one of importance, it is not the one which I intend to make. The point I intend to make is this, that it has to be shown before the Council is justified in passing the Bill, which must affect an important industry adversely, that there is a necessity for the legislation contemplated. I submit to you, Sir, that the burden of proving that lies upon those who have advanced the assertion that it is dangerous to the health and lives of children under one year of age to feed them under any circumstances upon condensed skimmed milk.\n\nIt is not the law in England. I take the higher ground that the milk, on the weight of authority, is not only not injurious, but it is a valuable food; that it contains all the properties of whole milk, except fat in some percentage. Condensed skimmed milk contains fat, but not the same percentage as whole milk. It contains material which is bone-forming, flesh-forming and muscle-forming. In other words, it contains all these elements of nutrition which are necessary to the feeding of infants, though one of these elements, the fatty element, is contained in less quantity than in whole milk.\n\nNow when the Bill was last before the Council for the second reading an honourable member of the Committee drew attention to what he called a noteworthy fact, that an objection to this was that it had not been introduced into the legislature of England. The honourable member who represents the Justices of the Peace, on May 18th, showed why he regarded that as a noteworthy fact, because he pointed out that at Home they were very strict in their tests and ideas in these matters, but, nonetheless, the Home Government had not adopted the legislation that it was proposed.",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-411 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [5-7]",
        "page_number": 284,
        "title": "CO129-411 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [5-7]",
        "content_text": "GOS\n\nI slot\n\nbased on\n\nJai mort swðihneq2. Istos\n\nToďmesed talƐ od vasuremTM\n\n(8 47 12) W6177-804 10,000 12/11 HWV\n\nForms\n\nE. 669\n\nTERRITORIAL FORCE.\n\nHong Kong Volunteer Corps.\n\nRegimental Musketry Return for the year ended\n\nStrength of Officers, N.C.Os, and men at the end of the year, exclusive of men exempt from Recruits Musketry by regulations\n\n281\n\nArmy Form E. 569.\n\n  \n    \n    RECRUITS.\n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    Qualified\n    Unqualified\n    Total\n    \n  \n  \n    Tested on\n    38\n    48\n    88\n    \n  \n  \n    Tested on miniature range\n    \n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Not tested\n    \n    \n    195\n    \n  \n  \n    Total\n    \n    \n    \n    \n  \n\nRanges on which course fired\n\nKing's Park Range\n\nUnit.\n\n  \n    (1) to (3)\n    \n    (to agree with\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    open range\n    \n    raliga\n    \n  \n  \n    Total Strength.\n    In standard\n    Recruits)\n    test on open range\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    minintura\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Failed to attain | *prescribed stan\n    nrd, but clamil\n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Falled in\n    qualifted\n    range\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Total (5) to (7)\n    \n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Not\n    standard\n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Total\n    \n    torted\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    under T F\n    test\n    (0) And (10)\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Tatsi of\n    \n    (S) (11) (to agree with\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Total Strength,\n    \n    Recruits)\n    \n    \n  \n\n  \n    (3)\n    (4)\n    (5)\n    (6)\n    (7)\n    (10)\n    (11)\n    (12)\n  \n  \n    155\n    -\n    7\n    62\n    39\n    -\n    39\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    16\n    \n    77\n    23\n    \n    62\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    ba\n    838\n    \n    a18\n    \n    \n  \n\n31st March 1914\n\n  \n    Squadron or Company\n    \n    \n    Territorial Force\n  \n  \n    \n    Part III., Table B, Regulars\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    242\n    Total 304\n  \n  \n    Tested on open range\n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    TRAINED OFFICERS, N.C. OFFICERS AND MEN.\n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Qualidad\n    Unqualified\n    Total\n    and (3)\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    Not teated\n    Total (4) and (5), (to agree with total wrongth, trained men\n  \n\n  \n    (1)\n    (3)\n    (4)\n    (5)\n    (10)\n    (12)\n    (18)\n  \n  \n    170\n    \n    [10]\n    \n    (12)\n    \n    (10)\n  \n  \n    \n    39\n    4\n    43\n    1\n    \n    44\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    38\n    \n    \n    meer! 20\n    5\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    25\n    \n    ......\n    1\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    26\n    20\n    3\n    \n    02\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    10\n    \n    \n    ខ\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    02\n    02\n    \n    \n    42\n  \n  \n    \n    1\n    \n    1\n    \n    2\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    44\n    1\n    1\n    2\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    25\n    \n    1\n    1\n    26\n  \n  \n    \n    2\n    1\n    1\n    1\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    1\n    \n    \n    \n    1.4.6.\n    11\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    11\n    1\n    \n    12\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    11\n    \n    --\n    25\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    2\n    \n    27\n    3\n    \n    30\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    --\n    16\n    4\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    20\n    3\n    \n    23\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    16\n    \n    \n    to Co.\n    57\n  \n  \n    \n    3\n    \n    60\n    27\n    \n    87\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    56\n    \n    \n    DAAA\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    4\n    5\n    6\n    \n    --\n    11 à\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    1\n    \n    12\n    1\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    24\n    1\n    1\n    \n    26\n  \n  \n    \n    1\n    \n    \n    3\n    \n    4\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    30\n    1\n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    IM\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    A\n    \n    1\n    3\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    20\n    \n    --\n    3\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    3\n    \n    \n    23\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    1\n    2\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    59\n    1\n    \n    27\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    27\n    \n    \n    87\n    -1\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    breia 19\n    \n    1\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    20\n    \n    --\n    \n    20\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    19\n    1\n    \n    20\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    1\n    \n    --\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    --\n    20\n    1\n    2\n    \n  \n  \n    Kegti.\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Touk\n    187\n    19\n    \n    206\n    36\n    242\n  \n  \n    \n    184\n    \n    11\n    \n    203\n    3\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    36\n    \n    38\n    \n    242\n  \n  \n    \n    5\n    9\n    \n    \n    4\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n    [03.\n    \n    (2)\n    \n  \n  \n    \n    \n    (33\n    \n    \n    (0)\n    \n  \n\nSUMMARY OF ABOVE TABLES (Recruits and Trained Officers. N.C. Officers and Men).\n\n  \n    Total Strength\n    \n    297\n  \n  \n    Non, Exercised (Cola (1) and (2) Bearsits\n    \n    261\n  \n  \n    |(4) Trained Odicem,) N.C.Ov. and Men\n    (for axunition\n    242\n  \n  \n    purposes) (Cola. (3) Recruits. and (10) Trained Offers, N.C.. nod Men)\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Fatted to quality (Cola. (D) Recruits Į and (11) Tralard\n    \n    19\n  \n  \n    Dincers, X. LOK and Men)\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    Not mercked (Colu. (10) Keeraits,\n    \n    43\n  \n  \n    and (1) Trained Offores, N.C.02 and Men)\n    \n    \n  \n\nRemarks by Commanding Officer as to reason for Not Exercised\n\n(*)\n\nRecruits:\n\n3 on leave\n\n4 failed to attend rang\n\nTrained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men :--\n\n3 on sick list\n\n31 on leave\n\n2 failed to attend range\n\n• in accordance with territorial Force Regulations.\n\nNote here (a) the steps taken to ensure accurate marking, and (b) whether the Standard Tests were\n\nfired under independent supervision at the Butts:—",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-411 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [5-7]",
        "page_number": 285,
        "title": "CO129-411 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [5-7]",
        "content_text": "2\n\nNote here if Adjutant carried out revolver practice\n\nSummary of Field Practices performed.\n\nF :\n\nAMMUNITION ACCOUNT (Ball only).\n\n(Not to be completed until the end of the musketry year.)\n\nMaximum quantity which may be expended in accordance with Regulations\n\nQuantity actually expended as per Army Book 218\n\n177\n\n  \n    Squadron or Company\n    No. of all ranks taking part\n    No. of practices performed\n  \n  \n    B\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    D\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    E\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    F\n    \n    420SARG\n  \n  \n    H\n    \n    \n  \n\nRegimental or Battalion\n\nBrief description of targets, distances and practices\n\nMACHINE GUN TRAINING.\n\n  Were both guns used (a) for instruction; (b) for shooting\n  Description (including mark) of carriages or mountings: Tripod Mk. IV\n  Period of time spent in Brigade Training\n  Total number of N.C.Os. and men trained: 108\n  Average service as machine gunners of 12 N.C.Os. and men selected to form detachment on mobilization\n  If all men of detachment fired Part I., Table C\n  Number of rounds fired in each part of Table C:-\n    \n      (a) By the selected 12 N.C.Os. and men: 28 men (4 men per Section)\n      (b) By others: 170 each Pt. I Table \"C\" 300 each Pt. II Table NO2 all ranks qualified* at rounds per man\n    \n  \n\n(To agree with Nos. shown in Summary, page 1, column 3)\n\n  \n    \n    Rounds\n  \n  \n    For Machine Gun practice\n    \n  \n  \n    For Casuals attached\n    \n  \n  \n    For the training of Army Reservists\n    \n  \n  \n    For the training of Territorial Reservists\n    \n  \n  \n    Received in exchange for Aiming Tube Ammunition\n    \n  \n  \n    Total claimed\n    \n  \n  \n    In :- Practice ammunition actually received\n    \n  \n  \n    On hand, 1st November, 19 Received from Army Ordnance Department during year\n    \n  \n  \n    Other receipts in detail\n    \n  \n\nPart I. The Practices of Table A\n\nPart II. Repetition practice, indifferent shots, recruits The testing of Arms\n\nMachine Gun practice\n\nFor Casuals attached\n\nFor the training of Army Reservists\n\nFor the training of Territorial Reservists\n\nThe practices of Table B, including repetition and occasional shots:\n\nPart I.\n\nPart II.\n\nPart III.\n\nPart III. (regulars)\n\nCompetitions and Voluntary practice Exchanged for Miniature Ammunition\n\nExpended as above\n\nReturned to A. Q, D.\n\nTransferred to\n\n  \n    Total Expended\n    †Total Unexpended\n    Total\n  \n  \n    \n    \n    \n  \n\n(To agree with Total Claimed)\n\nRemaining on hand on 31st October, 19\n\n1\n\n282\n\n3\n\nRounds\n\n  Date on which each gun was last overhauled by (a) viewers, or (b) armourer\n  State whether either gun was at any period of the year unserviceable, and if so, for how long, giving brief explanation of cause\n  Number of subaltern officers, serjeants (not colour-serjeants), and lance-serjeants, who have qualified at a school of musketry as machine gun instructors\n  What special instruction has been given in:-\n    \n      (a) Range finding\n      (b) Machine gun approach\n      (c) Pack loading (local carriers)\n      (d) Digging machine gun emplacements\n      (e) Indirect and night laying\n      (f) Care of pack animals\n      (g) Semaphore signalling\n      (h) Ammunition supply\n      (i) Fire direction and tactics of machine gun\n    \n  \n\n  \n    No.\n    (n)\n    L(b)\n  \n  \n    No. 1\n    \n    \n  \n  \n    No. 2\n    (a) 1 (b)\n    \n  \n\n  \n    \n    Officers\n    Other ranks\n    Total\n  \n  \n    General Instruction during training\n    \n    \n    \n  \n\nReason and daily during Annual Camp,\n\nBrief outline of field practices performed with machine guns --\n\n\"Excluding individuals exercised by other units.\n\n†The reason for any surplus should be fully given in the Commanding Officer's Report.\n\nREPORT BY COMMANDING OFFICER. (Should be typewritten if possible.)\n\nThis should be a comprehensive report on all matters connected with the musketry training of his unit.\n\nIt has been found impossible to comply with the suggestion of the Commandant School of Musketry, Hythe regarding the Ammunition Account, owing to the late Arrival of the Defence Committee's report. It will however be carried out in future. There has been a further reduction in the percentage of failures among trained men. The percentage among recruits is larger: it is expected that the new miniature range, which will be ready for use during the next season will make a great improvement among the latter, the facilities for training of recruits being at present small.\n\n19 trained men fired the tests for Regulars with results as on first page. 13 qualified the previous year to fire these tests, but owing to lack of time available on the range it was found necessary for the remaining 24 to fire the Ordinary Tests of Table A.\n\nThe results of table \"O\" Pt.1, carried out by 108 Officers, N.C.Os. and men were satisfactory and also those of the Field Practices. A great all-round improvement in training should result from the provision of the 30yd range and additional practice at Indirect Fire. Field Practice was also carried out at Annual Camp and included instructional practice. It will be possible to complete Table C before Annual Camp and leave much more time available for tactical and other instruction in connection with a Tactical Scheme in November 1913.\n\n[P.T.O.]",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-418 - Public Offices & Others - 1914",
        "page_number": 54,
        "title": "CO129-418 - Public Offices & Others - 1914",
        "content_text": "0.2\n\nCopy.\n\n1083/4723 (K.0.1).\n\nSir,\n\n25/3/14.\n\n51\n\nWith reference to your letter No. 11462/14, dated the 19th of March 1914, I am commanded by the Army Council to place before you the following information for the consideration of Sir Edward Grey before it is finally decided to reverse the decision that the extra garrison in Hong Kong may be withdrawn at the end of April.\n\nThe Army Council have made all arrangements for carrying out the moves; the units in Hong Kong have been informed that they are about to return to India, and a battalion in India has been informed that their move to Hong Kong has been postponed for about two months as a consequence of the alteration in the programme of reliefs.\n\nThe additional units now in Hong Kong were sent there over two years ago at very short notice as a temporary measure. The reversal of the orders when there is no apparent change in the condition of affairs in China will create discontent among the men of these units, and will impose considerable hardship on the unit in India, which would then have to proceed to Hong Kong at a fortnight's notice.\n\nI am again to point out that the General Officer Commanding South China reported in 1911 (before the normal Hong Kong garrison had been augmented) that 650 infantry, including 350 British, could be spared temporarily from his command.\n\nForeign Office,\n3. W.\n\nThe Hon Secretary of State,\nS.C.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-418 - Public Offices & Others - 1914.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 451702,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-418 - Public Offices & Others - 1914",
        "page_number": 60,
        "title": "CO129-418 - Public Offices & Others - 1914",
        "content_text": "## Copy.\n\n`083/4723`  \n`(M.0.1)`.  \nBir,  \n`25/3/14`.  \n`57`  \n\nWith reference to your letter No. `11462/14`, dated the 19th of March 1914, I am commanded by the Army Council to place before you the following information for the consideration of Sir Edward Grey before it is finally decided to reverse the decision that the extra garrison in Hong Kong may be withdrawn at the end of April.\n\nThe Army Council have made all arrangements for carrying out the moves; the units in Hong Kong have been informed that they are about to return to India, and a battalion in India has been informed that their move to Hong Kong has been postponed for about two months as a consequence of the alteration in the programme of reliefs.\n\nThe additional units now in Hong Kong were sent there over two years ago at very short notice as a temporary measure. The reversal of the orders when there is no apparent change in the condition of affairs in China will create discontent among the men of these units, and will impose considerable hardship on the unit in India, which would then have to proceed to Hong Kong at a fortnight's notice.\n\nI am again to point out that the General Officer Commanding South China reported in 1911 (before the normal Hong Kong garrison had been augmented) that 650 infantry, including 350 British, could be spared temporarily from his command.\n\nThe Under Secretary of State,  \nForeign Office,  \nS.W.\n\nPage 60  \nPage 61",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-418 - Public Offices & Others - 1914.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 454119,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-422 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [5-6]",
        "page_number": 333,
        "title": "CO129-422 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [5-6]",
        "content_text": "## Territorial Force\n### Regimental Musketry Return for the year ended\n\n#### Strength of Officers, N.C.Os. and men at the end of the year, exclusive of men exempt from musketry by regulations\n\n|          | Total Strength | Recruits | Qualified | Unqualified | Not tested | Total |\n|----------|---------------|----------|-----------|-------------|------------|-------|\n| Officers | 351           |          |           |             |            | 351   |\n| N.C. Officers and Men | 144    | 144      |           |             |            | 144   |\n| Total    | 495           | 144      | 315       | 30          | 6          | 495   |\n\n#### Recruits\n\n|            | Tested on open range | Tested on miniature range | Qualified | Unqualified | Not tested | Total |\n|------------|----------------------|---------------------------|-----------|-------------|------------|-------|\n| Recruits   | 72                   | 72                        | 42        | 30          |           | 72    |\n\n#### Trained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men\n\n|                         | Qualified | Unqualified | Not tested | Total |\n|-------------------------|-----------|-------------|------------|-------|\n| Tested on open range    | 27        | 3           |            | 30    |\n| Tested on miniature range |           |             |            |       |\n\n#### Classification of those shown to have fired\n\n|                         | Qualified | Unqualified | Failed to attain prescribed standard, but classed as qualified under T.F. Regs. | Total |\n|-------------------------|-----------|------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|-------|\n|                         | 278       | 73             | 0                                                       | 351   |\n\n### Summary of Above Tables (Recruits and Trained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men)\n\n|                     | Total Strength | Now Exercised | Total Qualified | Failed to qualify | Not Exercised |\n|---------------------|----------------|---------------|-----------------|--------------------|---------------|\n| Recruits            | 144            | 72            | 42              | 30                 | 72            |\n| Trained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men | 351 | 243           | 278             | 73                 | 108           |\n| Total               | 495            | 315           | 320             | 103                | 180           |\n\n#### Remarks by Commanding Officer as to reason for Not Exercised\n\nRecruits: Several men on leave. Remainder joined too late in the season to do Musketry for 1914-15.\n\nTrained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men: A large number of men on leave. Remainder joined too late to do Course for 1914-15.\n\n*In accordance with Territorial Force Regulations*\n\n#### Note\n\n(a) the steps taken to ensure accurate marking, and (b) whether the Standard Tests were fired under independent supervision at the Butts.\n\n\"A\" Permanent Staff of Markers. \"B\" Officers of other Units attended to supervise the marking in the Butts during Standard Test.\n\n### Hong Kong Volunteer Corps\n### King's Park Range, Kowloon\n\n#### Army Form E.569\n\nPage 326\n\n### Details of Firing\n\n| Unit | Course fired | Tested on open range | Tested on miniature range | Qualified | Unqualified |\n|------|--------------|----------------------|---------------------------|-----------|-------------|\n| Hong Kong Volunteer Corps | King's Park Range | ... | ... | ... | ... |\n\n#### Other Details\n\n Forms `E.569`  \n`12)+W5177-004 10,000 12/11 HWY`  \n`J800 e¿stoVÁ`  \n`.bood Tog`  \n`Jai Mori ettûneqx Istor`  \n`Teduose taiƐ of уIKUISL`  \n`aqrob to viüzzenj`  \n`Koza talƐ mo`  \n`anges on which`  \n`Course fired`  \n\nHis Excellency The ...  \n`$8.889,04`  \n`IICI`  \n`OTS`  \n`SI`  \n`8SE`  \n`mission`  \n`srer`  \n`Tás`  \n`Teted on mlpture Tange`  \n`(1) to (8)`  \n`Not tonod`  \n`[to Aggree with`  \n`(n`  \n`<`  \n`Dar`  \n`4.SI, sa`  \n`SIQI`  \n`BIE`  \n`$114`  \n`—`  \n`30`  \n`144`  \n`72`  \n\n### Other Text\n\n`SVIVID.`  \n`II old T`  \n`GEI`  \n`03.808,88`  \n`Sou ever hina,`  \n`0.0`  \n`200`  \n`88.10G, DE`  \n`orer`  \n`ពន`  \n`I`  \n`Fxcellency The`  \n`CAI`  \n`VI.588, AC`  \n`Arer`  \n`aca`  \n`ar`  \n`Terted on open range`  \n`Kum[Y[ 'g_g[pur,`  \n`Falled to attain pro-`  \n`sorbed standard, but classed as qualidad andar T. V, Regal,`  \n`Total (7) to (0)`  \n`2 Failed in standard`  \n`Not tested`  \n`27.011,się od gattarone (yntTVOST-пou) exutibneque istoege yutbufonI .yaaqno✪ Jeb30 xo evresel no bebreqxe etapoms gntbuloat ton Jud`  \n`teit of Ieumb tal Tsay istoasaft odð rot at eztibaeqxe ed\"`  \n`no 100% rootkulov sdt to anojo odit te se at dignende enz .Zeďmeost`  \n`.doтM JuI8`  \n`Squadron or Compay`  \n`Part II., Table 1,`  \n`Territorial Force`  \n`Tart III. Table 3,`  \n`☎ Total (3) and (8)`  \n`52`  \n`doyal 51 1,00`  \n`Seo 11 300 30`  \n`Seo`  \n`FRES`  \n`W`  \n`1`  \n`ແຜນ`  \n`Not tested`  \n`Totul (4) and (5). (to Agono`  \n`with total strength,`  \n`trained meb`  \n`52 11 63 45`  \n`57`  \n`6`  \n`63`  \n`51`  \n`11 12 30`  \n`23 8`  \n`37 25`  \n`28`  \n`28 3 31 25`  \n`its Op.71. 1.00.1 29`  \n`71 31`  \n`102 64`  \n`29 3`  \n`32 25`  \n`1`  \n`J 1`  \n`Total (11) and (19)`  \n`(12)`  \n`Total (10) and (13) to agre`  \n`with total strength,`  \n`trained men`  \n`45`  \n`11 18`  \n`63`  \n`51 6 6 12`  \n`63`  \n`NAXNO`  \n`25`  \n`25`  \n`64`  \n`25`  \n`1950 30 74`  \n`3`  \n`12 15`  \n`7 12`  \n`3`  \n`1994`  \n`23`  \n`37`  \n`31`  \n`31 38 102`  \n`7! 32`  \n`Goluma (3)`  \n`2`  \n`(16)`  \n`(LG) (17) (IN)`  \n`278`  \n`278 73 351 843`  \n`243 35 73 108 351`",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-422 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [5-6].txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 454120,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-422 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [5-6]",
        "page_number": 334,
        "title": "CO129-422 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [5-6]",
        "content_text": "## Summary of Field Practices performed\n\n| Squadron or Company | No. of all ranks taking part | No. of practices performed | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |\n\n## AMMUNITION ACCOUNT (Ball only)\n\n(Not to be completed until the end of the musketry year.)\n\n| Quantity actually expended as per Army Book 218 | 327 | Maximum quantity which may be expended in accordance with Regulations | 3 |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Brief description of targets, distances and practices | Rounds | all ranks qualified* | rounds per man |\n|  |  | (to agree with No. shown in Summary, page 1, column 8) |  |\n\nFor Machine Gun practice\n\n| In | Part I | 11760 | The Practices of Table A |  |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n|  | Part II | 8674 | Repetition practice, indifferent shots, recruits | 1670 |\n|  |  | 250 | The testing of Arms |  |\n|  |  | 13600 | Machine Gun practice |  |\n| For | Casuals attached |  | For | Casuals attached |\n| For the training of Army Reservists |  |  | For the training of Territorial Reservists |  |\n| For the training of Army Reservists |  |  | For the training of Territorial Reservists |  |\n| Received in exchange for Aiming Tube Ammunition |  |  | The practices of Table B, including repetition and occasional shots |  |\n|  |  |  | Competitions and Voluntary practice |  |\n|  |  |  | Exchanged for Miniature Ammunition |  |\n| Total Expended |  |  | *Total Unexpended |  |\n| Part I | Part II | Part III | Part III (regulars) |  |\n|  |  | 12102 | 48056 |  |\n\n## MACHINE GUN TRAINING\n\n1. Were both guns used (a) for instruction, (b) for shooting\n2. Description (including mark) of carriages or mountings used: Tripod Mk.IV\n3. Period of time spent in Brigade Training: 4. Total number of N.C.Os. and men trained: 80\n5. Average service as machine gunners of 12 N.C.Os. and men selected to form detachment on mobilization\n6. If all men of detachment fired Part I., Table C\n7. Number of rounds fired in each part of Table C :- \n   - (a) By the selected 12 N.C.Os. and men: 170 each Part I Table \"C\"\n   - (b) By others\n\n|  | No. 1 | No. 2 | Total claimed |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Practice ammunition actually received |  |  |  |\n| On hand, 1st November, 19... Received from Army Ordnance Department during 1 year |  |  |  |\n| Other receipts in detail |  |  |  |\n\n8. Date on which each gun was last overhauled by (a) viewers, or (b) armourer\n9. State whether either gun was at any period of the year unserviceable, and if so, for how long, giving brief explanation of cause\n10. Number of subaltern officers, serjeants (not colour-serjeants), and lance-serjeants, who have qualified at a school of musketry as machine gun instructors\n11. What special instruction has been given in:- \n   - (a) Range finding\n   - (b) Machine gun approach (local carriers)\n   - (c) Pack loading\n   - (d) Digging machine gun emplacements\n   - (e) Indirect and night laying\n   - (f) Care of pack animals\n   - (g) Semaphore signalling\n   - (h) Ammunition supply\n\n| Officers | Other ranks | General Instruction | Fire direction and tactics of machine gun |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n\nBrief outline of field practices performed with machine guns :-\n\n|  |  | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Expended as above | \"Returned to A. O. D. | Total |\n|  |  | (To agree with Total Claimed) |\n|  |  | - Transferred to |\n|  |  | Remaining on hand on 31st October, 19... | Total |\n\nExcluding individuals exercised by other units. The reason for any surplus should be fully given in the Commanding Officer's Report.\n\n## REPORT BY COMMANDING OFFICER\n\n(Should be typewritten if possible.)\n\nThis should be a comprehensive report on all matters connected with the musketry training of his unit.\n\n61 recruits fired an instructional course on the miniature range. 2400 rounds of ammunition expended.\n\nThe increased percentage of failures amongst trained men is owing to the large number entitled by previous service to be classed as Trained men, having joined the Corps at the commencement of the war and whose standard of shooting had fallen through want of practice.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-422 - Governor Sir May - 1915 [5-6].txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 461544,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-433 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [5-6]",
        "page_number": 177,
        "title": "CO129-433 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [5-6]",
        "content_text": "## Territorial Force\n### Hong Kong Volunteer Corps\n#### King's Park Unit\n\n**Gimental Musketry Return for the year ended**\n\nStrength of Officers, N.C.Os. and men at the end of the year, exclusive of men exempt from musketry by regulations\n\n### RECRUITS\n\n| Qualified | Not Qualified | Not tested | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) |\n| 82 | 35 | 115 | 211 |\n\n| Tested on open range | Tested on miniature range | Failed to attain prescribed standard, but classed qualified under T.F. Regs. (2) | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| (5) |  | (6) | (7) |\n| 61 |  |  |  |\n\n| Total (4) to (7) | Total (to agree with Total Strength, Recruits) |\n| --- | --- |\n| (8) | 211 |\n| 115 | 211 |\n\n### TRAINED OFFICERS, N.C. OFFICERS AND MEN\n\n| Qualified | Unqualified | Failed in standard | Not tested | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) |\n| 35 | 56 | 5 | 60 | 96 |\n\n| Classification of those shown in Column (1) | Tested on open range | Failed to attain standard, but classed as qualified under T.F. Regs. | Failed to standard | Not tested | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | \n|  | (6) | (7) | (8) | (9) | (10) |\n| Part I., Table B, Territorial Force | 78 |  | 1 |  |  |\n| Part II., Table B, Regulars | 55 |  |  |  |  |\n| Total |  |  |  |  |  |\n\n| Total (6) and (11) | Total of (6) and (11) (to agree with Total Strength, trained men) |\n| --- | --- |\n| (12) | (13) |\n| 77 | 115 |\n\n### SUMMARY OF ABOVE TABLES (Recruits and Trained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men)\n\n| Strength | Nos. Exercised (Cols (1) and (6)) | No. qualified (for ammunition purposes) (Cols (8) Recruits, (1) Trained Officers, N.C.Os., and Men; and (10) Trained Officers, N.C.Os., and Men) | Failed to qualify | Not exercised |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) |\n| 615 | 507 | 423 | 84 | 108 |\n\n**Remarks by Commanding Officer as to reason for Not Exercised**\n\nRecruits: 11 Recently joined, 3 sick, 11 on active service, 10 on leave  \nTrained Officers, N.C. Officers and Men: 29 On active service, 44 On leave\n\n*In accordance with Territorial Force Regulations.*\n\n**Note**: \n(a) the steps taken to ensure accurate marking, and \n(b) whether the Standard Tests were fired under independent supervision at the Butts :-- \n\n\"(a)\". A permanent Staff of markers. \"(b)\". officers of other units attended to supervise the marking in the butts during Standard Tests.\n\n`Army Form E. 569`\n\nPage 175  \n31st March 1916",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-433 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [5-6].txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 461545,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-433 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [5-6]",
        "page_number": 178,
        "title": "CO129-433 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [5-6]",
        "content_text": "## Summary of Field Practices Performed\n| Squadron or Company | No. of all ranks taking part | No. of practices performed |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| B |  |  |\n| C |  |  |\n| D |  |  |\n| 4AOA #E |  |  |\n| F |  |  |\n| G |  |  |\n| H |  |  |\n| Regimental or Battalion | Mone |  |\n\n## Brief Description of Targets, Distances, and Practices\n### MACHINE GUN TRAINING\n\n1. Were both guns used (a) for instruction, 5 used; (b) for shooting.\n2. Description (including mark) of carriages or mountings used: Tripod Mk.IV\n3. Period of time spent in Brigade Training: `[at ...`\n\n## AMMUNITION ACCOUNT (Ball only)\n| Quantity actually expended as per Army Book 218 | Maximum quantity which may be expended in accordance with Regulations | Rounds |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n|  |  | all ranks qualified* |\n\n*To agree with Nos. shown in Summary, page 1, column 3)\n\n### For Machine Gun Practice\n|  | Rounds |\n| --- | --- |\n| For Casuals attached |  |\n| For the training of Army Reservists |  |\n| For the training of Territorial Reservists | 176 |\n| Received in exchange for Aiming Tube Ammunition | 3 |\n\n### Part I. \n| The Practices of Table A Part II. | Repetition practice, indifferent shots, recruits | The testing of Arms |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| 15210 | 11133 | 43 |\n\n### Total Expended\n| For Casuals attached | Machine Gun practice | For the training of Army Reservists | For the training of Territorial Reservists | The practices of Table B, including repetition and occasional shots |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n|  |  |  |  | Part I. |\n|  |  |  |  | Part II. |\n|  |  |  |  | Part III. |\n|  | 253 |  |  | Part III. (regulars) |\n|  |  |  |  | Competitions and Voluntary practice |\n|  |  |  |  | Exchanged for Miniature Ammunition |\n| **Total Expended** | **Total Unexpended** |  |  |  |\n| 26639 |  |  |  |  |\n\n4. Total number of N.C.Os. and men trained: 140\n5. Average service as machine gunners of 12 N.C.Os. and men selected to form detachment on mobilization: `none`\n6. If all men of detachment fired Part I., Table C: No\n7. Number of rounds fired in each part of Table C:— \n   - (a) By the selected 12 N.C.Os. and men: `} 253 only for purposes of demonstr`\n   - (b) By others: `} owing to the necessity for econom ammunition`\n\n### Ammunition Details\n| Total claimed | Practice ammunition actually received | \n| --- | --- |\n|  | On hand, 1st November, 19... |\n|  | Received from Army Ordnance Department during year |\n|  | Other receipts in detail |\n| Expended as above |  |\n| Returned to A. Ü. D. |  |\n| **Total** |  |\n| (To agree with Total Claimed) | Transferred to ... |\n|  | Remaining on hand on 31st October, 19... |\n\n8. Date on which each gun was last overhauled by (a) viewers, or (b) armourer: `No. 1`\n9. State whether either gun was at any period of the year unserviceable, and if so, for how long, giving brief explanation of cause: \n10. Number of subaltern officers, serjeants (not colour-serjeants), and lance-serjeants, who have qualified at a school of musketry as machine gun instructors: \n11. What special instruction has been given in:—\n    - (a) Range finding: \n    - (b) Machine gun approach: \n    - (c) Pack loading: Officers — Lectures & drills; Other ranks — `野 (local carriers) No. 2`\n    - (d) Digging machine gun emplacements: No sites available — Lectures only\n    - (e) Indirect and night laying: Lectures\n    - (f) Care of pack animals: `None`\n    - (g) Semaphore signalling: `General instruction — Lectures`\n    - (h) Ammunition supply: \n    - (2) Fire direction and tactics of machine gun: Lectures\n\n## Brief Outline of Field Practices Performed with Machine Guns\nnone\n\n## REPORT BY COMMANDING OFFICER\nThis should be a comprehensive report on all matters connected with the musketry training of his unit.\n\nRecruits fired an instructional course on the miniature range; 2432 rounds of miniature ammunition expended.\n\n[P.T.O",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-433 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [5-6].txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 466349,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-439 - Others - 1916",
        "page_number": 579,
        "title": "CO129-439 - Others - 1916",
        "content_text": "574\n\nHon. Col. Seo,\n\nWith reference to the death of Mr. T. H. Martin late Superintendent Registration and Parcel Branch I do not think it will be possible to obtain a successor from home during the period of the war and I am not at present aware of any suitable candidate already in the Government service who could take his place. I propose therefore to recommend subject to the approval of His Excellency the Governor, and to the consent of His Excellency the General Officer Commanding (who should I think be approached in the first instance) that Serjeant Cooper, 4th King's Shropshire Light Infantry who is a Postal Clerk by profession and has had 14 years service in the General Post Office at home as telegraphist and as a Postal Clerk in all the General Branches of the General Post Office be offered the temporary appointment so as to fill the gap until arrangements of a more permanent nature can be made. It must of course be understood that should Serjeant Cooper be called out for active operations he will be allowed to return to his unit immediately and that he is seconded for service under the local General Post Office subject to his proviso.\n\n2.\n\nI have personally ascertained that provided the consent of His Excellency the General Officer Commanding is obtained neither the Commanding Officer Major Harris-Edge nor the Officer Commanding Signalling Section of the 4th K. S. L. I Lieutenant Kinchen Smith have any objections to offer to my proposals. Serjeant Cooper himself whom I have now known for close on 12 months in connection with Signalling work and who is an energetic and painstaking man is willing",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-439 - Others - 1916.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 468696,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-443 - Governor Sir May - 1917 [7-9]",
        "page_number": 459,
        "title": "CO129-443 - Governor Sir May - 1917 [7-9]",
        "content_text": "FORM No. 4,\n\nFORM OF ENROLMENT.\n\nI, A.B., hereby engage myself to serve in the Hong-kong Defence Corps subject to the provisions of the Military Service Ordinance, 1917, and of the regulations which may be in force thereunder from time to time.\n\nDated at Hongkong the ...... day of ...., 19.....\n\n(2.) Recommendations for the appointment and promotion of all officers of units will be submitted by the Officer Commanding the Unit through the Administrative Commandant to the Governor, through the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n4. The establishment of the Corps shall be fixed from time to time as circumstances may require.\n\n5. The appointment and promotion of all members of the staff and officers are vested in the Governor.\n\nSignature.\n\nSECOND SCHEDULE.\n\n1. These regulations may be cited as the Hongkong Defence Corps Regulations, 1917.\n\n2. In these regulations-\n\n\"The Administrative Commandant\" means the officer for the time being entrusted with the general administration of the Corps.\n\n\"The Corps\" means the Hongkong Defence Corps.\n\n\"The General Officer Commanding the Troops\" includes the Senior Officer for the time being commanding the Troops.\n\nCONSTITUTION OF CORPS.\n\n3-(1.) The Corps shall consist of the following units:-\n\n(a) A company of artillery.\n\n(b) A company of engineers.\n\n(c) A battalion of infantry.\n\n(2) Subject to the provisions of the Army Act and of the Military Service Ordinance, 1917, and of these regulations, the Corps shall be under the orders of the General Officer Commanding the Troops, subject to the general control of the Governor.\n\n(3) The company of artillery shall be under the executive command of an officer of the Corps appointed by the Governor in that behalf. It shall be under the orders of the Officer Commanding the Royal Artillery of the Garrison for training and inspection.\n\n(4) The company of engineers shall be under the executive command of an officer of the Corps appointed by the Governor in that behalf. It shall be under the orders of the Chief Engineer of the Garrison for training and inspection.\n\n(5.) The battalion of infantry shall be under the executive command of an officer of His Majesty's Regular Forces appointed by the Governor in that behalf with the consent of the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(6.) The general administration of the Corps will be under the Officer Commanding the battalion of infantry, assisted by an administration staff appointed by the Governor.\n\n(7.) The Administrative Commandant may, with the approval of the Governor, establish one or more cadet companies in connection with the Corps, and every such company shall, as regards its establishment, administration, and government, be subject to such regulations as the Administrative Commandant may make with the approval of the Governor.\n\n(8.) Every officer upon his first appointment in the Corps to any rank, and every officer before promotion to any higher rank, shall pass the examination prescribed for that rank: provided that the General Officer Commanding may exempt any officer from compliance with this paragraph either wholly or in part.\n\n(9 is not present, so it goes to 4 and then subsequent subsections)\n\n(4.) The nature of the examination in each case shall be as may be prescribed by the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(5) The examining board shall be appointed by the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(6.) An officer whose turn for promotion arrives may be superseded if he has not passed the prescribed examination.\n\n(7) Supernumerary officers may be appointed in any unit but any such officers shall be absorbed into the establishment as soon as vacancies occur therein.\n\n(8) All appointments and promotions of members of the staff and of officers shall be notified in the Gazette and shall take effect from the date of such Gazette or from such other date as may be specified in the notification.\n\n6.(1.) The appointment and promotion of all non-commissioned officers of units are vested in the Officer Commanding the Unit.\n\n(2) Promotion will be by seniority, tempered by selection in each unit, and will be subject to the passing of such an examination as may be prescribed or approved by the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\nTRAINING.\n\n7. The training to be carried out will be as prescribed in the First Appendix hereto.\n\nEQUIPMENT.\n\n8. -(1) Officers will provide and maintain their own uniform and appointments according to the scale laid down in the Second Appendix hereto.\n\n(2.) Other ranks will be provided with uniform in accordance with the scale laid down in the Third Appendix hereto.\n\n(3) Under no circumstances may articles of uniform be worn with plain clothes.\n\n9.—(1,) An allowance towards the cost of his outfit of not more than twenty pounds or its equivalent in local currency will be paid to each officer on his first appointment as an officer in the Corps: provided that this paragraph shall not apply to those officers who have become officers of the Corps by virtue of section 10 of the Military Service Ordinance, 1917, unless the General Officer Commanding shall otherwise direct.\n\n(2.) Should an officer fail to become proficient within twelve months from appointment he shall at the discretion of the Officer Commanding his Unit be liable to refund all or part of the allowance made to him.\n\n448",
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    {
        "id": 468697,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-443 - Governor Sir May - 1917 [7-9]",
        "page_number": 460,
        "title": "CO129-443 - Governor Sir May - 1917 [7-9]",
        "content_text": "Stock book \n\nto be kept. \n\nOrder book to be kept. \n\nEntries Dr stock book. \n\nOrdering of stores. \n\nQuarter master. \n\nCorps Quartermaster Sergeant. \n\nRegimental Institute. \n\nBooks and returns. \n\nFourth \n\nAppendix. \n\nG -- \n\n(3) Should an officer leave the Corps within two years of appointment he shall at the discretion of the Officer Commanding his Unit be liable to refund all or part of the allowance made to him. \n\nSTORES. \n\n10. A stock book for stores issued on payment shall be kept showing the nature and value of each article and the member of the Corps to whom it is issued1. \n\n11. For every receipt and issue of stores there shall be a voucher. An order book for all stores required shall be kept and on receipt of the stores entry shall be made in the stock book. The receipt vouchers shall consist of the counterfoils of the order book, or of invoices from the Crown Agents, or from firms or departments which supply stores. Issue vouchers shall consist of receipts signed by the members of the Corps to whom the stores are issued on an issue book with pages numbered consecutively. The issue book shall be checked by the Administrative Commandant and each signature shall be authenticated by his initials. \n\n12. In every case the folio of the stock book shall be inserted on the voucher and the entries made on the day of issue. \n\n13. All stores ordered from England must be obtained in the usual manner through the Crown Agents for the Colonies. \n\nMISCELLANEOUS MATTERS. \n\n14. The Adjutant shall also perform the duties of Quartermaster. \n\n15. The Corps Sergeant-Major shall also perform the duties of Quartermaster Sergeant. \n\n16. The Administrative Commandant may, with the approval of the Governor, make regulations for the management of the Regimental Institute. \n\n17. (1) The following books shall be kept by the Adjutant: \n\n(a) Muster roll; \n\n(b) Record of attendance at parades, drills, and machine gun, rifle, and revolver practices; \n\n(c) Account of receipts and expenditure; \n\n(d) Stock book for stores; \n\n(e) Order book for stores; and \n\n(f) Ammunition account. \n\n(2) The Officers Commanding the artillery and engineer companies will keep for their own units a record of attendance at parades, drills, and rifle and revolver practices. \n\n(3) Periodical returns and reports shall be rendered by the Administrative Commandant as prescribed in the Fourth Appendix to these regulations. \n\nAPPENDICES. \n\nFIRST APPENDIX. \n\nTRAINING. \n\nGeneral \n\n[Regulation 7.] \n\n1. For training purposes the year will be divided into the two following periods: - \n\nCold weather: 15th October to 15th April, \n\nHot weather: 16th April to 14th October. \n\n2. The number of parades shall not exceed 50 per annum. Such parades shall be in addition to any parades and attendances ordered for musketry instruction or musketry practice. \n\n3. The Officers Commanding the respective Units shall fix the time and place for parades, drills, and rifle practices. \n\n4. The musketry course will be as laid down in the current Army Regulations. \n\n5. The artillery and engineer companies will be mobilised for one month during the cold weather. \n\n6. There will be a camp of exercise for the infantry battalion for one month during the cold weather. \n\n7. Subject to the provisions of paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Appendix, eight days attendance, not necessarily consecutive, during mobilisation or at the camp of exercise, as the case may be, shall be compulsory for every member of the Corps unless specially exempted by the General Officer Commanding the Troops. \n\n8. During the months in which the artillery company is on examination service the company may be excused from any number of drills at the discretion of the Officer Commanding the Unit. \n\n9. The Officer Commanding the engineer company may in his discretion excuse from any drill any men who have come off or who are going on electric light duty. \n\n10. Classes will be held at convenient times in each year for the instruction of members desirous of obtaining certificates of qualification for promotion as non-commissioned officers. \n\nMen over 45 but under 50 years of age. \n\n11. Men over 45 but under 50 years of age, if pronounced efficient by the Officer Commanding the Unit, shall be required to undergo only the following training: - \n\n(a) Musketry instruction and musketry practice. \n\n(b) 21 other parades per annum. \n\n(c) 4 days attendance during mobilisation or at the camp of exercise. \n\nMen over 50 years of age. \n\n12. Men over 50 years of age shall undergo such modified training as may be prescribed by the General Officer Commanding the Troops. \n\nPage 449",
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    {
        "id": 476754,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-448 - Governor Sir May - 1918 [4-6]",
        "page_number": 570,
        "title": "CO129-448 - Governor Sir May - 1918 [4-6]",
        "content_text": "# HONGKONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL\n\n(c) Every Civil Servant in whose case the Governor has decided that such Civil Servant should be enrolled,\n\n(d) Every person who has reported himself at the office of the Deputy Assistant Adjutant and Quarter Master General under the provisions of section 9 of this Ordinance.\n\n(e) Every person who has been convicted of unlawfully failing so to report himself and who has not successfully appealed against such convictions.\n\nProvided that it shall be lawful for the Governor to omit from such Enrolment Lists the name of any person who before the 20th day of May, 1918, applied to the Military Service Commission for permission to volunteer for active service outside the Colony.\n\nIn the original draft of the Bill, the date up to which the names of volunteers could be omitted from the Lists was June 1st, but as the telegram relating to conscription was published in May, the Government suggested that the date should be changed from June 1st to May 1st. Upon the motion of Mr. Pollock, the date was finally altered, as shown above, to May 20th, when the telegram relating to the introduction of conscription was actually published.\n\nClause 13 was amended to read as follows, the second and third sections being additions:\n\n(1) The Tribunal shall, for the purpose of any enquiry which it is authorised under the provisions of this Ordinance to make, have all the powers of the Supreme Court in respect of the following matters:\n\n(a) enforcing the attendance of witnesses and examining them on oath or otherwise;\n\n(b) compelling the production of documents; and\n\n(c) punishing persons guilty of contempt.\n\n(2) Every British subject ordered to attend before the Tribunal, and every Civil Servant whose case may be enquired into by the Governor under the provisions of this Ordinance, shall, on oath if so required, truthfully and fully answer all enquiries which may be addressed to such British subject or Civil Servant by the Tribunal or by the Governor, as the case may be, and shall produce any documents in his possession or under his control which the Tribunal or the Governor, as the case may be, may order such British subject or Civil Servant to produce.\n\n(3) If any such British subject or Civil Servant, as the case may be, fails to comply with any of the provisions of sub-clause (2) of this section, he shall upon summary conviction be liable to a fine of two hundred and fifty dollars and to imprisonment for any term not exceeding six months.\n\nTHE HON. MR. POLLOCK inquired whether permission would be granted for counsel, solicitors, or other agents to appear for parties before the Tribunal and the Governor-in-Council. He said: I think that power should be inserted in the Bill itself. If the Attorney-General has not drafted it, may I suggest that the matter be brought up in Committee on Monday next?\n\nH.E. THE GOVERNOR: We leave it to the Tribunal to fix its own procedure. There is no objection to any man, if he desires, being represented before the Governor-in-Council by counsel, solicitor, or other agent.\n\nThe Council was then adjourned until Monday at 2:30 p.m., when the Bill will be finally passed through the Committee stage and read a third time.\n\n## FINANCE COMMITTEE\n\nA meeting of the Finance Committee followed, at which the COLONIAL SECRETARY presided.\n\nThe Governor recommends the Council to vote a sum of six hundred dollars (`$600`) in aid of the vote Crown Solicitor's Office, other charges, extra legal expenses.\n\nTHE CHAIRMAN: Owing to the great pressure in the offices of the Attorney-General and Crown Solicitor, it was desirable that in certain recent criminal cases, counsel should be instructed to prosecute. This vote is to cover fees of counsel in two cases and the cost of an opinion in another case.\n\nThe vote was agreed to.\n\nPage 566\n\n# HONGKONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL\n\nPRESENT: 10TH JUNE, 1918\n\nHIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR, SIR FRANCIS HENRY MAY, K.C.M.G.\n\nHIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL F. VENTRIS (General Officer Commanding Troops in China).\n\nHON. MR. CLAUD SEVERN, C.M.G. (Colonial Secretary).\n\nHON. MR. J. H. KEMP (Attorney General).\n\nHON. MR. A. M. THOMSON (Colonial Treasurer).\n\nHON. MR. E. R. HALLIFAX (Secretary for Chinese Affairs).\n\nHON. MR. W. CHATHAM, C.M.G. (Director of Public Works).\n\nHON. MR. C. McI. MESSER (Captain Superintendent of Police).\n\nHON. MR. H. E. POLLOCK, K.C.\n\nHON. MR. E. SHELLIM.\n\nHON. MR. D. LANDALE.\n\nHON. MR. LAU CHU PAK.\n\nHON. MR. P. H. HOLYOAK.\n\nHON. MR. HO FOOK.\n\nMR. A. G. M. FLETCHER (Clerk of Councils).\n\nThere were also present in the Council Chamber eight or ten members of the public, including Mr. A. H. Harris, Mr. F. C. Jenkin, Mr. Eldon Potter, and Mr. Crew.\n\nTHE COLONIAL TREASURER seconded, and this was agreed to.\n\n## Questions by Mr. Pollock\n\nTHE HON. MR. POLLOCK asked the following questions:\n\n1. Will men, who are eligible for service under the General Military Service Ordinance, and who are either,\n\n(a) Members of the Belchers 6-inch section who have been through special training there and have passed in gunnery tests, or\n\n(b) Men of the Engineer Section who have passed in the required tests,\n\nbe given the opportunity of proceeding to England and of there joining up with some unit in which their training here will be of use to them and to the Empire?\n\n2. Will men who joined any of the various branches of the Volunteer Forces of this Colony either before the War or within 3 months after its commencement, and have not been home for over 5 years, be given the option of proceeding to England to join up?\n\n3. As regards Government Civil Servants,\n\n(1) Will not those Civil Servants who have left for home, under the express undertaking of the Government of this Colony to the effect that their Military pay shall be made up to their full Civil pay, be given the benefit of that undertaking and not be compelled to come in under the new scheme for separation allowances, insurance, etc., against their will and contrary to the said undertaking?\n\n(2) Will all Civil Servants who have gone home to fight, other than those falling under the above head (1), and if not, upon what classes of such Civil Servants, be allowed to enjoy the privileges under the new scheme?\n\nTHE COLONIAL SECRETARY, by command of H.E. the Governor, laid upon the table the report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee and moved that it be adopted.\n\n4. (2) Will the Government, in the case of those who have left, or may leave, the Colony on War Service, take steps for the purposes of insuring that their rights under the Widows and Orphans Pension Ordinances or regulations are not lost or prejudiced by any omission to keep up the periodical payments to the Fund?\n\nPage 570\nPage 571",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-448 - Governor Sir May - 1918 [4-6].txt",
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    {
        "id": 481249,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12]",
        "page_number": 486,
        "title": "CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12]",
        "content_text": "C.R.S.S. 13095.\n\nFrom: The Deputy Asst: Adjt: & Quartermaster General, Straits Settlements.\n\nTo: The Honourable, The Colonial Secretary, Straits Settlements.\n\nMilitary Headquarters, Fort Canning, Singapore.\n\n14th May, 1919.\n\nSir,\n\nI have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letters No. 1938/1919 dated 7.5.19 and 11.5.19. It is regretted that we have no authority by which the sum of $228.71 advanced to the Reverend C. E. Swinnerton by the Hongkong Government, can be refunded by us.\n\nThe Reverend C. E. Swinnerton informed the General Officer Commanding that all costs of his passage home would be borne by him, and he was advised to claim the refund of the passage money from the War Office if appointed to an Officer Cadet Unit.\n\nNo request was made to the Government of Hongkong to advance the sum in question.\n\nI have, &c.,\n\n(Sd.) A. Yates, Major, D.A.A. & Q.M.G., S.S.\n\nPage 2\n\n \n(empty page or continuation not shown in original scan)\n\nPage 1\n\nCOPY.\n\n...\n\n \n467",
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    },
    {
        "id": 481250,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12]",
        "page_number": 487,
        "title": "CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12]",
        "content_text": "To accompany love. 1.\n\nC.R.S.S. 12403.\n\nFrom:-\n\nThe Deputy Assistant Adjutant & Quartermaster General,\n\nStraits Settlements.\n\nTo:-\n\nThe Honourable, The Colonial Secretary, Straits Settlements.\n\nSir,\n\nMilitary Headquarters,\n\nFort Camming,\n\nSingapore.\n\n31st May, 1918.\n\nI am directed to inform you that the Revd. C.E. Swinnerton of Jesselton has been accepted by the General Officer Commanding as a candidate for a combatant Officer Cadet Unit, and arrangements are being made to pay his passage from War Office Funds up to the limit of the amount sanctioned.\n\nHe wishes to be accompanied by his wife, and to go via Canada.\n\nIn these circumstances, the General Officer Commanding hopes that no difficulty will arise in the issue of the necessary passports, on application.\n\nMr. Swinnerton has been passed in Borneo, fit Class \"A\" for service.\n\nI have, &c.\n\n(sd.)\n\nD. A. YATES,\n\nMajor,\n\nD.A.A. & Q.M.G., S.S.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 481254,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12]",
        "page_number": 491,
        "title": "CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12]",
        "content_text": "154\n\nCOPY.\n\n(Confidential)\n\nY 4 J\n\n(A) 2808IS.A.3.0\n\n(eqoost end anibne 250 7œ1990 Lenorað ant\n\nA'\"\n\npenge wit,anised tro\n\nCII plot del\n\nAd\n\n*. 30081.6.8. . ETOČțel um að meng\n\n2.\n\n: 01\n\n‚Tİ4\n\nved 1 rooms Infanqal of* -i -sivo8 \"at mattenmiwa\n\nname Itres\n\n↑ bewonned arrastradă risk dard mo, notel sé munŃ\n\neid mo mir einen od uda to lục end dreamevɔð grožynol\n\n• Ir won si dnevensvou rozhoh era hora Inn,emori ca es q\n\n„boptera «xi-\n\nJ\n\nhedinom\n\n& conng a veter blwow I .:\n\n:i-8 BrescueƐ prid o Mrded no dro-Enerod vodeH\n\nVAN I\n\nJogi .8 .0 (.58)\n\n(To accompany Endosure 3)\n\n472\n\nExtract from General Officer Commanding's letter No.13095 dated 29th June, 1918, to the Secretary, War Office, London, S.W.\n\nMr. Swinnerton filled in the necessary forms but owing to the distance from Singapore several days journey he was unable to come in to see me. If he had done so he would have been provided with second class passage to the United Kingdom, the standard value of which is £46 (the price having been recently raised from £36), under authority which has been granted me to send Home candidates with previous military service, who are suitable for entry in an Officers Cadet Unit, (War Office Cable No. 26008.S.D.3(b) dated the 17th March, 1917).\n\nI have ascertained that Mr. Swinnerton is fitted in every way for entry in an Officer Cadet Unit, and I have given him a recommendation to this effect. I have instructed Mr. Swinnerton to apply to the War Office for assistance toward the payment of his passage as soon as he has been accepted for Cadet Unit, quoting the number of this letter. I may mention that Mr. Swinnerton made no condition when notifying me that he was proceeding home. It was only when I found that he proposed to bear the whole cost of his journey, together with that of his wife and child, from very scanty means, by putting the whole of his savings to this use, that I decided that this case was one for sympathetic treatment.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-456 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1919 [10-12].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 482136,
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        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-458 - Public Offices & Others - 1919",
        "page_number": 184,
        "title": "CO129-458 - Public Offices & Others - 1919",
        "content_text": "Copies\n\nC\n\n172\n\n16452\n\nTHE\n\nOfficer i/c Infantry Records,\n\nNo.6 District,\n\nLichfield.\n\nKrd 15 MAR.9\n\nRef. your Lich/19297/15712/Leic dated 6-3-19, and attached correspondence.\n\nI beg to report that No.58435 Pte. Barlow R.C. has had a good character while in this unit.\n\nHe has been serving for some time on Brigade Headquarters as a signaller. I know him personally and consider him to be a reliable man, quite capable of resuming his former duties.\n\nLouth. 8-3-19.\n\n(Sd.) E. N. Cross,\n\nLieut. Colonel,\n\nCommdg T.F. Res. The Leicestershire Regt.\n\nLich/19297/Leic/15712.\n\nThe Secretary,\n\nWar Office,\n\nLondon. S.W.\n\n \n\nWith reference to your letter 111112/13.(A.G.3)(048) dated the 4th March, 1919, please see attached report on No. 58435 Pte. R. C. Barlow from Officer Commanding 4th Leicester Regiment.\n\nLichfield\n\n10.3.19.\n\n(Sd.)\n\nLieut.\n\nfor Officer i/c Infantry Records. No.6 Dist.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-458 - Public Offices & Others - 1919.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 482164,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-458 - Public Offices & Others - 1919",
        "page_number": 212,
        "title": "CO129-458 - Public Offices & Others - 1919",
        "content_text": "13\n\n200\n\nArmy Orders.—April, 1919.\n\nhis rank. On instructions being given by the War Office, a certificate to this effect will be rendered in respect of each officer by the commanding officer under whom he served or, if impracticable, by a senior officer of his unit fully cognisant of his service. In the case of officers commanding units, and on the establishment of County and Group Headquarters, the certificate will be rendered by the County Commandant; in the case of the latter officer the certificate may be dispensed with.\n\n4. The honorary rank accorded will be the rank which the officer concerned held on relinquishing his commission.\n\n5. An officer who relinquished his volunteer commission on joining His Majesty's Forces for full-time service will be eligible for honorary rank and the right to wear uniform under this Army Order, provided he has completed the necessary period of 6 months' qualifying service, but he will not be entitled to make use of the privilege until after the relinquishment of any commission which he may subsequently have held or after final discharge from such forces.\n\n6. An officer resigning or relinquishing his commission on account of misconduct or by reason of an adverse report will not be eligible for the grant of honorary rank and the right to wear uniform.\n\n7. In the case of an officer who relinquished his commission prior to the date of this Army Order and who is eligible for the distinction, notification of the grant of honorary rank and the right to wear uniform will appear in the London Gazette in due course, and in the case of an officer who subsequently relinquishes his commission, the requisite notification will appear in the same gazette as the announcement of such relinquishment.\n\n8. Until further orders uniform may only be worn by an officer granted the privilege under this Army Order when he is employed in a military capacity or on ceremonial occasions of a military nature, in which case the letters V.R. will be worn on the collar of the service dress jacket below the collar badges.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-458 - Public Offices & Others - 1919.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 488380,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-469 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1921 [9-12]",
        "page_number": 121,
        "title": "CO129-469 - Governor Sir Stubbs - 1921 [9-12]",
        "content_text": "# HONGKONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL\n\n## Debate on Land Occupied by Military Authorities\n\nIn criticising land occupied by the Military Authorities after the war, I am sure that my honourable and gallant friend will not misinterpret the criticism nor misunderstand the admiration which we all have for the forces in the Colony and the value which they are to us. It really is a purely economic problem - from that point of view alone we approach it - and I am sure he will, also without sentiment upon either side. I do not hesitate to say that the occupation by the Military Authorities, or by the Naval Authorities for that matter, of so large a portion of the very centre and heart of the Colony, dividing it as it is to-day, is an absolute bar to the economic progress and development of the Colony. With the vast quantities of land which could provide suitable occupation both on the Island and the Mainland, the difficulty should be faced and, I think, in all deference, it can easily be overcome.\n\nIt was prophesied at the beginning of this war that the exclusion of the Germans from this Colony would directly lead to empty offices and empty houses. To-day, sir, it is well known to all of us that it is extremely difficult to find an office or any house whatever - indeed a house cannot be obtained no matter what price you are prepared to pay - and that rents have soared higher and higher as the years have gone by, and so long as the present pressure remains are likely to do so. Therefore, in the interests of the commercial progress of the Colony, upon which both the Government and the people as well as the Military and Naval Authorities depend, it is a problem which should be faced with a little more outward show of hurry than has been apparent in the past.\n\nNo one who is familiar with the history of the Colony, or who has watched its development even in the war years, can fail to be impressed with the urgent and crying need of greater office, warehouse, and housing accommodation for the Colony, especially in the central district.\n\n## Response from H.E. THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING\n\nYour Excellency, I am very glad to have this opportunity of expressing the military position, the Military position and attitude, on this question, and I would hasten to assure you, the mover and seconder of this resolution, that we are trying to move with the times and that we have no desire to hinder the progress of the Colony so long as the military efficiency in no way suffers.\n\nWe are quite prepared to meet you in this matter, and we have already formulated a broad outline of a scheme to do so. It seems desirable that the Council should have a clear idea of the principles upon which we are prepared to act. In the first place, as is evident from this resolution, the arrangement is at the instance of and for the benefit of the Colony. Accordingly, no cost whatever should fall upon Army funds. It will obviously be desirable and possible to carry out arrangements for the transfer in sections, as convenient to both parties. At the same time, the scheme will have, first of all, to be considered as a whole.\n\nOur military establishments in Victoria and Kowloon are healthy; they provide the soldier with the amenities of life and facilities for recreation. Those which will be required will have to be equally healthy, of the most modern type, provided with all the amenities considered necessary for the soldier of to-day, as well as all requisite facilities for military training and recreation. They will have to be connected with mechanical transport routes, with points we shall specify. No establishment will be vacated until the new establishment is complete, ready, and fit for occupation by the unit concerned, until that new establishment has been passed as fit by the War Department.\n\nI have said enough to show you that the transfer referred to in this resolution would be costly and will take time. You cannot build barracks, with all their accessories, in a day. So far as we are concerned, we are quite prepared to go ahead with a workable scheme. The rate of progress will depend upon the rapidity with which the Colony makes up its mind to meet our needs. We will talk business if you are prepared to find the money. It seems to me, therefore, that this resolution could carry more weight - a little more meat in it - if it contained a clause requesting the Government to make such financial provision as may be necessary to carry out the transfer.\n\n## Response from HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR\n\nI must say that I think it will be unnecessary to add the words proposed by my honourable and gallant colleague because everybody knows the Government has for years been pressing the Military to clear out of the land occupied by themselves and their mules, and has always been ready to put up whatever money is required with notice previously given. The matter will not require a very great deal of money because it can only be done by degrees, and as the Military move one step, we can sell the land and probably recoup ourselves for the expenditure incurred.\n\n## Debate on Encouraging New Building Construction\n\n**Motion by HON. MR. POLLOCK**\n\n\"That, with a view to encourage the construction of new houses in this Colony, it is desirable for the Government to pass an Ordinance exempting, for 3 years after completion, from liability to pay rates, any new buildings, the plans for which may be sent in for the first time after the commencement of such Ordinance.\"\n\nIt has been put forward against the Government from time to time as a matter of criticism that the Government is very anxious to get as much money as it can, and that, on the other hand, it is not prepared to give anything by way of facilitating the building of new houses in this Colony, and it is with the view of removing that reproach from the Government that this resolution is brought forward.\n\nI think, however, there can be any question that new developments in this Colony are very urgently required. The recent preliminary census has shown us that probably the normal increase of the Colony's population is about 20,000 a year, and we also know that any disturbances which take place from time to time in the neighbouring provinces are liable to bring an influx from the mainland of China.\n\nWith Your Excellency's permission, I should just like to say a few words, and that is that it seems to me that there is one phrase which His Excellency, the General Officer Commanding, used which regards the principle of exempting from liability to any rates any new buildings. I am hopeful in the direction of progress, and that is that he spoke of carrying out the arrangement to transfer in sections.\n\nWell, Sir, might I venture to suggest to the honourable and gallant member that the first section that we shall deal with is the section which is dealt with by this motion, that is to say the Military establishments along Queen's Road. As regards any question of reasonable payment, I think I can assure Your Excellency on behalf of the Unofficial members that whatever is reasonable the Unofficial members will be prepared to vote for this much-needed improvement in the Colony.\n\nThe principle of exempting new buildings from rates has been adopted in some of the States of America, and, as I believe, at Home, where the principle has been adopted of raising loans for building houses in order that money may be advanced at a moderate rate to those desiring to build new houses.\n\nI think, sir, that this principle of exemption from rates would be, in view of the present state of our finances, perhaps the easiest way of granting facilities for the erection of new buildings. I think the term of three years after completion, which I have suggested, is quite a moderate term.\n\nThe motion was then put to the meeting and declared by His Excellency the Governor to be carried. His Excellency the General Officer Commanding abstained from voting.",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-475 - Governor Sir Stubbs & Acting Governor Claud Severn - 1922 [5-7]",
        "page_number": 223,
        "title": "CO129-475 - Governor Sir Stubbs & Acting Governor Claud Severn - 1922 [5-7]",
        "content_text": "220\n\n\"In view of the present need of room for further office accommodation in this Colony, will the Government approach the Military Authorities with the view to the military parade ground being handed over to the Government at an early date?\"\n\n\"The answer was: 'The Government is in correspondence with the Military authorities on the subject.' Well, Sir, from that day to this we have received no information or intimation in this Council as to the effect of that correspondence, or whether it has had any effect at all. That being the state of affairs at the beginning of last month, on the 6th August—over 18 months having elapsed since I made my motion of the 29th January, 1920—I gave notice of this motion which is now before the Council. I have slightly amended the motion since, but not in any very material respect.\n\nMy present motion is: That, in view of the shortage of European office and business accommodation in this Colony and in view of the shortage of sites for Chinese business premises in this Colony, it is imperative that the Military Establishments should be transferred from their present site in the centre of the City to some other site or sites at the earliest possible date.\" I think, Sir, that I have said enough to show that this matter is a very pressing and urgent one, and I believe that my honourable friend, the member for the Chamber of Commerce, who will second this resolution presently, will fully confirm me when I say that there is an extremely strong wish on the part of the inhabitants of this Colony—the civil inhabitants of this Colony—that this removal which we are asking for should take place at the earliest possible date in order to give room for commercial expansion. I am in hopes that before the Council closes this afternoon, the honourable and gallant member on my left (H.E. the General) will be able to give us some information with regard to what has been and is about to take place with regard to this important question. I think that everybody in this Colony who is interested in the business welfare of the Colony will be anxious to hear what is being done. It is felt, I think generally, that it is very necessary in this matter that we should hurry up with all speed. The demand for office accommodation in this Colony has overtaken the supply, and it is very necessary indeed, at a very early date, to have these sites for commercial expansion put in possession of the Government of this Colony. I do not think, Sir, I need say more now. I have a right of reply under the rules, and if I want to supplement my present remarks I will do so then. I will now call upon my honourable friend to second this resolution.\n\nTHE HONGKONG WEEKLY PRESS &\n\n186 [September 3rd, 1912.\n\na workable scheme. I do not hesitate to say that the occupation by the Military Authorities, or by the Naval for that matter, of so large a portion of the very centre and heart of the Colony, dividing it as it is to-day, is an absolute economic bar to the progress and development of the Colony. With the vast quantities of land which could provide suitable occupation both on the Island and the Mainland, the difficulty should be faced and, I think, in all deference, it can easily be overcome. It was prophesied at the beginning of this year that the exclusion of the Germans from this Colony would directly lead to empty offices and empty houses. To-day, Sir, it is well known to all of us that it is extremely difficult to find an office or any house whatever—a house cannot be obtained no matter what price you are prepared to pay—and that rents have soared higher and higher as the years have gone by, and so long as the present pressure remains is likely to do so. Therefore, in the interests of the commercial progress of the Colony, upon which both the Government and the people as well as the Military and Naval Authorities live—indeed that is why we are here—it is a problem which should be faced with a little more outward show of hurry than has been apparent in the past. It is with a feeling that this is realised by the Government that I refrain from speaking at greater length upon the subject, because the need is so crying that it speaks for itself. No one who is familiar with the history of the Colony, or who has watched its development even in the war years, can fail to be impressed with the urgent and crying need of greater office, warehouse and housing accommodation for the Colony, especially in the central district.\n\nThe rate of progress will depend upon the rapidity with which the Colony makes up its mind to meet our needs. We will talk business if you are prepared to find the money. It seems to me, therefore, that this resolution could carry more weight—a little more meat in it—if it contained a clause requesting the Government to make such financial provision as may be necessary to carry out the transfer.\n\nHIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR: I must say that I think it will be unnecessary to add the words proposed by my honourable and gallant colleagues because everybody knows the Government has for years been pressing the Military to clear out of the land occupied by themselves and their mules, and have always been ready to put up whatever money is required. The matter will not require a very great deal of money because it can only be done by degrees, and as the Military move one step we can sell the land and probably recoup ourselves for the expenditure incurred. A fairly considerable amount of money will have to be put up in the first instance, but there will be no difficulty about that. The financial question will require a certain amount of thinking out, as well as the circumstances under which some of those lands came to be vested in the Military. I am not sure I altogether entirely agree with the views of the General Officer Commanding. I should hesitate at the moment to commit myself to the statement that the Colony is prepared to do everything required by the Military Authorities—even Military Authorities are not always entirely reasonable—but I am sure I can say we will do everything that is reasonable and necessary. I think it is unnecessary to say more than that I am entirely in sympathy with the resolution and I see no reason why you should not pass it.\n\nThe Hon. Mr. POLLOCK: With your Excellency's permission, I should just like to say a few words, and that is it seems to me that there is one phrase which His Excellency, the General Officer Commanding, used which is hopeful in the direction of progress, and that is that he spoke of carrying out the arrangement to transfer in sections. Well, Sir, might I venture to suggest to the honourable and gallant member that the first section that we shall deal with is the section which is dealt with by this motion, that is to say the Military establishments along Queen's Road. As regards any question of reasonable payment, I think I can assure your Excellency on behalf of the Unofficial members that whatever is reasonable the Unofficial members will be prepared to vote for this much-needed improvement in the Colony.\n\nThe GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING: Your Excellency, I am very glad to have this opportunity of expressing the military position, the Military position and attitude, on this question, and I would hasten to assure you the mover and seconder of this resolution that we are trying to move with the times and that we have no desire to hinder the progress of this Colony so long as the military efficiency in no way suffers. We are quite prepared to meet you in this matter, and we have already formulated a broad outline of a scheme to do so. It is desirable that the Council should have a clear idea of the principles upon which we are prepared to act. In the first place, as is evident from this resolution, the arrangement is at the expense of and for the benefit of the Colony. Accordingly, no cost whatever should fall upon Army funds. It may obviously be desirable and possible to carry out arrangements for the transfer in sections, as convenient to both parties. At the same time the scheme will have, first of all, to be considered as a whole. Our military establishments in Victoria and Kowloon are healthy; they provide the soldier with the amenities of life and facilities for recreation. The new establishments which will be required will have to be equally healthy, of the most modern type, provided with all the amenities considered necessary for the soldier of to-day as well as all requisite facilities for military training and recreation. They will have to be connected with mechanical transport routes, with points we shall specify. No establishment will be vacated until the new establishment is complete, ready and fit for occupation by the unit concerned, until that new establishment has been passed as fit by the War Department.\n\nThe Hon. Mr. HOLYOAK: Sir, I have the honour of seconding the resolution proposed by the honourable member representing the Justices of the Peace. Had it been necessary, Sir, to convince the Government of the public feeling on this matter, it would have been amply demonstrated by calling a public meeting, when the feeling would have been shown in a very marked manner; but we are fully convinced that the Government is fully in agreement with the object of this resolution and therefore needs no convincing in the matter. One naturally feels diffident in criticising land occupied by the Military Authorities so recently after the last war, but I am sure that my honourable and gallant friend will not misinterpret what I have said. The admiration which we all have for the forces in the Colony and the value which they are to us is a purely economic problem—from that point of view alone we approach it and I am sure he will, without sentiment upon either side.\n\nThe motion was then put to the meeting and declared by His Excellency the Governor to be carried unanimously.\n\nTO ENCOURAGE NEW BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.\n\n\"That, with a view to encourage the construction of new houses in this Colony, it is desirable for the Government to pass an Ordinance exempting, for 3 years after completion, from liability to pay rates, any new buildings, the plans for which may be sent in for the first time after the commencement of such Ordinance.” The Hon. member said: It has been put forward against the Government from time to time as a matter of criticism, that the Government is very anxious to get as much money as it can, and that, on the other hand, it is not prepared to give",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926",
        "page_number": 389,
        "title": "CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926",
        "content_text": "C.O.S. 44.\n\n4\n\n# APPENDIX I.\n\n## Chiefs of Staff Sub-Committee.\n\n### HONG KONG-Defence of.\n\n#### Interim Report by the Joint Staffs Sub-Committee.\n\n1. The Joint Staffs Sub-Committee on the Defence of Hong Kong has taken note of the conclusion reached by the Chiefs of Staff Sub-Committee at their 32nd Meeting, held on the 3rd June, 1926, when it was agreed\n\nTo approve in principle the proposal of the Chief of the Air Staff to take such preliminary steps as may be necessary to acquire ground for an aerodrome at Hong Kong.\n\nThe Sub-Committee has further taken note of Colonial Office letter No. C.7237/26, dated the 15th May, 1926, forwarding despatches by the Governor of Hong Kong, and suggesting that the points raised should be examined, in the first place, by the Joint Staffs Sub-Committee.\n\n2. The proposals put forward were that\n\n(a.) The Kai Tak reclamation area should be acquired as an aerodrome site.\n\n(b.) A small local unit for police work should be formed.\n\n3. As regards (a), a decision as to whether it is possible and desirable to station regular air forces at Hong Kong in peace time depends on a number of factors which have not yet been fully investigated. In certain eventualities, however, such as might occur during trouble in Canton, the despatch of air forces to Hong Kong, perhaps only as a temporary measure, might be desirable.\n\nTo provide for such a contingency, it is essential that an aerodrome, with facilities for seaplanes as well as for landplanes, should be available. The Kai Tak reclamation area on the Kowloon peninsula is not only the best site, but practically the only suitable site, and if it were built over, the potential use of aircraft for defence in the future would be seriously restricted. In addition, the present time appears to be favourable for purchase, and delay in acquisition now might result in heavier expenditure at a later date.\n\nThere appears to be no possible reason from the Treaty aspect against the acquisition of this aerodrome site. A levelled area of ground cannot be interpreted as an increase in coast defences. It is only when buildings are erected and aircraft actually located on the aerodrome that the question of legality appears to arise.\n\nThe Sub-Committee is therefore of the opinion that the Kai Tak site should be acquired at an early date, and recommends that the Governor of Hong Kong should be given authority to proceed with the necessary purchase.\n\n4. With regard to (b), i.e., the formation of a local police air unit at Hong Kong, it is considered that the proposals put forward will require considerable investigation, and that the question could more appropriately be dealt with by the Local Forces Sub-Committee of the Oversea Defence Committee.\n\nThere does not appear to be any particular urgency for the formation of this unit, and the Sub-Committee therefore recommends that the Governor be informed that the matter is being further investigated.\n\n## Conclusion.\n\n5. The Sub-Committee recommends:\n\n(a.) That the Kai Tak reclamation area should be acquired without delay.\n\n(b) That the formation of a local police air unit, being less urgent, should be referred for further investigation.\n\n(Signed) W. G. S. DOBBIE, Colonel, G.S. (Chairman), Directorate of Military Operations and Intelligence, War Office.\n\n(Signed) WILFRED A. EGERTON, Captain, R.N., Plans Division, Admiralty.\n\n(Signed) B. E. SMYTHIES, Wing-Commander, R.A.F, Directorate of Operations and Intelligence, Air Ministry.\n\n5\n\n# APPENDIX II.\n\n## Governor, Hong Kong, to Secretary of State for the Colonies.\n\nHong Kong, February 18, 1926.\n\nI HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your secret despatch of the 10th December, 1925, covering a copy of a letter with enclosures in original from the Air Ministry. The enclosures deal with a suggestion for the provision of an aerodrome site in the Colony, and the despatch calls upon me to furnish a report upon the practicability of the proposals of the Air Ministry and the cost involved. You enquire further whether the arguments adduced in Sir R. E. Stubbs' secret despatch of the 13th October, 1925, on the subject of expenditure for the increase of the Garrison of Hong Kong apply equally to the question of Air Defence.\n\n2. I welcome the opportunity of expressing my views, as since my arrival in the Colony in November 1925, the question of providing aircraft for Hong Kong has been continuously pressed on my attention, and I have had it under the most careful consideration from every aspect. The requirements of the Defence of the Colony, the possibilities of Police aviation, and the probable development of civil commercial aviation have all been passed under review and fully discussed; and the matter of aerodrome accommodation has inevitably arisen in considering any aspect of the question.\n\n3. The first experience of the Colony in aviation for Defence purposes has been provided during the last six months by the presence of H.M.S. \"Hermes\" with a flight of seaplanes; and the experience has been important as foreshadowing the value of Police aviation in a Colony where natural obstacles to rapid communication are unusually serious. For purposes of defence the Air Patrol of the Frontier maintained by the seaplanes of H.M.S. \"Hermes\" has been of great value as a deterrent to the operations of strike pickets which I have described in my despatch No. 72 of the 18th February, and has demonstrated the necessity of providing an Air Force Arm for any complete Scheme of defence that may be devised.\n\n4. In this connection, I request your attention to the article extracted from the \"Hong Kong Daily Press\" of the 9th February, 1926, which forms the first enclosure to this despatch. The development of aviation in Canton in an organised manner has been under consideration for a long time past, and the rapid march of events in the Province (especially in military matters) augurs the early establishment of such an arm. Aeroplanes have already been used in the recent fighting in Kuang-tung, and, though they are probable, as yet, of little material value, their development may be expected. In any case, the fact that they could, even now, fly over the Colony of Hong Kong with complete impunity must be a source of anxiety. H.M.S. \"Hermes\" utilised seaplanes only, but the Naval Authorities found it necessary to provide some accommodation ashore for her land machines, and this was found on the West portion of the Kai Tak reclamation, near Kowloon City, on which temporary sheds (so marked on the plan which forms enclosure 2* in this despatch) were erected. The Admiralty ordered on the 17th November that these sheds should be abandoned by the Naval Authorities, and I directed that they should be taken over and maintained at the expense of the Colonial Government. The area on which the sheds stand and the open ground in front of them constitute an important part of the complete scheme, which I put forward in paragraphs 12, 14, 15 and 16 below.\n\n5.\n\n6. In formulating the scheme, I have not overlooked the policy outlined in \"Notes on Proposals for Air Base at Hong Kong,\" of which a copy was received from the General Officer Commanding the Troops, China Command, under date the 4th December, 1925. It runs as follows:-\n\n\"It is not considered that any air menace to Hong Kong exists at the present time from China, since the Chinese only possess a few aircraft which could be kept in check by our machines flown off Carriers as soon as such vessels are stationed on the China Station. Should, however, developments of Chinese Air Forces occur, or the present situation in China be materially altered, the Government might deem it necessary, in order to safeguard our interests in China, to establish an Air Base in Hong Kong, in spite of the difficulties and great expense involved.\n\n[14922]\n\n*Not reproduced.\n\nB 3\n\n381",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "page_number": 397,
        "title": "CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926",
        "content_text": "5\n\n389\n\nC.O.S. 44.\n\nAPPENDIX I.\n\nChiefs of Staff Sub-Committee.\n\nHONG KONG - Defence of\n\nInterim Report by the Joint Staffs Sub-Committee.\n\n1. The Joint Staffs Sub-Committee on the Defence of Hong Kong has taken note of the conclusion reached by the Chiefs of Staff Sub-Committee at their 32nd Meeting, held on the 3rd June, 1926, when it was agreed-\n\nTo approve in principle the proposal of the Chief of the Air Staff to take such preliminary steps as may be necessary to acquire ground for an aerodrome at Hong Kong.\n\nThe Sub-Committee has further taken note of Colonial Office letter No. C.7237/26, dated the 15th May, 1926, forwarding despatches by the Governor of Hong Kong, and suggesting that the points raised should be examined, in the first place, by the Joint Staffs Sub-Committee.\n\n2. The proposals put forward were that—\n\n(a) The Kai Tak reclamation area should be acquired as an aerodrome site.\n\n(b) A small local unit for police work should be formed.\n\n3. As regards (a), a decision as to whether it is possible and desirable to station regular air forces at Hong Kong in peace time depends on a number of factors which have not yet been fully investigated. In certain eventualities, however, such as might occur during trouble in Canton, the despatch of air forces to Hong Kong, perhaps only as a temporary measure, might be desirable.\n\nTo provide for such a contingency, it is essential that an aerodrome, with facilities for seaplanes as well as for landplanes, should be available. The Kai Tak reclamation area on the Kowloon peninsula is not only the best site, but practically the only suitable site, and if it were built over, the potential use of aircraft for defence in the future would be seriously restricted. In addition, the present time appears to be favourable for purchase, and delay in acquisition now might result in heavier expenditure at a later date.\n\nThere appears to be no possible reason from the Treaty aspect against the acquisition of this aerodrome site. A levelled area of ground cannot be interpreted as an increase in coast defences. It is only when buildings are erected and aircraft actually located on the aerodrome that the question of legality appears to arise.\n\nThe Sub-Committee is therefore of the opinion that the Kai Tak site should be acquired at an early date, and recommends that the Governor of Hong Kong should be given authority to proceed with the necessary purchase.\n\n4. With regard to (b), the formation of a local police air unit at Hong Kong, it is considered that the proposals put forward will require considerable investigation, and that the question could more appropriately be dealt with by the Local Forces Sub-Committee of the Oversea Defence Committee.\n\nThere does not appear to be any particular urgency for the formation of this unit, and the Sub-Committee therefore recommends that the Governor be informed that the matter is being further investigated.\n\nConclusion.\n\n5. The Sub-Committee recommends :-\n\n(a) That the Kai Tak reclamation area should be acquired without delay.\n\n(b) That the formation of a local police air unit, being less urgent, should be referred for further investigation.\n\n(Signed) W. G. S. DOBBIE, Colonel, G.S. (Chairman), Directorate of Military Operations and Intelligence, War Office.\n\n(Signed) WILFRED A. EGERTON, Captain, R.N., Plans Division, Admiralty.\n\n(Signed) B. E. SMYTHIES, Wing-Commander, R.A.F., Directorate of Operations and Intelligence, Air Ministry.\n\nAPPENDIX II.\n\nGovernor, Hong Kong, to Secretary of State for the Colonies,\n\nHong Kong, February 18, 1926.\n\nSir,\n\nI HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your secret despatch of the 10th December, 1925, covering a copy of a letter with enclosures in original from the Air Ministry. The enclosures deal with a suggestion for the provision of an aerodrome site in the Colony, and the despatch calls upon me to furnish a report upon the practicability of the proposals of the Air Ministry and the cost involved. You enquire further whether the arguments adduced in Sir R. E. Stubbs' secret despatch of the 13th October, 1925, on the subject of expenditure for the increase of the Garrison of Hong Kong apply equally to the question of Air Defence.\n\n2. I welcome the opportunity of expressing my views, as since my arrival in the Colony in November 1925, the question of providing aircraft for Hong Kong has been continuously pressed on my attention, and I have had it under the most careful consideration from every aspect. The requirements of the Defence of the Colony, the possibilities of Police aviation, and the probable development of civil commercial aviation have all been passed under review and fully discussed; and the matter of aerodrome accommodation has inevitably arisen in considering any aspect of the question.\n\n3. The first experience of the Colony in aviation for Defence purposes has been provided during the last six months by the presence of H.M.S. \"Hermes\" with a flight of seaplanes; and the experience has been important as foreshadowing the value of Police aviation in a Colony where natural obstacles to rapid communication are unusually serious. For purposes of defence the Air Patrol of the Frontier maintained by the seaplanes of H.M.S. \"Hermes\" has been of great value as a deterrent to the operations of strike pickets which I have described in my despatch No. 72 of the 18th February, and has demonstrated the necessity of providing an Air Force Arm for any complete Scheme of defence that may be devised.\n\n53\n\n4. In this connection, I request your attention to the article extracted from the \"Hong Kong Daily Press\" of the 9th February, 1926, which forms the first enclosure to this despatch. The development of aviation in Canton in an organised manner has been under consideration for a long time past, and the rapid march of events in the Province (especially in military matters) augurs the early establishment of such an arm. Aeroplanes have already been used in the recent fighting in Kuang-tung, and, though they are probably, as yet, of little material value, their development may be expected. In any case, the fact that they could, even now, fly over the Colony of Hong Kong with complete impunity must be a source of anxiety.\n\n5. H.M.S.\" Hermes\" utilised seaplanes only, but the Naval Authorities found it necessary to provide some accommodation ashore for her land machines, and this was found on the West portion of the Kai Tak reclamation, near Kowloon City, on which temporary sheds (so marked on the plan which forms enclosure 2 in this despatch) were erected. The Admiralty ordered on the 17th November that these sheds should be abandoned by the Naval Authorities, and I directed that they should be taken over and maintained at the expense of the Colonial Government. The area on which the sheds stand and the open ground in front of them constitute an important part of the complete scheme, which I put forward in paragraphs 12, 14, 15 and 16 below.\n\n6. In formulating the scheme, I have not overlooked the policy outlined in \"Notes on Proposals for Air Base at Hong Kong,\" of which a copy was received from the General Officer Commanding the Troops, China Command, under date the 4th December, 1925. It runs as follows:-\n\n\"It is not considered that any air menace to Hong Kong exists at the present time from China, since the Chinese only possess a few aircraft which could be kept in check by our machines flown off Carriers as soon as such vessels are stationed on the China Station. Should, however, developments of Chinese Air Forces occur, or the present situation in China be materially altered, the Government might deem it necessary, in order to safeguard our interests in China, to establish an Air Base in Hong Kong, in spite of the difficulties and great expense involved.\n\n[14022]\n\nB 3",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926.txt",
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    {
        "id": 505682,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926",
        "page_number": 404,
        "title": "CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926",
        "content_text": "APPENDIX II.\n\nGovernor, Hong Kong, to Secretary of State for the Colonies.\n\nHong Kong, February 18, 1926.\n\nSir,\n\nI HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your secret despatch* of the 10th December, 1925, covering a copy of a letter with enclosures in original from the Air Ministry. The enclosures deal with a suggestion for the provision of an aerodrome site in the Colony, and the despatch calls upon me to furnish a report upon the practicability of the proposals of the Air Ministry and the cost involved. You enquire further whether the arguments adduced in Sir R. E. Stubbs' secret despatch of the 13th October, 1925, on the subject of expenditure for the increase of the Garrison of Hong Kong apply equally to the question of Air Defence.\n\n2. I welcome the opportunity of expressing my views, as since my arrival in the Colony in November 1925, the question of providing aircraft for Hong Kong has been continuously pressed on my attention, and has been under the most careful consideration from every aspect. The requirements of the Defence of the Colony, the possibilities of Police aviation, and the probable development of civil commercial aviation have all been passed under review and fully discussed; and the matter of aerodrome accommodation has inevitably arisen in considering any aspect of the question.\n\n3. The first experience of the Colony in aviation for Defence purposes has been provided during the last six months by the presence of H.M.S. \"Hermes\" with a flight of seaplanes; and the experience has been important as foreshadowing the value of Police aviation in a Colony where natural obstacles to rapid communication are unusually serious. For purposes of defence, the Air Patrol of the Frontier maintained by the seaplanes of H.M.S. \"Hermes\" has been of great value as a deterrent to the operations of strike pickets which I have described in my despatch No. 72 of the 18th February, and has demonstrated the necessity of providing an Air Force Arm for any complete Scheme of defence that may be devised.\n\n4. In this connection, I request your attention to the article extracted from the \"Hong Kong Daily Press\" of the 9th February, 1926, which forms the first enclosure to this despatch. The development of aviation in Canton in an organised manner has been under consideration for a long time past, and the rapid march of events in the Province (especially in military matters) augurs the early establishment of such an arm. Aeroplanes have already been used in the recent fighting in Kuang-tung, and, though they are probably, as yet, of little material value, their development may be expected. In any case, the fact that they could, even now, fly over the Colony of Hong Kong with complete impunity must be a source of anxiety.\n\n5. H.M.S. \"Hermes\" utilised seaplanes only, but the Naval Authorities found it necessary to provide some accommodation ashore for her land machines, and this was found on the West portion of the Kai Tak reclamation, near Kowloon City, on which temporary sheds (so marked on the plan which forms enclosure 2* in this despatch) were erected. The Admiralty ordered on the 17th November that these sheds should be abandoned by the Naval Authorities, and I directed that they should be taken over and maintained at the expense of the Colonial Government. The area on which the sheds stand and the open ground in front of them constitute an important part of the complete scheme, which I put forward in paragraphs 12, 14, 15, and 16 below.\n\n6. In formulating the scheme, I have not overlooked the policy outlined in \"Notes on Proposals for Air Base at Hong Kong,\" of which a copy was received from the General Officer Commanding the Troops, China Command, under date the 4th December, 1925. It runs as follows:-\n\n\"It is not considered that any air menace to Hong Kong exists at the present time from China, since the Chinese only possess a few aircraft which could be kept in check by our machines flown off Carriers as soon as such vessels are stationed on the China Station. Should, however, developments of Chinese Air Forces occur, or the present situation in China be materially altered, the Government might deem it necessary, in order to safeguard our interests in China, to establish an Air Base in Hong Kong, in spite of the difficulties and great expense involved.\n\n\"There is, however, no intention of doing so at the moment, and consequently international questions regarding the Treaty (Washington) do not arise.\n\n\"The establishment of a base for seaplanes at Hong Kong presents fewer difficulties than forming a landplane base. Since, however, the only justification for forming a base at all would be to resist Air aggression from the Mainland, whatever aircraft were provided must possess the capacity to oppose with success not merely the few inefficient aircraft at Canton, but high-class modern machines flown by skilled foreign pilots.\n\n\"It is not the policy of the Air Staff to utilise seaplanes for action of this nature, since, though they have undoubtedly a certain capacity for offence and defence, they are inferior in this respect to landplanes of a corresponding class.\n\n\"The establishment of a Volunteer Air Unit, which might perhaps combine defence, commercial, and police functions, is a question which falls under a different category to that of forming a Service Air Base. It is intended shortly to review the strength and provision of local Defence Forces for all British Colonies, with a view to making recommendations to Colonial Governments. Until this enquiry is completed, the Air Staff are not in a position to state positive views as to the formation of a local Air Unit at Hong Kong.\n\n\"The development of a commercial Air Base cannot be classified with any measures undertaken for the defence of Hong Kong. Whatever the potential value of Commercial Aircraft may be for War purposes, the development of a Commercial Service should proceed on purely Commercial lines.\n\n\"In short, the Air Ministry will not, under present conditions, attempt to establish an Air Base at Hong Kong. If, however, Commercial conditions were to call for a Commercial Air Service at Hong Kong, the Air Ministry would encourage such developments. The desirability of establishing an Air Base at Hong Kong, if and when such a course becomes practicable, should, however, be borne in mind, and any projected building construction which might have a restrictive influence on flying facilities on or in the vicinity of suitable sites for Aerodromes and Seaplane Bases should be carefully watched.\"\n\n7. The consideration of Police and of civil aviation demand foresight in the provision of space for a shore aerodrome, and, in my view, the time is not far distant when the development of military aviation in China will demand a modification of \"these proposals for an Air Base.\" It is necessary, in any event, having regard to the dearth of suitable aerodrome sites in this Colony, to be prepared for the possibilities to which the \"Notes\" refer.\n\n8. Recent experience with aircraft in the Colony has shown that they prove of great value in assisting the work of the Police, and I propose that a small squadron should be permanently stationed here for that purpose. The report of Captain C. P. Talbot, R.N., which forms enclosure 3 in this despatch, sets out the functions of the squadron, and suggests in full detail the type and number of machines, and the requirements for the Base and the Personnel. It provides also an estimate of the expenditure, capital and recurring. Any expenditure for the acquisition of land necessary for an aerodrome will be additional to the estimated capital expenditure of £16,500.\n\n9. There still remains for consideration the question of the possible developments of Civil Aviation in general. Tentative efforts have already been made on certain routes from Hong Kong, and it cannot be doubted that geographical considerations alone will make the Colony an essential stage in any scheme that may be developed either for communication with the interior of China or for connecting China with Singapore, and so with lines to Europe and to Australia.\n\nPage 396",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-497 - Public Offices - 1926.txt",
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    {
        "id": 508356,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-501-6 Sweepstakes and Lotteries 3-1-1927 - 3-1-1927",
        "page_number": 28,
        "title": "CO129-501-6 Sweepstakes and Lotteries 3-1-1927 - 3-1-1927",
        "content_text": "# SECTION XIII.\n## ABSENTEES WITHOUT LEAVE, DESERTERS, ETC.\n\n### Army.\n\n1. A soldier who informs the Police that he has lost his ticket or is otherwise without the means of rejoining his unit should be referred to an Army Recruiting office. If there is no such office in the neighbourhood and if the man's unit is not less than 10 miles distant, he should be given a railway warrant (see page 45). If the Police have reason to doubt his bona fides, inquiry should be made by telegram of his Commanding Officer before a railway warrant is given. If the unit is less than 10 miles distant, he should be told to proceed on foot.\n\n2. An absentee without leave, or a deserter, who surrenders to the Police need not be brought before a Court of Summary Jurisdiction, provided that he appears from his own confession to the officer in charge of the police station to which he is taken to be in fact an absentee without leave or a deserter: see section 154 (9) of the Army Act.\n\nIn such a case, a telegram should be immediately dispatched to the Officer Commanding the man's unit stating the soldier's number, rank, name and unit, and the place from which he absented himself or deserted, and asking for an escort to be sent. Army form `0.1617` should at the same time be filled in by the Police, and later handed to the military escort sent to receive the defaulter. On receipt of the telegram the military authorities will arrange for the soldier to be taken into military custody at the earliest opportunity.\n\n3. (a) An absentee without leave, or a deserter, who is arrested by the Police should be taken before a Court of Summary Jurisdiction in accordance with section 154 (1) of the Army Act.\n\n(b) In such a case, if it is possible for a military escort to reach the Court while it is sitting, a telegram should be sent at once to the Officer Commanding the man's unit, giving full particulars of the case, stating whether the prisoner disputes his identity or not and inquiring whether an escort will be sent to the Court to receive the defaulter. The Police should acquaint the Court with the facts and with the contents of the telegram received in reply. If the escort arrives before the Court rises, and the defaulter is duly identified, he can then be handed over to the escort without further delay, and his committal to prison or other civil custody avoided. Army form `0.1618` should be given by the Court to the military escort or, if the escort has not arrived, to the Police, to hand over to the escort on arrival.\n\n(c) If, on the other hand, it is not possible for a military escort to reach the Court before it rises, the telegram mentioned in (b), above, should not be sent, but the facts should be reported to the Court in order that the man may be remanded or committed to prison or police custody to await a military escort. A telegram should be sent afterwards to the Officer Commanding the man's unit, informing him of the Court's order, Army form `0.1618` being given to the Police to hand over to the escort on arrival as in (b) above.\n\n(d) If the Court recommends a reward, the Court should make the recommendation in the space provided in Part II of the form: the entire form being disposed of as in (b) above. In no case should Part II of Army form `0.1618` be detached.\n\n4. It is often possible to deal effectively with an absentee, without arresting him and bringing him before a Court of Summary Jurisdiction, especially if the man has merely overstayed his leave. When the absentee appears to be willing to rejoin his unit and it does not appear to the officer in charge of the police station that an escort is necessary, he may be conducted to the nearest railway station and, if he has not a railway pass or the money to buy a ticket, he may be given a railway warrant (see page 45). An absentee proving recalcitrant should be arrested and dealt with by the Court under Section 154 of the Army Act.\n\n5. Whenever a man denies that he is an absentee without leave or a deserter, or asks to be taken before a Magistrate, he should always be so taken.\n\n6. The stations of all units are shown in the monthly Army List. In the absence of a copy of the List information will be obtained from the local military headquarters. Should, however, difficulty be found in ascertaining the station, inquiry may be made of the War Office direct. In the event of the unit being overseas (i.e., outside Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man), all communications should be sent to the Officer Commanding the regimental depot instead of to the Officer Commanding the unit.\n\n7. Copies of Army forms `0.1617` and `0.1618` can be obtained from the War Office. These forms should not be used in cases dealt with under paragraphs 1 and 4.\n\n8. No expenses incurred by the Police in connection with the arrest of absentees without leave or deserters are chargeable to military funds. Telegrams sent by the Police to Officers Commanding units on this subject will be accepted at any Telegraph Office without prepayment, provided that each telegram is certified as being on War Office service.\n\n### Army Reserve and Territorial Army.\n\n9. Army Reservists called out for annual training or on permanent service who, without reasonable excuse, fail to join the Colours on the appointed date, are liable to be dealt with under Section 154 of the Army Act or to be convicted by a Court of Summary Jurisdiction under Section 15 (2) of the Reserve Forces Act, 1882. If, however, they desert or absent themselves without leave after they have joined the Colours, they are not liable to summary conviction. The Police should not take proceedings in these cases except on express instructions from the military authorities.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-501-6 Sweepstakes and Lotteries 3-1-1927 - 3-1-1927.txt",
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    {
        "id": 508357,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-501-6 Sweepstakes and Lotteries 3-1-1927 - 3-1-1927",
        "page_number": 29,
        "title": "CO129-501-6 Sweepstakes and Lotteries 3-1-1927 - 3-1-1927",
        "content_text": "## 10. Men belonging to the Territorial Army who, without reasonable excuse, fail to appear at the time and place appointed for assembly on embodiment, are liable to be dealt with under section 154 of the Army Act (see section 20, Territorial and Reserve Forces Act, 1907); men of the Territorial Army who, without reasonable excuse, absent themselves from preliminary or annual training or from drills, are not liable to arrest by the Police and must be dealt with under section 21 of the Act of 1907. In the latter cases proceedings should be by summons and conducted only under the direction of the County Association.\n\n## 11. Territorials who, having assembled for annual training, subsequently absent themselves, are liable to be dealt with under section 158 (1) of the Army Act or section 21 of the Territorial and Reserve Forces Act, 1907. They should not be arrested by the Police, but they may be taken into custody by the military authorities.\n\n## Royal Air Force and Air Force Reserve\n\n## 12. Paragraphs 1-9 apply generally to absentees without leave or deserters from the Air Force or Air Force Reserve, subject to the following modifications. \"Air Force Act,\" \"Air Force List,\" \"air force\" and \"Air Ministry\" should be substituted for \"Army Act,\" \"Army List,\" \"military\" and \"War Office,\" respectively; and in line 2 of paragraph 9 the word \"rejoin\" should be substituted for \"join the colours.\" If an airman's unit is overseas or cannot be identified, communications should be addressed to the Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Depot, Uxbridge, Middlesex. In cases coming under paragraph 4, a telegram should be sent to the Officer Commanding the unit stating that the airman is travelling by a certain train. A telegram on this subject sent by the Police to the above-mentioned Officer will be accepted at any Telegraph Office without prepayment provided that it is certified as being on Air Ministry service.\n\n## 13. Copies of Air Force forms 1617 and 1618 can be obtained from the Air Ministry.\n\n## Royal Navy and Royal Marines\n\n## 14. If naval ratings or Royal Marines, who surrender to the Police, (a) satisfy the Police of their identity, (b) have been absent less than 2 years and (c) appear physically fit for further service, they should not be brought before Magistrates but should be given railway warrants to their barracks (see page 45). If they do not come within these conditions, the instructions of the Admiralty should be obtained.\n\n## 15. A man arrested as an absentee or deserter by the Police on suspicion, under section 9 of the Naval Deserters Act, 1847, should generally be brought before a Court of Summary Jurisdiction; but if he has merely overstayed his leave and appears to be willing to rejoin his ship or depot, and it does not appear to the officer in charge of the police station that an escort is necessary, he should be conducted to the nearest railway station for the purpose, without being taken before a magistrate. In this case a telegram should be sent to the Commanding Officer of the ship or depot, stating that the absentee is returning by a certain train, and a railway warrant should be provided if necessary (see page 45). Any absentee proving recalcitrant should be taken before a magistrate.\n\n## 16. Men arrested on warrants issued under section 50 of the Naval Discipline Act, 1866, should be at once disposed of as directed therein.\n\n## 17. Particulars of a man's arrest, or surrender to the Police, should always be reported by telegram: (a) in the case of naval ratings, to the Commanding Officer of his ship or to the Commodore of the naval barracks at the port to which the man belongs (telegraphic address: \"COMBRAX,\" Portsmouth, Devonport, or Chatham); or if there is any doubt regarding the proper barracks, to the Admiralty (Naval Law Branch) so that Admiralty instructions may be obtained; (b) in the case of Royal Marines, to the Admiralty (Naval Law Branch) and also to the Adjutant-General, Royal Marines (telegraphic address: \"ROYAL MARINES, SOWEST, LONDON\").\n\n## 18. All telegrams should be in the following form :-\n| (Name) | (number) | absentee or deserter | surrendered or arrested on naval warrant | Or | arrested on suspicion | (rating) or | H.M.S. or | Depot | Identity established or | identity certain | R.N. or | R.M. | since | escort can be furnished | or | escort cannot be furnished | or | travelling warrant to | issued |\n\n## 19. In the event of the Police conveying the defaulter to his ship or depot, a railway warrant should be used and the directions on page 45 carried out.\n\n## 20. No expenses incurred by the Police in connection with naval absentees without leave or deserters are recoverable by them from naval funds. A telegram on this subject sent by the Police to any of the above-mentioned Naval Authorities will be accepted at any Telegraph Office without prepayment, if certified as being on Admiralty service.\n\n## Foreign Merchant Ships\n\n## 20. The following is a list of foreign countries with which reciprocal arrangements for the arrest and surrender of deserters from merchant...",
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    },
    {
        "id": 509234,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-502-6 China- general situation 7-1-1927 - 3-3-1927",
        "page_number": 159,
        "title": "CO129-502-6 China- general situation 7-1-1927 - 3-3-1927",
        "content_text": "## \n(2) That the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs should telegraph instructions, based on the conclusions of the Report, to the Acting Consul-General, Canton, which should be repeated to the Governor of Hong Kong.\n\nThat the Secretary of State for War should authorise the Chief of the Imperial General Staff to send a supplementary telegram to the General Officer Commanding at Hong Kong, based on the reference in the last part of para. 7 of the Report to the fact that we cannot expect to hold out indefinitely against serious attack by the Cantonese troops:\n\n(a) That the Secretary of State for the Colonies should notify the Governor of Hong Kong that the instructions to Canton would be repeated and to communicate their contents to the naval and military authorities.\n\n## USE OF TEAR GAS\n\n(b) \n5. Referring to the recommendation of the Chiefs of Staff Committee in favour of authority being given for the use of gas in China, subject to definite instructions as to the circumstances in which it is to be employed (`C.I.D. Paper No.761-B`, para.10), the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs said he was advised that, from a legal point of view, the use of Tear Gas as a weapon of war was contrary to Treaty engagements. Technically it might be argued that its use against an armed mob did not constitute an infringement of Treaties and that the Government of Canton was not a signatory of the Treaties. Were we to use Tear Gas we should not escape criticism, and the fact of our doing so would be used as propaganda against us.\n\nThe Secretary of State for War stated that in any event we should be compelled to send out a gas unit, as the Cantonese forces might use it against us.\n\nThe",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-502-6 China- general situation 7-1-1927 - 3-3-1927.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 514086,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-508-8 Plans and reports on proposed aerodrome at Kai Tak 11-1-1928 - 21-12-1928",
        "page_number": 33,
        "title": "CO129-508-8 Plans and reports on proposed aerodrome at Kai Tak 11-1-1928 - 21-12-1928",
        "content_text": "(2-32) As far as possible, this area as a building site.\n\nUnder the arrangement proposed, however, the aircraft sheds and other technical accommodation for the Royal Air Force units and for the Civil establishment are intermingled and more or less interchangeable between the two organisations. It is necessary, if possible, that the Royal Air Force establishment should be entirely separate from the Civil Establishment, that it should be a self-contained unit under single control, without divided responsibility.\n\nIn both the Royal Air Force and Civil organisations, provision must be made for the accommodation of landplanes and seaplanes, and it is found, on careful investigation, and having regard to the fact that the area which it is considered should be reserved for future Royal Air Force buildings approximates to that allocated to the combined establishment on plan \"B\", that it is not practicable to arrange a layout on the Eastern side of the aerodrome, comprising two entirely self-contained establishments, with approaches to the landing ground and to Kowloon Bay, without unduly encroaching on the landing area on this side.\n\nIt has, however, been found practicable, while retaining the Eastern site for the Royal Air Force, to site the buildings which it is considered should be sufficient for Civil Aviation requirements for many years to come along the Western boundary, where the present temporary Royal Air Force buildings are situated. The accompanying plan No. HK1 shows the layout proposed. It is considered that, from an administrative point of view, the arrangement proposed should prove satisfactory, and the Commanding Officer, Royal",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-508-8 Plans and reports on proposed aerodrome at Kai Tak 11-1-1928 - 21-12-1928.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 522538,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 49,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "(26/6/29 (2177) Wt. 17187/6844 200 pads 11/29 S.E.R. Ltd.\n\nGp. 602.\n\nMESSAGE.\n\n(This form is also to be used for Postagrams.)\n\nOUT\n\nTo Commander-in-Chief, China,\n\nNo.\n\nrepeated Commodore, Hong Kong.\n\nDATE 27.3.30.\n\nNon-vales\n\nSENT\n\nCypher or Confidential Code Non-Confidential Code or Plain Language\n\nDelete line not applicable\n\nand your 1417 of it want\n\nReference my 1736 of 17th March. Following\n\ncompanies have communicated their acceptance of\n\nGovernment decision to Admiralty. John Swire & Sons,\n\nMatheson & Company, Indo-China Steam Navigation Co., British India Steam Navigation Co., Canadian Pacific Railway Company. The companies urge that force should\n\nbe constituted as definite anti-piracy unit with the Commanding Officer and sufficient headquarters staff of officers and N.C.Os. seconded from time to time from\n\nthe Navy or Army. The companies also represent that while they are paying for military guards they should have some say as to number of men carried.\n\nCompanies\n\nand\n\nhave been informed that these views have been communicated to Hong Kong where all details of the scheme will be settled, and as regards second point that H.M. Government cannot limit discretion of Commander-in-Chief, China, General Officer Commanding. Request early report as to time limit to provision of military guards. Officer administering Government, Hong Kong.\n\nInform\n\nMilitary Branch.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 522558,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 69,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "70\n\n[No. O.D.C. 585-M.]\n\n+\n\nANNEXURE TO ENCLOSURE.\n\nPiracy in China Waters.\n\nMemorandum by the Oversea Sub-Committee of the Committee of Imperial Defence.\n\nTHE Colonial Office have referred to the Oversea Defence Committee for consideration a telegram (Appendix), dated the 21st February, 1930, from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong, dealing with the question of anti-piracy guards for shipping in China waters.\n\n2. The whole subject of piracy in China waters was, at the instance of the Chief of the Naval Staff, discussed by the Chiefs of Staff Sub-Committee over a year ago, and a report (C.I.D. Paper No. 330-C) was submitted to the Committee of Imperial Defence.\n\n3. The conclusions of the Chiefs of Staff were as follows:-\n\n(a) We are convinced that no satisfactory action for the protection of vessels against piracy is possible without the whole-hearted co-operation of the shipowners. This is at present lacking. We therefore suggest that pressure should be brought to bear through the medium of the interested parties, or by legislation, to make the shipowners responsible for the protection of their ships and passengers so long as it is within their power to do so, and to cause them to implement as far as is practicable those recommendations of the Sunning Commission which concern them. The following steps we consider to be of particular importance :-\n\n(i) Improvement in the conditions of service in shipping companies so as to attract the best type of personnel. An increase of British personnel in the complement of vessels appears to be desirable.\n\n(ii) Fitting of protection to the bridge and other vital positions in the ship.\n\n(iii) The employment of guards, which might be organized at other ports besides Hong Kong, and which should be rendered as efficient as possible.\n\nWe fully realise that these proposals are likely to be fought by the companies on the grounds of expense, and also on the excuse that the fitting of protection to the bridge, &c., may contravene the Board of Trade regulations regarding access to boats.\n\n(b) We suggest that the compradore, who is the keystone of the whole structure of shipping trade in China, should, if possible, be given a real interest in preventing pirates from coming on board. At the same time, it is realised that steps likely to incur the hostility of the compradore might seriously affect the companies' interests.\n\nIn any case, a more rigid examination of passengers on embarkation and during the voyage would appear worthy of consideration.\n\n(c) We agree that patrols by His Majesty's ships for the purpose of intercepting pirates should continue so far as the strength of the squadron in the Far East allows.\n\n(d) While recognizing that, for the present, the provision of regular naval and military guards on board ship must continue, we strongly recommend that the shipping companies should be informed that the provision of these guards will cease in one year's time, and that they will then have to assume full responsibility for the internal protection of their ships.\n\n(e) We suggest that the local authorities should be asked to consider how co-operation in intelligence between the various ports of call can be improved.\n\n(f) The root of piracy is firmly embedded in Chinese soil, and piracy can only be effectively suppressed by Chinese action on shore. We therefore suggest that strong representations should be made to the Nanking Government, if possible jointly with other foreign Powers, with a view to action being taken to this end. We suggest that the question of exacting reparation for injury to British lives or property should be considered.\n\n4. The above report was considered by the Committee of Imperial Defence at their 240th Meeting on the 8th March, 1929, and it was agreed-\n\n\"(a) To recommend to the Cabinet that approval in principle should be given to the recommendations submitted by the Chiefs of Staff in paragraph 38 of their Report (C.I.D. Paper No. 330-C); and\n\n(b) To recommend that the Admiralty should be authorised to instruct the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Anti-Piracy Committee at Hong Kong should proceed on the assumption that the policy recommended by the Chiefs of Staff will be adopted in principle, and should submit in due course detailed proposals for giving effect to this policy.\n\n(c) To take note that the Foreign Office were prepared in principle to make representations to the Chinese Government at Nanking, either on the general question of piracy or in connection with each specific case, though they were not optimistic as to the result.\"\n\n5. On Wednesday, the 13th March, 1929, the Cabinet approved the recommendations of the Committee of Imperial Defence as set forth above (Cabinet 11(29), Conclusion 8), and the necessary instructions were communicated forthwith to the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, the Anti-Piracy Committee, Hong Kong, and His Majesty's Minister at Peking.\n\nAs a result of these instructions, the Shipping Companies then enjoying the services of regular naval and military guards were informed that these guards would be definitely withdrawn on the 31st March, 1930, and that after that date complete responsibility for the internal protection of shipping against piratical attacks must be assumed by them.\n\n6. Since the above decision was communicated to the Shipping Companies, persistent representations have been made by the shipowners to bring about a reversal of the Cabinet decision. The valuable time expressly provided by His Majesty's Government to enable the Shipping Companies to find a suitable substitute for the regular guards was thus lost, and the shipowners have laid themselves open to the accusation that they cherished the hope that inaction and procrastination in formulating a new scheme for the internal protection of shipping after the 31st March next might result in the provision of regular guards being continued. Representations by the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Shipping Companies would be incurring grave responsibilities in not taking early steps to provide against the position which would arise on the withdrawal of the naval and military guards appear to have had little effect until last month.\n\nApart from the principle that the onus of providing adequate measures for the internal defence of their ships must rest with the shipowners, it should also be appreciated that the provision of anti-piracy guards in the Far East has resulted in considerable disorganization of the forces stationed there. The Navy cannot provide detachments for this purpose without immobilising ships, while the training and efficiency for war of military units are seriously affected by the constant absence of a large number of N.C.O.'s and men.\n\n7. As reported in the second paragraph of the attached telegram, representations were made on the 13th February to the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong that he should receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme for the formation of a special force to be created of good-class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign N.C.O.'s, the whole to form a separate unit under its own Commanding Officer, and placed for training and discipline under the Naval Commander-in-Chief or the General Officer Commanding. It was suggested that the cost should be met in the first instance by the Government of Hong Kong and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the port, assisted by a grant in aid by His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\n7/",
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        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 71,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "APPENDIX.\n\nTelegram from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated February 21, 1930.\n\n(Confidential.)\n\nYOUR telegram of 1st February, Confidential: Anti-piracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th January, 1929, Confidential. I adhere to views expressed therein, and consider that shipping companies have not taken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against position which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and Military guards. I agree generally with the views expressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July, and Haiching piracy has not altered my views.\n\nThe attempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to secure certain opening by which pirates gained access to grilled area.\n\nI agree with Minister's views on this piracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December (1789). The shipping companies are at last alive to their position, and I received on 13th February a request to receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme, then for the first time put before this Government, that a special force should be created of good class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign n.c.o's, the whole to form a separate unit under its own commanding officer and placed for training and discipline under Naval Commander-in-Chief or G.O.C., the cost to be met in the first instance by this Government and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port, assisted by a grant-in-aid from the Imperial Government and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\nI received the deputation on the 17th February and found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively put at 400, with 35 white n.c.o.'s and 4 white headquarter staff. It was pointed out that if all shipping were taxed, all shipping passing through pirate zone would be likely to demand guards and 400 might prove insufficient. I declined to commit this Government to the expense of establishing such an organisation on the chance of recovering its cost later on without the fullest consideration. It became evident in the course of the discussion that strong opposition might be obtaining to any tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards. I am of opinion that the scheme is altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice. I pressed on the deputation the view that only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian guards, possibly supplemented by white n.c.o.'s, and it was left to deputation to confer with Inspector-General of Police, who was present at the discussion, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment. I consider that shipping utilising guards must bear the cost of the scheme.\n\nEven this scheme will take time to evolve, but it seems to offer only practical solution to difficulty in which shipping companies now find themselves. It may even be possible to develop scheme in time into a permanent force on the lines suggested by shipping companies, but I am myself doubtful if this will be found necessary. The possibility of utilising Weihaiwei Police Force on rendition of Weihaiwei was mentioned, but I am without information as to when the force might become available.\n\nThere remains the question of what is to be done between the 1st April and time when Indian guards can be supplied in sufficient numbers. To meet this difficulty I can only suggest that if, as Minister's despatch No. 1789 implies, it will still be possible to supply military guards, these should be continued but only on payment of full cost (see paragraph 5 of enclosure 3 to my despatch of the 5th January, 1929). It might well be disastrous to allow period to intervene without guards, and cost of military guard would be strong incentive to shipping companies to expedite less costly measure.\n\nCopy sent to Pekin, Canton, Shanghai, G.O.C., and Naval Commander-in-Chief.",
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 101,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "105\n\n5\n\n1\n\n(c) We agree that patrols by His Majesty's ships for the purpose of intercepting pirates should continue so far as the strength of the squadron in the Far East allows.\n\n(d) While recognizing that, for the present, the provision of regular naval and military guards on board ship must continue, we strongly recommend that the shipping companies should be informed that the provision of these guards will cease in one year's time, and that they will then have to assume full responsibility for the internal protection of their ships.\n\n(e) We suggest that the local authorities should be asked to consider how co-operation in intelligence between the various ports of call can be improved.\n\n(f) The root of piracy is firmly embedded in Chinese soil, and piracy can only be effectively suppressed by Chinese action on shore. We therefore suggest that strong representations should be made to the Nanking Government, if possible jointly with other foreign Powers, with a view to action being taken to this end. We suggest that the question of exacting reparation for injury to British lives or property should be considered.\n\n4.\n\nThe above report was considered by the Committee of Imperial Defence at their 240th Meeting on the 8th March, 1929, and it was agreed---\n\n(a) To recommend to the Cabinet that approval in principle should be given to the recommendations submitted by the Chiefs of Staff in paragraph 38 of their Report (C.I.D). Paper No. 330-C; and\n\n(b) To recommend that the Admiralty should be authorised to instruct the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Anti-Piracy Committee at Hong Kong should proceed on the assumption that the policy recommended by the Chiefs of Staff will be adopted in principle, and should submit in due course detailed proposals for giving effect to this policy.\n\n(c) To take note that the Foreign Office were prepared in principle to make representations to the Chinese Government at Nanking, either on the general question of piracy or in connection with each specific case, though they were not optimistic as to the result.\n\n5. On Wednesday, the 13th March, 1929, the Cabinet approved the recommendations of the Committee of Imperial Defence as set forth above (Cabinet 11(29), Conclusion 8), and the necessary instructions were communicated forthwith to the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, the Anti-Piracy Committee, Hong Kong, and His Majesty's Minister at Peking.\n\nAs a result of these instructions, the Shipping Companies then enjoying the services of regular naval and military guards were informed that these guards would be definitely withdrawn on the 31st March, 1930, and that after that date complete responsibility for the internal protection of shipping against piratical attacks must be assumed by them.\n\n6. Since the above decision was communicated to the Shipping Companies, persistent representations have been made by the shipowners to bring about a reversal of the Cabinet decision. The valuable time expressly provided by His Majesty's Government to enable the Shipping Companies to find a suitable substitute for the regular guards was thus lost, and the shipowners have laid themselves open to the accusation that they cherished the hope that inaction and procrastination in formulating a new scheme for the internal protection of shipping after the 31st March next might result in the provision of regular guards being continued. Representations by the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Shipping Companies would be incurring grave responsibilities in not taking early steps to provide against the position which would arise on the withdrawal of the naval and military guards appear to have had little effect until last month.\n\nApart from the principle that the onus of providing adequate measures for the internal defence of their ships must rest with the shipowners, it should also be appreciated that the provision of anti-piracy guards in the Far East has resulted in considerable disorganization of the forces stationed there. The Navy cannot provide detachments for this purpose without immobilising ships, while the training and efficiency for war of military units are seriously affected by the constant absence of large numbers of N.C.O.'s and men.\n\n7. As reported in the second paragraph of the attached telegram, representations were made on the 13th February to the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong that he should receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme for the formation of a special force to be created of good-class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign N.C.O.'s, the whole to form a separate unit under its own Commanding Officer, and placed for training and discipline under the Naval Commander-in-Chief or the General Officer Commanding. It was suggested that the cost should be met in the first instance by the Government of Hong Kong and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the port, assisted by a grant in aid by His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\n8. The Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong reports that, on receiving the deputation, he found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively stated to be 400, with 35 white N.C.O.'s and 4 white Headquarter Staff.\n\n9.\n\nIt was evident during the discussion that strong opposition would be offered to any general tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards.\n\n10.\n\nThe Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong considered the scheme altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice, and it was represented to the deputation that the only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian Guards, possibly supplemented by white N.C.O.'s. It was left to the deputation to confer with the Inspector-General of Police, Hong Kong, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment.\n\n11. No further information is yet available as to the result of the Conference with the Inspector-General of Police, but the Oversea Defence Committee suggest that unless very active steps are taken to press the Shipping Companies to evolve a satisfactory scheme and to implement it as soon as possible, a further long delay will occur. Whatever action may be taken now, however, the Committee are of opinion that it will be impossible for the Shipping Companies to produce an efficient substitute for the present naval and military guards by the 1st April.\n\n12. In view of the above, the Oversea Defence Committee feel it their duty to mention the forcible representations made to them to the effect that if advantage is taken of the absence of guards to undertake an intensive campaign of piracy, a serious blow will be dealt to British trade in the Far East.\n\nIt is for the Cabinet to decide whether this danger is of sufficient gravity to merit any modification of their original decision.\n\nThe Committee, however, venture to recommend that if it is decided to continue the provision of regular naval and military guards, such continuance should be for a definitely limited period, and should be on condition that the Shipping Companies evolve an efficient scheme and agree to bring it into operation at the earliest possible date, the latter date to be fixed by the 1st April. Furthermore, the Committee consider that if regular naval and military guards are extended after the 31st March, their full cost from the 1st April should be borne by those Shipping Companies which employ them.\n\n13.\n\nAs regards the details of a scheme for the provision of guards by the Shipping Companies, the Oversea Defence Committee consider that any practical scheme must emanate from the Companies after they have reached agreement amongst themselves. At this juncture, any detailed criticism of the proposals made to the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong up to date (vide Appendix) would be of little value.\n\nAt the same time, as the Companies cannot be expected to have the organizing and administrative knowledge, and undoubtedly have not the facilities for recruitment which are available to Government institutions, such as His Majesty's Forces and the Police, the Committee feel that it would expedite progress if the shipowners were informed that His Majesty's Government are willing to advise them on these matters.\n\n106",
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        "id": 522591,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 102,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "107\n\n6\n\npoints, and to consider favourably any application for the services of retired naval and military officers and other ranks.\n\n14. The Committee suggest that, since it has been decided that the internal protection of ships against piracy is the responsibility of the Shipping Companies, any scheme which is evolved should be based on the following principles :-\n\n(a) That the organization set up should ultimately be entirely independent of the Imperial and Colonial authorities.\n\n(b) That the whole cost, including that of initiating the scheme, should be borne by the Shipping Companies making use of the organization, and by them alone, in proportion to their demands on it, the distribution of the cost to be arranged amongst themselves.\n\n15. It should, perhaps, be pointed out that the scheme must include provision for shipping which at present embarks regular guards at places other than Hong Kong, such as Singapore and Shanghai.\n\n16. CONCLUSIONS.\n\nThe conclusions of the Oversea Defence Committee submitted for consideration by the Committee of Imperial Defence may be briefly summarised as follows:\n\n(a) It is not for the Committee to suggest any modification of the Cabinet decision to withdraw regular naval and military guards on the 31st March. If, however, the continuance of these guards for a further definitely limited period is considered desirable, the Committee propose that should be subject to the following conditions:-\n\n(i) That the Shipping Companies evolve an efficient scheme and agree to bring it into operation at the earliest possible date, this date to be fixed by the 1st April.\n\n(ii) That the full cost of any naval and military guards supplied after the 31st March be borne by those Shipping Companies which employ them.\n\n(b) That any practicable scheme should emanate from the Shipping Companies, but the Committee suggest that, in order to expedite progress, His Majesty's Government might inform the ship owners, both in London and in Hong Kong, that they would be willing to advise them, and to consider favourably any application for the services of retired naval and military officers and other ranks.\n\nc) That any organization which is set up should ultimately be independent of the Imperial and Colonial authorities, and that the whole cost, including that of initiating the scheme, should be borne by the Companies in proportion to their demands on it.\n\n(Signed)\n\n2, Whitehall Gardens, S.W. 1, March 10, 1930.\n\nG. N. MACREADY, Secretary, Oversea Defence Committee.\n\n7\n\nAPPENDIX.\n\nTelegram from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated February 21, 1930.\n\n(Confidential.)\n\nYOUR telegram of 1st February, Confidential: Anti-piracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th January, 1929, Confidential. I adhere to views expressed therein, and consider that shipping companies have not taken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against position which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and Military guards. I agree generally with the views expressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July, and Haiching piracy has not altered my views.\n\nThe attempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to secure certain opening by which pirates gained access to grilled area.\n\nI agree with Minister's views on this piracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December (1789). The shipping companies are at last alive to their position, and I received on 13th February a request to receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme, then for the first time put before this Government, that a special force should be created of good class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign n.c.o's, the whole to form a separate unit under its own commanding officer and placed for training and discipline under Naval Commander-in-Chief or G.O.C., the cost to be met in the first instance by this Government and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port, assisted by a grant-in-aid from the Imperial Government and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\nI received the deputation on the 17th February and found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively put at 400, with 35 white n.c.o.'s and 4 white headquarter staff. It was pointed out that if all shipping were taxed, all shipping passing through pirate zone would be likely to demand guards and 400 might prove insufficient. I declined to commit this Government to the expense of establishing such an organisation on the chance of recovering its cost later on without the fullest consideration. It became evident in the course of the discussion that strong opposition might be obtaining to any tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards. I am of opinion that the scheme is altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice. I pressed on the deputation the view that only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian guards, possibly supplemented by white n.c.o.'s, and it was left to deputation to confer with Inspector-General of Police, who was present at the discussion, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment. I consider that shipping utilising guards must bear the cost of the scheme.\n\nEven this scheme will take time to evolve, but it seems to offer only practical solution to difficulty in which shipping companies now find themselves. It may even be possible to develop scheme in time into a permanent force on the lines suggested by shipping companies, but I am myself doubtful if this will be found necessary. The possibility of utilising Weihaiwei Police Force on rendition of Weihaiwei was mentioned, but I am without information as to when the force might become available.\n\nThere remains the question of what is to be done between the 1st April and time when Indian guards can be supplied in sufficient numbers. To meet this difficulty I can only suggest that if, as Minister's despatch No. 1789 implies, it will still be possible to supply military guards, these should be continued but only on payment of full cost (see paragraph 5 of enclosure 3 to my despatch of the 5th January, 1929). It might well be disastrous to allow period to intervene without guards, and cost of military guard would be strong incentive to shipping companies to expedite less costly measure.\n\nCopy sent to Pekin, Canton, Shanghai, G.O.C., and Naval Commander-in-Chief.\n\n0\n\n108",
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        "id": 522595,
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        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 106,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "112\n\n(c) We agree that patrols by His Majesty's ships for the purpose of intercepting pirates should continue so far as the strength of the squadron in the Far East allows.\n\n(d) While recognizing that, for the present, the provision of regular naval and military guards on board ship must continue, we strongly recommend that the shipping companies should be informed that the provision of these guards will cease in one year's time, and that they will then have to assume full responsibility for the internal protection of their ships.\n\n(e) We suggest that the local authorities should be asked to consider how co-operation in intelligence between the various ports of call can be improved.\n\n(f) The root of piracy is firmly embedded in Chinese soil, and piracy can only be effectively suppressed by Chinese action on shore. We therefore suggest that strong representations should be made to the Nanking Government, if possible jointly with other foreign Powers, with a view to action being taken to this end. We suggest that the question of exacting reparation for injury to British lives or property should be considered.\n\n4. The above report was considered by the Committee of Imperial Defence at their 240th Meeting on the 8th March, 1929, and it was agreed-\n\n(a) To recommend to the Cabinet that approval in principle should be given to the recommendations submitted by the Chiefs of Staff in paragraph 38 of their Report (C.I.D. Paper No. 330-C); and\n\n(b) To recommend that the Admiralty should be authorised to instruct the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Anti-Piracy Committee at Hong Kong should proceed on the assumption that the policy recommended by the Chiefs of Staff will be adopted in principle, and should submit in due course detailed proposals for giving effect to this policy.\n\n(c) To take note that the Foreign Office were prepared in principle to make representations to the Chinese Government at Nanking, either on the general question of piracy or in connection with each specific case, though they were not optimistic as to the result.\n\n5. On Wednesday, the 13th March, 1929, the Cabinet approved the recommendations of the Committee of Imperial Defence as set forth above (Cabinet 11(29), Conclusion 8), and the necessary instructions were communicated forthwith to the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, the Anti-Piracy Committee, Hong Kong, and His Majesty's Minister at Peking.\n\nAs a result of these instructions, the Shipping Companies then enjoying the services of regular naval and military guards were informed that these guards would be definitely withdrawn on the 31st March, 1930, and that after that date complete responsibility for the internal protection of shipping against piratical attacks must be assumed by them.\n\n6. Since the above decision was communicated to the Shipping Companies, persistent representations have been made by the shipowners to bring about a reversal of the Cabinet decision. The valuable time expressly provided by His Majesty's Government to enable the Shipping Companies to find a suitable substitute for the regular guards was thus lost, and the shipowners have laid themselves open to the accusation that they cherished the hope that inaction and procrastination in formulating a new scheme for the internal protection of shipping after the 31st March next might result in the provision of regular guards being continued. Representations by the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Shipping Companies would be incurring grave responsibilities in not taking early steps to provide against the position which would arise on the withdrawal of the naval and military guards appear to have had little effect until last month.\n\nApart from the principle that the onus of providing adequate measures for the internal defence of their ships must rest with the shipowners, it should also be appreciated that the provision of anti-piracy guards in the Far East has resulted in considerable disorganization of the forces stationed there. The Navy cannot provide detachments for this purpose without immobilising ships, while the training and efficiency for war of military units are seriously affected by the constant absence of large numbers of N.C.O.'s and men.\n\n7. As reported in the second paragraph of the attached telegram, representations were made on the 13th February to the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong that he should receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme for the formation of a special force to be created of good-class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign N.C.O.'s, the whole to form a separate unit under its own Commanding Officer, and placed for training and discipline under the Naval Commander-in-Chief or the General Officer Commanding. It was suggested that the cost should be met in the first instance by the Government of Hong Kong and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the port, assisted by a grant in aid by His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\n8. The Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong reports that, on receiving the deputation, he found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively stated to be 400, with 35 white N.C.O.'s and 4 white Headquarter Staff.\n\n9. It was evident during the discussion that strong opposition would be offered to any general tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards.\n\n10. The Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong considered the scheme altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice, and it was represented to the deputation that the only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian Guards, possibly supplemented by white N.C.O.'s. It was left to the deputation to confer with the Inspector-General of Police, Hong Kong, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment.\n\n11. No further information is yet available as to the result of the Conference with the Inspector-General of Police, but the Oversea Defence Committee suggest that unless very active steps are taken to press the Shipping Companies to evolve a satisfactory scheme and to implement it as soon as possible, a further long delay will occur. Whatever action may be taken now, however, the Committee are of opinion that it will be impossible for the Shipping Companies to produce an efficient substitute for the present naval and military guards by the 1st April.\n\n12. In view of the above, the Oversea Defence Committee feel it their duty to mention the forcible representations made to them to the effect that if advantage is taken of the absence of guards to undertake an intensive campaign of piracy, a serious blow will be dealt to British trade in the Far East.\n\nIt is for the Cabinet to decide whether this danger is of sufficient gravity to merit any modification of their original decision.\n\nThe Committee, however, venture to recommend that if it is decided to continue the provision of regular naval and military guards, such continuance should be for a definitely limited period, and should be on condition that the Shipping Companies evolve an efficient scheme and agree to bring it into operation at the earliest possible date, the latter date to be fixed by the 1st April. Furthermore, the Committee consider that if regular naval and military guards are extended after the 31st March, their full cost from the 1st April should be borne by those Shipping Companies which employ them.\n\n13. As regards the details of a scheme for the provision of guards by the Shipping Companies, the Oversea Defence Committee consider that any practical scheme must emanate from the Companies after they have reached agreement amongst themselves. At this juncture, any detailed criticism of the proposals made to the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong up to date (vide Appendix) would be of little value.\n\nAt the same time, as the Companies cannot be expected to have the organizing and administrative knowledge, and undoubtedly have not the facilities for recruitment which are available to Government institutions, such as His Majesty's Forces and the Police, the Committee feel that it would expedite progress if the shipowners were informed that His Majesty's Government are willing to advise them on these matters.\n\n[20735]\n\nB 2\n\n113",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
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    {
        "id": 522596,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 107,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "14. The Committee suggest that, since it has been decided that the internal protection of ships against piracy is the responsibility of the Shipping Companies, any scheme which is evolved should be based on the following principles\n\n-\n\n(a) That the organization set up should ultimately be entirely independent of the Imperial and Colonial authorities.\n\n(b) That the whole cost, including that of initiating the scheme, should be borne by the Shipping Companies making use of the organization, and by them alone, in proportion to their demands on it, the distribution of the cost to be arranged amongst themselves.\n\n15. It should, perhaps, be pointed out that the scheme must include provision for shipping which at present embarks regular guards at places other than Hong Kong, such as Singapore and Shanghai.\n\nCONCLUSIONS.\n\n16. The conclusions of the Oversea Defence Committee submitted for consideration by the Committee of Imperial Defence may be briefly summarised as follows:\n\n(a) It is not for the Committee to suggest any modification of the Cabinet decision to withdraw regular naval and military guards on the 31st March. If, however, the continuance of these guards for a further definitely limited period is considered desirable, the Committee propose that it should be subject to the following conditions:-\n\n(i) That the Shipping Companies evolve an efficient scheme and agree to bring it into operation at the earliest possible date, this date to be fixed by the 1st April.\n\n(ii) That the full cost of any naval and military guards supplied after the 31st March be borne by those Shipping Companies which employ them.\n\n(b) That any practicable scheme should emanate from the Shipping Companies, but the Committee suggest that, in order to expedite progress, His Majesty's Government might inform the ship owners, both in London and in Hong Kong, that they would be willing to advise them, and to consider favourably any application for the services of retired naval and military officers and other ranks.\n\n(c) That any organization which is set up should ultimately be independent of the Imperial and Colonial authorities, and that the whole cost, including that of initiating the scheme, should be borne by the Companies in proportion to their demands on it.\n\n(Signed)\n\n2, Whitehall Gardens, S.W. 1,\n\nMarch 10, 1930.\n\nG. N. MACREADY, Secretary,\n\nOversea Defence Committee.\n\nAPPENDIX.\n\nTelegram from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated February 21, 1930.\n\n(Confidential.)\n\nYOUR telegram of 1st February, Confidential: Anti-piracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th January, 1929, Confidential. I adhere to views expressed therein, and consider that shipping companies have not taken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against the position which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and Military guards. I agree generally with the views expressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July, and Haiching piracy has not altered my views. The attempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to secure certain opening by which pirates gained access to the grilled area.\n\nI agree with Minister's views on this piracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December (1789). The shipping companies are at last alive to their position, and I received on 13th February a request to receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme, then for the first time put before this Government, that a special force should be created of good class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign N.C.O.'s, the whole to form a separate unit under its own commanding officer and placed for training and discipline under Naval Commander-in-Chief or G.O.C., the cost to be met in the first instance by this Government and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port, assisted by a grant-in-aid from the Imperial Government and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\nI received the deputation on the 17th February and found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively put at 400, with 35 white N.C.O.'s and 4 white headquarters staff. It was pointed out that if all shipping were taxed, all shipping passing through the pirate zone would be likely to demand guards and 400 might prove insufficient. I declined to commit this Government to the expense of establishing such an organisation on the chance of recovering its cost later on without the fullest consideration. It became evident in the course of the discussion that strong opposition might be obtaining to any tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards. I am of the opinion that the scheme is altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice. I pressed on the deputation the view that the only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian guards, possibly supplemented by white N.C.O.'s, and it was left to the deputation to confer with the Inspector-General of Police, who was present at the discussion, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment. I consider that shipping utilising guards must bear the cost of the scheme.\n\nEven this scheme will take time to evolve, but it seems to offer the only practical solution to the difficulty in which shipping companies now find themselves. It may even be possible to develop the scheme in time into a permanent force on the lines suggested by shipping companies, but I am myself doubtful if this will be found necessary. The possibility of utilising Weihaiwei Police Force on the rendition of Weihaiwei was mentioned, but I am without information as to when the force might become available.\n\nThere remains the question of what is to be done between the 1st April and the time when Indian guards can be supplied in sufficient numbers. To meet this difficulty, I can only suggest that if, as Minister's despatch No. 1789 implies, it will still be possible to supply military guards, these should be continued but only on payment of the full cost (see paragraph 5 of enclosure 3 to my despatch of the 5th January, 1929). It might well be disastrous to allow a period to intervene without guards, and the cost of military guards would be a strong incentive to shipping companies to expedite a less costly measure.\n\nCopy sent to Pekin, Canton, Shanghai, G.O.C., and Naval Commander-in-Chief.\n\nPage 115",
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    {
        "id": 522602,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 113,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "121\n\n122\n\nagree\n\n(c) We that patrols by His Majesty's ships for the purpose of intercepting pirates should continue so far as the strength of the squadron in the Far East allows.\n\n(d) While recognizing that, for the present, the provision of regular naval and military guards on board ship must continue, we strongly recommend that the shipping companies should be informed that the provision of these guards will cease in one year's time, and that they will then have to assume full responsibility for the internal protection of their ships.\n\n(e) We suggest that the local authorities should be asked to consider how co-operation in intelligence between the various ports of call can be improved.\n\n(f) The root of piracy is firmly embedded in Chinese soil, and piracy can only be effectively suppressed by Chinese action on shore. We therefore suggest that strong representations should be made to the Nanking Government, if possible jointly with other foreign Powers, with a view to action being taken to this end. We suggest that the question of exacting reparation for injury to British lives or property should be considered.\n\nThe above report was considered by the Committee of Imperial Defence at their 240th Meeting on the 8th March, 1929, and it was agreed-\n\n4.\n\n*(a) To recommend to the Cabinet that approval in principle should be given to the recommendations submitted by the Chiefs of Staff in paragraph 38 of their Report (C.I.D. Paper No. 330-C); and\n\n(b) To recommend that the Admiralty should be authorised to instruct the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Anti-Piracy Committee at Hong Kong should proceed on the assumption that the policy recommended by the Chiefs of Staff will be adopted in principle, and should submit in due course detailed proposals for giving effect to this policy.\n\n(c) To take note that the Foreign Office were prepared in principle to make representations to the Chinese Government at Nanking, either on the general question of piracy or in connection with each specific case, though they were not optimistic as to the result.\n\n5. On Wednesday, the 13th March, 1929, the Cabinet approved the recommendations of the Committee of Imperial Defence as set forth above (Cabinet 11(29), Conclusion 8), and the necessary instructions were communicated forthwith to the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, the Anti-Piracy Committee, Hong Kong, and His Majesty's Minister at Peking.\n\nAs a result of these instructions, the Shipping Companies then enjoying the services of regular naval and military guards were informed that these guards would be definitely withdrawn on the 31st March, 1930, and that after that date complete responsibility for the internal protection of shipping against piratical attacks must be assumed by them.\n\n6. Since the above decision was communicated to the Shipping Companies there have been many indications that the latter were extremely reluctant to dispense with the assistance of regular naval and military guards, and there is little doubt that they cherished the hope that inaction and delay in formulating a new scheme for the protection of shipping after the 31st March next might result in the provision of regular guards being continued. Frequent representations by the Naval Commander-in-Chief, China, that the Shipping Companies would be incurring grave responsibilities in not taking early steps to provide against the position which would arise on the withdrawal of the naval and military guards appear to have had little effect until last month.\n\n7. As reported in the second paragraph of the attached telegram, representations were made on the 13th February to the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong that he should receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme for the formation of a special force to be created of good-class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign N.C.O.'s, the whole to form a separate unit under its own Commanding Officer, and placed for training and discipline under the Naval Commander-in-Chief or the General Officer Commanding. It was suggested that the cost should be met in the first instance by the Government of Hong Kong and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the port, assisted by a grant in aid by the Imperial Government, and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\n8.\n\nThe Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong reports that, on receiving the deputation, he found that the scheme had only been considered in rough outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively stated to be 400, with 35 white N.C.O.'s and 4 white Headquarter Staff.\n\n9. It was evident during the discussion that strong opposition would be offered to any general tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards.\n\n10.\n\nThe Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong considered the scheme altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice, and it was represented to the deputation that the only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian Guards, possibly supplemented by white N.C.O.'s. It was left to the deputation to confer with the Inspector-General of Police, Hong Kong, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment.\n\n11. No further information is yet available as to the result of the conference with the Inspector-General, but the Oversea Defence Committee suggest that, unless very active steps are taken to promote a scheme, and to induce the Companies concerned to accept it, a further delay of some months will occur. In any case, it would appear impossible to evolve and put into practice a satisfactory scheme by the 31st March, on which date, according to the present Cabinet decision, the regular naval and military guards are to be withdrawn.\n\n12. The Committee are in full agreement with the views expressed by the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong on the vague proposals submitted by the Shipping Companies.\n\nThey suggest that, since it has been accepted that the internal protection of ships against piracy is the responsibility of the Shipping Companies, any scheme which is evolved should be based on the following principles:-\n\n(a) That the organization set up should be entirely independent of the British naval and military forces. Preferably, it should also be independent of British Colonial Police Forces, although, as suggested below, it is probably desirable that the initiation of the scheme should be undertaken by the Government of Hong Kong through the agency of the Inspector-General of Police.\n\n(b) That the whole of the cost should be borne by the Shipping Companies making use of the organization, and by them alone, in proportion to their demands on it.\n\n13. With reference to (a), the Committee would invite particular attention to the serious disorganization of the British Naval and Military forces in the Far East which has been caused in recent years by the provision of anti-piracy guards. The Navy cannot provide detachments for this purpose without immobilising ships, whilst the training and efficiency for war of military units are seriously affected by the constant absence of large numbers of men and N.C.O.'s.\n\n14. As regards (b), it is clearly inequitable that the cost of the scheme should be recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting Hong Kong (or Singapore), since many lines, such as the P. & O., who do not deal in coolie traffic or have a sufficient percentage of white personnel among their crews, never require the assistance of anti-piracy guards.\n\n15. Although, as stated above, the inaction of the Shipping Companies during the last year has no doubt been largely due to a hope that, in the absence of measures for the protection of shipping after the 31st March, the regular guards might be continued, the Oversea Defence Committee recognize that it might be a matter of no little difficulty for a number of separate Shipping Companies to organize co-operatively what is in effect a small police force. The Companies have probably little of the organizing and administrative knowledge required, and undoubtedly have not the facilities for recruitment which are available to Government institutions, such as the Police.\n\n[20735]\n\nB 2",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
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    {
        "id": 522604,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 115,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "125\n\n# APPENDIX.\n\nTelegram from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated February 21, 1930.\n\n(Confidential.)\n\nYOUR telegram of 1st February, Confidential: Anti-piracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th January, 1929, Confidential. I adhere to views expressed therein, and consider that shipping companies have not taken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against position which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and Military guards. I agree generally with the views expressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July, and Haiching piracy has not altered my views.\n\nThe attempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to secure certain opening by which pirates gained access to grilled area.\n\nI agree with Minister's views on this piracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December (1789). The shipping companies are at last alive to their position, and I received on 13th February a request to receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme, then for the first time put before this Government, that a special force should be created of good class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign n.c.o's, the whole to form a separate unit under its own commanding officer and placed for training and discipline under Naval Commander-in-Chief or G.O.C., the cost to be met in the first instance by this Government and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port, assisted by a grant-in-aid from the Imperial Government and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\nI received the deputation on the 17th February and found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained, nor did the details involved seem to have been considered. The number of men required was tentatively put at 400, with 35 white n.c.o.'s and 4 white headquarter staff. It was pointed out that if all shipping were taxed, all shipping passing through pirate zone would be likely to demand guards and 400 might prove insufficient. I declined to commit this Government to the expense of establishing such an organisation on the chance of recovering its cost later on without the fullest consideration. It became evident in the course of the discussion that strong opposition might be obtaining to any tax which would increase charges on shipping not interested in anti-piracy guards. I am of opinion that the scheme is altogether too nebulous and too expensive to be undertaken at a moment's notice. I pressed on the deputation the view that only scheme admitting of prompt application was a development of the former system of Indian guards, possibly supplemented by white n.c.o.'s, and it was left to deputation to confer with Inspector-General of Police, who was present at the discussion, with a view to evolving a practical scheme at the earliest possible moment. I consider that shipping utilising guards must bear the cost of the scheme.\n\nEven this scheme will take time to evolve, but it seems to offer only practical solution to difficulty in which shipping companies now find themselves. It may even be possible to develop scheme in time into a permanent force on the lines suggested by shipping companies, but I am myself doubtful if this will be found necessary. The possibility of utilising Weihaiwei Police Force on rendition of Weihaiwei was mentioned, but I am without information as to when the force might become available.\n\nThere remains the question of what is to be done between the 1st April and time when Indian guards can be supplied in sufficient numbers. To meet this difficulty I can only suggest that if, as Minister's despatch No.1789 implies, it will still be possible to supply military guards, these should be continued but only on payment of full cost (see paragraph 5 of enclosure 3 to my despatch of the 5th January, 1929). It might well be disastrous to allow period to intervene without guards, and cost of military guard would be strong incentive to shipping companies to expedite less costly measure.\n\nCopy sent to Pekin, Canton, Shanghai, G.O.C., and Naval Commander-in-Chief.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 522609,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 120,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "ENCLOSURE.\n\n130\n\nTELEGRAM\n\nfrom the Officer Administering the Government\n\nof Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies.\n\nDated 21st February, 1930.\n\n(Received Colonial Office 1.40 p.m. 21st February, 1930).\n\nConfidential.\n\nYour telegram of 1st February Confidential anti-\n\npiracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th\n\nJanuary 1929 confidential. I adhere to views expressed\n\ntherein and consider that shipping companies have not\n\ntaken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against\n\nposition which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and\n\nMilitary guards. I agree generally with the views\n\nexpressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July\n\nand Haiching piracy has not altered my views.\n\nAttempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to\n\nsecure certain opening by which pirates gained access to\n\ngrilled area. I agree with Minister's views on this\n\npiracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December\n\n(1789).\n\nThe shipping companies are at last alive to their\n\nposition and I received on 15th February a request to\n\nreceive a deputation for the purpose of considering a\n\nscheme then for the first time put before this Government\n\nthat a special force should be created of good class\n\nfighting men from India with an establishment of British\n\nor foreign N.C.O.'s the whole to form a separate unit under\n\nits own commanding officer and placed for training and\n\n-1-\n\nPage 120\n\nPage 121",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 522613,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 124,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "ENCLOSURE.\n\n134\n\nTELEGRAM\n\nfrom the Officer Administering the Government\n\nof Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies.\n\nDated 21st February, 1930.\n\n(Received Colonial Office 1.40 p.m. 21st February, 1930).\n\nConfidential.\n\nYour telegram of 1st February Confidential anti-\n\npiracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th\n\nJanuary 1920 confidential. I adhere to views expressed\n\ntherein and consider that shipping companies have not\n\ntaken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against\n\nposition which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and\n\nMilitary guards. I agree generally with the views\n\nexpressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July\n\nand Haiching piracy has not altered my views. The\n\nattempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to\n\nsecure certain opening by which pirates gained access to\n\ngrilled area. I agree with Minister's views on this\n\npiracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December\n\n(1789).\n\nThe shipping companies are at last alive to their\n\nposition and I received on 15th February a request to\n\nreceive a deputation for the purpose of considering a\n\nscheme then for the first time put before this Government\n\nthat a special force should be created of good class\n\nfighting men from India with an establishment of British\n\nor foreign N.C.O.'s the whole to form a separate unit under\n\nits own commanding officer and placed for training and\n\n-1-",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 522624,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 135,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "Telegram from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies.\n\nDated 21st February, 1930.\n\n(Received Colonial Office 1.40 p.m. 21st February, 1930)\n\nConfidential.\n\n72747/30\n\nYour telegram of 1st February Confidential anti-piracy. guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th January 1929 confidential. I adhere to views expressed therein and consider that shipping companies have not taken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against position which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and Military guards. I agree generally with the views expressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July and Haiching piracy has not altered my views. The attempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to secure certain opening by which pirates gained access to grilled area. I agree with Minister's views on this piracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December (1789).\n\nThe shipping companies are at last alive to their position and I received on 13th February a request to receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme then for the first time put before this Government that a special force should be created of good class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign N.C.O's the whole to form a separate unit under its own commanding officer and placed for training and discipline under Naval Commander in Chief or G.O.C. the cost to be met in the first instance by this Government and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port assisted by a grant in aid from the Imperial Government and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\n5",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 522627,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "page_number": 138,
        "title": "CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930",
        "content_text": "Page 12\n\nORIGINAL DECODE\n\nRECEIVED\n\n22FEB 1930\n\nCOL. OFFICE\n\nof a telegram from the A.G. HONG KONG\n\n148\n\nColonial\n\nDated 21st Feb 1930. Received in the\n\nOffice at 1.40 p.m.\n\non 21st Feb 30\n\nDominions\n\nDecoded X..\n\nby\n\nDecyphered\n\nConfidential. Your tel of 1st Feb Confidential anti-piracy guards. I invite reference to my despatch of 5th Jan 1929 confidential. I adhere to views expressed therein and consider that shipping companies have not taken adequate steps in the meantime to provide against position which will arise on withdrawal of Naval and Military guards. I agree generally with the views expressed in anti-piracy committee's report of 2nd July and Haiching piracy has not altered my views. The attempt in that case was rendered possible by failure to secure certain information by which pirates gained access to guarded areas. I agree with Minister's views on this piracy expressed in his despatch of 12th December (1789).\n\nThe shipping companies are at last alive to their position and I received on 13th Feb a request to receive a deputation for the purpose of considering a scheme then for the first time put before this Government that a special force should be created of good class fighting men from India with an establishment of British or foreign officers, the whole to form a separate unit under its own commanding officer and placed for training and discipline under Naval Commander in Chief or G.O.C. the cost to be met in the first instance by this Government and recovered by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port assisted by a grant in aid from the Imperial Government and a contribution from the Singapore Government and other unspecified sources.\n\nI received the deputation on 17th Feb and found that the scheme had only been considered in barest outline. No idea of the cost had been obtained nor did the details involved\n\nPage 148",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-2 Piracy in Chinese waters- anti-piracy measures 9-1-1930 - 10-4-1930.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 522950,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-521-4 Piracy in Chinese waters- China Navigation Company Ltd- H.M. Attorney General; responsibility of British Government... 24-6-1930 - 23-4-1931",
        "page_number": 99,
        "title": "CO129-521-4 Piracy in Chinese waters- China Navigation Company Ltd- H.M. Attorney General; responsibility of British Government... 24-6-1930 - 23-4-1931",
        "content_text": "HONG KONG, 13th February, 1930.\n\n[11\n\nSir,\n\nWe have the honour to address Your Excellency upon the subject of adequate protection of British merchant ships against the piracy menace.\n\n2.\n\nThe prevention of piracy is a matter of serious concern not only to these ships and their personnel, but also to all connected with trade to and from this Colony. It is therefore incumbent upon all those interested, to consider effective ways and means whereby the necessary protection for shipping is to be afforded when the military guards now being provided are withdrawn.\n\n3. We beg to submit that in the circumstances a Special Force should be created, of good class fighting men from India, with an establishment of British or Foreign N.C.Os. to ensure a foreigner being in control on each ship with a guard, and we also submit that in order to be maintained efficiently this Force should be a separate unit under its own Commanding Officer and placed for training and discipline under the Commander-in-Chief or the G.O.C. China Command.\n\n4. We submit that the cost of financing this Force should be provided by a surcharge on all shipping visiting the Port, assisted by a grant-in-aid from the Imperial Government, and a contribution from the Singapore Government who are to a lesser degree also concerned in this serious matter, or by such other means as may be decided upon after consideration by the Government.\n\n5. We earnestly request that this matter receive the",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-521-4 Piracy in Chinese waters- China Navigation Company Ltd- H.M. Attorney General; responsibility of British Government... 24-6-1930 - 23-4-1931.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 526105,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-526-6 Schemes for employment of time-expired soldiers 4-2-1930 - 12-12-1930",
        "page_number": 21,
        "title": "CO129-526-6 Schemes for employment of time-expired soldiers 4-2-1930 - 12-12-1930",
        "content_text": "## 2.\n\n21 \n\nemployment in Hong Kong. It is hoped to place a few more before the Battalion leaves, and to continue to send men to Hong Kong after they have left the Station. It is for the furtherance of this scheme, enlarged by the inclusion of men from other units also, that the co-operation of the Hong Kong Government is being sought.\n\n3. The Committee carefully considered the position and makes the following recommendations:- \n\n(a) That the Inspector General of Police shall interview any man of the King's Own Scottish Borderers or any other Unit put forward who is due for discharge before March 31st, 1931, and who wishes to find employment in the Hong Kong Police; further that he should keep a waiting list of those men whom he considers suitable and, as vacancies occur, apply to the Battalion in India for them.\n\n(b) That the Superintendent of Prisons and Head of the Sanitary Department and other Departments interested, shall do likewise.\n\n(c) That a circular be sent to all Government Departments and that the Heads of these Departments be asked to estimate the probable vacancies in their Departments for the coming year so that similar waiting lists may be prepared by them. If successful, it is proposed that Heads of Departments should be circularized annually to ascertain what men, due for discharge while stationed in Hong Kong, can be absorbed.\n\n(d) That Officer Commanding 2nd Battalion King's Own Scottish Borderers and all other Officers Commanding concerned, shall make every endeavour to get the Government of India to give free passages to men who are",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-526-6 Schemes for employment of time-expired soldiers 4-2-1930 - 12-12-1930.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 534308,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-540-1 Enrolment of foreign nationals to Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps 31-3-1932 - 19-1-1933",
        "page_number": 23,
        "title": "CO129-540-1 Enrolment of foreign nationals to Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps 31-3-1932 - 19-1-1933",
        "content_text": "Page 360\n\n23rd Dec.]\n\nAuxiliary Units.\n\n(A.D. 1927.\n\nA.D. 1927.]\n\n(k) Supplementary Reserve Company.\n\n(4) Army Service Corps Cadre.\n\n(m) Lights Section Cadre.\n\n(n) Reserve of Officers.\n\n(2) Subject to the provisions of the Army Act and of the Hong Kong Volunteer Ordinance, 1920, and of these regulations, the corps shall be under the orders of the General Officer Commanding the Troops, subject to the general control of the Governor.\n\n(3) The corps shall be under the executive command of an officer who may be either a volunteer officer or an officer of His Majesty's regular forces. If this officer is a volunteer officer, the adjutant of the corps shall be an officer of His Majesty's regular forces, appointed by the Army Council, unless no regular officer is available.\n\n(4) The Commandant of the corps shall be assisted by an administration staff.\n\n(5) The corps Headquarters shall include the Band.\n\n(6) There shall be a specially trained sub-unit of signallers.\n\n(7) The Reserve Company shall consist generally of men who have reached the age of 40 years. No man who is under that age shall join the Reserve Company except with the special permission of the Commandant.\n\n(8) The Supplementary Reserve Company shall consist generally of men who have attained the age of 50 years. Members of the Supplementary Reserve Company shall not be required to undergo training, and shall not,\n\nPage 361\n\n[23rd Dec.\n\nunless called out for actual military service, be required to attend any parade or inspection.\n\n(9) (a) The Army Service Corps Cadre and Lights Section Cadre shall consist of specially selected individuals whose previous training has rendered them fit to perform such duties as they may be required to perform if called out for actual military service.\n\n(b) The members of the said Cadres shall upon admission make and sign in the presence of an officer of the corps the declaration set out in Form No. 3 in the Second Schedule to the Volunteer Ordinance, 1920.\n\n(c) If either of the said Cadres is called out for actual military service every member thereof shall thereupon take the oath or make the declaration specified in Forms Nos. 1 and 2 in the Second Schedule to the Volunteer Ordinance, 1920, unless he has already taken the said oath or made the said declaration and has not quitted the corps after the taking of such oath or the making of such declaration.\n\n(d) The members of the said Cadres shall not be required to undergo any training, and shall not, unless called out for actual military service, be required to attend any parade or inspection.\n\n(e) No uniform will be issued to the members of the said Cadres unless they are called out for actual military service.\n\n(f) A member of either of the said Cadres may also be a member of the Reserve Company, in which case he shall be subject to all the obligations to which members of that company are subject.\n\n23",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-540-1 Enrolment of foreign nationals to Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps 31-3-1932 - 19-1-1933.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 534309,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-540-1 Enrolment of foreign nationals to Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps 31-3-1932 - 19-1-1933",
        "page_number": 24,
        "title": "CO129-540-1 Enrolment of foreign nationals to Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps 31-3-1932 - 19-1-1933",
        "content_text": "24\n\n362\n\n23rd Dec.]\n\n[A.D. 1927.\n\n(g) All members of the Army Service Corps Cadre and Lights Section Cadre shall be at liberty to attend any voluntary parades or exercises organized by their officers.\n\n(10) Any officer of the Corps whose transfer to the Reserve of Officers is approved by the Governor, and every officer of the Corps who shall be absent from the Colony for a longer period than fifteen consecutive months, shall be transferred to the Reserve of Officers. The said period of fifteen consecutive months may be wholly or in part prior to the date of this regulation.\n\n(11) An officer who shall have been transferred to the Reserve of Officers by reason of absence as aforesaid and shall thereafter return to the Colony may be transferred to the active list or be retained in the Reserve of Officers at the discretion of the Commandant.\n\n(12) Members of the Reserve of Officers shall not be required to undergo any training, and shall not, unless called up for actual military service, be required to attend any parade or inspection.\n\n(13) The Commandant may, with the approval of the Governor, establish one or more cadet companies in connection with the Corps, and every such company shall, as regards its establishment, administration, and government, be subject to such regulations as the Commandant may make with the approval of the Governor.\n\n3. The First Appendix to the First Schedule to the Volunteer Ordinance, 1920, as duly enacted on the 5th day of November, 1926, by the Officer for the time being commanding His Majesty's regular forces in the\n\nA.D. 1927.]\n\n[23rd Dec.\n\n363\n\nColony, and published in the Gazette of the 12th day of November, 1926, is rescinded and the following is substituted therefor :-\n\n[First Sch., Reg. 7.]\n\nFirst Appendix.\n\nTRAINING.\n\n1. For training purposes the year will be divided into the two following periods :-\n\nCold weather:-15th October to 15th April. Hot weather:-16th April to 14th October.\n\n2. There will be a camp of exercise during the cold weather.\n\n3. Subject to the provisions of paragraphs 4, 5, and 6, and subject to the regulations in the First Schedule to the Volunteer Ordinance, 1920, relating to members of auxiliary units, every officer and every volunteer shall undergo the following training annually:-\n\n(a) Attend 15 drills or instruction parades, each drill or instruction parade to consist of not less than one hour's actual instruction.\n\n(b) Carry out the range practices prescribed for the unit of the Corps to which he belongs.\n\n(c) Perform such training preliminary to range practice as may be ordered by the Commandant, provided that this shall not exceed 3 hours in total duration.\n\n25",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-540-1 Enrolment of foreign nationals to Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps 31-3-1932 - 19-1-1933.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 536627,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "page_number": 17,
        "title": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "content_text": "# \n## Commission \n4. The officers of the corps shall be British subjects and shall be commissioned by the Governor; and no such commission shall be deemed vacated by death or retirement from office of the Governor by whom the same was issued.\n\n## Right of volunteer to quit corps on certain conditions\n5.-(1) Subject as hereinafter mentioned, any volunteer may, except on actual military service, quit the corps on complying with the following conditions:-\n(a) giving to the Commandant fourteen days notice in writing of his intention to quit the corps;\n(b) delivering up in good order (fair wear and tear only excepted) all arms, clothing, and appointments, being public property or property of the corps, issued to him; and\n(c) paying all money due or becoming due by him under this Ordinance or under any regulations made thereunder or under the rules of the corps, either before or at the time or by reason of his quitting it;\nand thereupon he shall be struck out of the muster roll of the corps by the Commandant.\n\n(2) If any volunteer gives such notice and the Commandant refuses to strike him out of the muster roll, and the volunteer considers himself aggrieved thereby, the volunteer may appeal to a magistrate, who shall hear and determine the appeal, and may, for the purposes thereof, administer oaths and examine any person as a witness, and, if it appears to the magistrate that the arms, clothing, and appointments issued to the volunteer, being public property or property of his corps, have been delivered up in good order (fair wear and tear only excepted), or that he has paid or is ready to pay sufficient compensation for any damages that such articles may have sustained, and that all moneys due or becoming due by him under this Ordinance or under any regulations made thereunder or under the rules of the corps, either before or at the time of or by reason of his quitting it, have been paid, the magistrate may order the Commandant forthwith to strike such volunteer out of the muster roll of the corps, and such determination shall be binding on all persons.\n\n(3) Notwithstanding anything hereinbefore contained, every volunteer, other than a member of an auxiliary unit, shall be deemed to have engaged himself to serve for a period of at least three years from the date of his first admission to the corps, and if he quits, or is discharged from, the corps before the expiration of the first year of the said period he shall pay to the Commandant the sum of sixty dollars, if after the expiration of the first year and before the expiration of the second year the sum of forty dollars, and if after the expiration of the second year and before the expiration of the third year the sum of twenty dollars: Provided that no such sum shall be payable by a volunteer who, in the opinion of the Commandant, bona fide intends to leave the Colony forthwith for a period of at least one year, or who quits his corps for any other cause which the Commandant may consider reasonable and bona fide: Provided also that nothing in this sub-section shall relieve any volunteer from the obligation to comply with the provisions of sub-section (1) if he wishes to quit the corps.\n\n## Volunteers to be under command of officers of regular forces\n6. Whenever any volunteers are on actual military service, or are undergoing drill, exercise or inspection together with His Majesty's regular forces, or are voluntarily doing duty together with such forces, they and their officers shall, subject to any regulations made under this Ordinance, be under the command of the officers of His Majesty's regular forces, so, nevertheless, that the volunteers shall, when the circumstances of the service admit, be led by their own officers under such command.\n\n## Annual inspection of corps\n7. An annual inspection of the corps shall be held by a general or field officer of His Majesty's army.\n\n## Disbanding of corps\n8. The Governor may disband or discontinue the services of the corps or any part thereof whenever it may seem to him expedient to do so.\n\n## Courts of inquiry\n9. The General Officer Commanding the Troops with the approval of the Governor, may at any time assemble a court of inquiry comprised of officers of the corps to inquire into any matter relative to the corps or to any officer of the corps or volunteer, and to record the facts and circumstances ascertained on such inquiry, and, if so required, to report on the same for the information of the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n## Regulations\n10.-(1) The General Officer Commanding the Troops may, with the approval of the Governor after consultation with the Commandant, make regulations respecting the constitution, general government, discipline and training of the corps, and in particular respecting\n| Item | Description |\n| --- | --- |\n| (a) | conditions of efficiency; |\n| (b) | appointment, promotion and rank of officers; and |\n| (c) | assembling and proceedings of courts of inquiry. |\n\n(2) The regulations contained in the First Schedule shall be deemed to have been made under this Ordinance and shall continue in force except in so far as they may be rescinded or amended or added to by regulations made under this Ordinance, or by any other Ordinance.\n\n## PART II. ACTUAL MILITARY SERVICE\n## Calling out for actual military service in case of national emergency, invasion, or serious local disturbance\n11. (1) In case of great national or local emergency, or in case of actual or apprehended invasion of or attack on the Colony, or in case of serious local disturbance, or in case it may be desirable to take precautions against the possibility of serious local disturbance, the Governor may, by proclamation, call out the corps or any portion thereof for actual military service.\n\n(2) Every officer of the corps and volunteer so called out shall be bound to assemble at such place as may be directed by the Governor, and to perform such service as may be required under the orders of the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(3) Every such officer and volunteer so called out shall, for the purposes of this Ordinance, be deemed to be on actual military service. If any such officer or volunteer, not being incapacitated by infirmity for service, refuses or neglects so to assemble, he shall be deemed a deserter.\n\n(4) The period of such service shall continue so long as the Governor may consider necessary, and shall end only by order of the Governor.\n\n3 \n18",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933.txt",
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    {
        "id": 536633,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "page_number": 23,
        "title": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "content_text": "# Establish-ment of corps.\n\n## 10 - 11 corps\n\n(3) The corps shall be under the executive command of an officer who may be either a volunteer officer or an officer of His Majesty's regular forces. If this officer is a volunteer officer, the adjutant of the corps shall be an officer of His Majesty's regular forces, appointed by the Army Council, unless no regular officer is available. Appointment as Commandant will be made for a period of four years. The Governor, upon the recommendation of the General Officer Commanding the Troops, may extend such period for terms not exceeding two years, but no Commandant will be permitted to retain his command beyond eight years in all, or beyond the age laid down in regulation 6 of these regulations, whichever may first happen.\n\n(4) The Reserve Company shall consist generally of men who have reached the age of 40 years. No man who is under that age shall join the Reserve Company except with the special permission of the Commandant.\n\n(5)-(a) The Army Service Corps Cadre and Lights Section Cadre shall consist of specially selected individuals whose previous training has rendered them fit to perform such duties as they may be required to perform if called out for actual military service.\n\n(b) The members of the said Cadres and of the Anti-aircraft Light Automatic Company shall upon admission make and sign in the presence of an officer of the corps the declaration set out in `Form No. 3` in the Second Schedule to the **Volunteer Ordinance, 1983**.\n\n(c) If either of the said Cadres or the Anti-aircraft Light Automatic Company is called out for actual military service, every member thereof shall thereupon take the oath or make the declaration specified in `Forms Nos. 1 and 2` in the Second Schedule to the **Volunteer Ordinance, 1983**, unless he has already taken the said oath or made the said declaration and has not quitted the corps after the taking of such oath or the making of such declaration.\n\n(d) The members of the said Cadres shall not be required to undergo any training, and shall not, unless called out for actual military service, be required to attend any parade or inspection.\n\n(e) No uniform will be issued to the members of the said Cadres or the Anti-aircraft Light Automatic Company unless they are called out for actual military service.\n\n(f) A member of either of the said Cadres or the Anti-aircraft Light Automatic Company may also be a member of the Reserve Company, in which case he shall be subject to all the obligations to which members of that company are subject.\n\n(g) All members of the Army Service Corps Cadre, Lights Section Cadre, and the Anti-aircraft Light Automatic Company shall be at liberty to attend any voluntary parades or exercises organized by their officers.\n\n(6) Any officer of the corps whose transference to the Reserve of Officers is approved by the Governor, and every officer of the corps who shall be absent from the Colony for a longer period than fifteen consecutive months, shall be transferred to the Reserve of Officers. The said period of fifteen consecutive months may be wholly or in part prior to the date of the coming into force of these regulations.\n\n(7) An officer of the corps who shall have been transferred to the Reserve of Officers by reason of absence as aforesaid and shall thereafter return to the Colony may be transferred to the active list or be retained in the Reserve of Officers at the discretion of the Commandant.\n\n(8) Members of the Reserve of Officers shall not be required to undergo any training, and shall not, unless called up for actual military service, be required to attend any parade or inspection.\n\n(9) The Commandant may, with the approval of the Governor, establish one or more cadet companies in connection with the corps, and every such company shall, as regards its establishment, administration, and government, be subject to such regulations as the Commandant may make with the approval of the Governor.\n\n## 4. Establishment of the corps\n\nThe establishment of the corps shall be fixed from time to time as circumstances may require.\n\n## 5.-(1) Recommendations for the appointment and promotion of all officers of units\n\nAppoint-ment and promotion of officers and staff.\n\nwill be submitted by the Commandant to the Governor through the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(2) Every officer upon his first appointment in the corps to any rank, and every officer before promotion to any higher rank, shall pass the examination prescribed for that rank: Provided that the General Officer Commanding the Troops may exempt any officer from compliance with this paragraph either wholly or in part, and may extend the time for passing such examination, but if any officer fails to comply with the conditions of any such exemption or extension, he shall revert to his former rank.\n\n(3) The nature of the examination in each case shall be as may be prescribed by the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(4) The examining board shall be appointed by the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n(5) An officer whose turn for promotion arrives may be superseded if he has not passed the prescribed examination.\n\n(6) Supernumerary officers may be appointed in any unit, but any such officers shall be absorbed into the establishment as soon as vacancies occur therein.\n\n(7) All appointments and promotions of members of the staff and of officers shall be notified in the **Gazette** and shall take effect from the date of such **Gazette** or from such other date as may be specified in the notification.\n\n(8) The appointment and promotion of all members of the staff and officers are vested in the Governor.\n\n## 6. Compulsory retirement of officers\n\nThe ages at which officers of the corps shall be compulsorily retired shall be in accordance with the following table:\n\n| Rank | Years |\n| --- | --- |\n| Colonels | 57 |\n| Lieutenant Colonels | 55 |\n| Majors | 50 |\n| Captains and subalterns | 45 |\n| Quartermasters | 55 |\n\nunless an extension is granted by the Governor on the recommendation of the General Officer Commanding the Troops. Such extensions will not be granted for more than two years at a time, nor beyond a further period of five years.\n\n## 7.-(1) The appointment and promotion of all non-commissioned officers of units\n\nAppoint-ment and promotion of non-commissioned officers.\n\nare vested in the Commandant.\n\n(2) Recommendations for the appointment and promotion of all non-commissioned officers of units will be submitted by the commanding officers of such units to the Commandant.\n\n(3) Promotion will be subject to the passing of such an examination as may be prescribed or approved by the General Officer Commanding the Troops.\n\n## 8. Training\n\nThe training to be carried out will be as prescribed in the **First Appendix**.\n\n## 9.-(1) Subject to paragraph (3) of this regulation, an officer\n\nAllowances, etc., in respect of courses.\n\nwhose attendance for a course of training or instruction, in the United Kingdom, with some unit or at a school of instruction, has been approved by the General Officer Commanding the Troops, will be allowed twenty shillings for each day of such attendance, together with necessary travelling expenses, in the United Kingdom, to commence the course and to return thereafter.\n\n(2) In like circumstances, a warrant officer or non-commissioned officer will be allowed ten shillings a day, together with necessary travelling expenses as mentioned in the foregoing paragraph.\n\n(3) The allowances mentioned in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this regulation will normally be limited to fifteen days' attendance at a course; no allowance whatever will be paid in respect of attendance...",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 536635,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "page_number": 25,
        "title": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "content_text": "## 18.-(1) The following books shall be kept by the Adjutant:- \n\n**(a)** Muster roll; \n**(b)** Record of attendance at parades, drills, and machine gun, rifle, and revolver practices; \n**(c)** Cash ledger. \n\n**(2)** The following books shall be kept by the Quartermaster:- \n\nBooks and returns. \n**(a)** Stock-book for stores; \n**(b)** Order book for stores; \n**(c)** Ammunition account. \n\n**(3)** Each officer commanding any unit of the corps will keep for his own unit a record of attendance at parades, drills, and rifle and revolver practices. \n\n**(4)** Periodical returns and reports shall be rendered by the Commandant as prescribed in the **Fourth Appendix**. \n\n## First Appendix. \n\n[Reg. 8] \n## TRAINING. \n\n1. For training purposes the year will be divided into the two following periods :- \n| Period | Dates |\n| --- | --- |\n| Cold weather | 15th October to 15th April |\n| Hot weather | 16th April to 14th October |\n\n2. There will be a camp of exercise during the cold weather. \n\n3. Subject to the provisions of paragraphs 4, 5, and 6, and subject to the regulations in the First Schedule to the Volunteer Ordinance, 1933, relating to members of auxiliary units, every officer and every volunteer shall undergo the following training annually:- \n**(a)** Attend 15 drills or instruction parades, each drill or instruction parade to consist of not less than one hour's actual instruction. \n**(b)** Carry out the range practices prescribed for the unit of the corps to which he belongs. \n**(c)** Perform such training preliminary to range practice as may be ordered by the Commandant, provided that this shall not exceed 3 hours in total duration. \n**(d)** Attend camp for four days. At least two of these days must be consecutive and include a night in camp. For attendance in camp to count as a day, an officer or volunteer must report himself in camp before 8 a.m. and not leave the camp before 5 p.m. In special cases approved by the Commandant, two days in camp may be replaced by drills at the rate of 3 drills for each day. \n**(e)** Attend the annual inspection parade. \n\n4. Volunteers who have been declared efficient in three years, which need not be consecutive, shall undergo only the following modified training : \n**(a)** Attend 10 drills or instruction parades, each drill or parade to consist of not less than one hour's actual instruction. \n**(b)** Fire the classification practices of the musketry course. \n**(c)** Perform such training preliminary to range practice as may be ordered by the Commandant, provided that this shall not exceed 3 hours in total duration.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 536646,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "page_number": 36,
        "title": "CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933",
        "content_text": "## Table of Correspondence,—Continued.\n\n### FIRST SCHEDULE\n\n| Regulation in First Schedule to Ordinance No. 2 of 1920 | Regulation in New Schedule | Remarks |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| 8 (9) | 4 | See G.N. 297/26. This has been omitted having regard to sections 2 (b), 4 and 6 of the Ordinance. |\n| 3 (13) | 4 | New matter dealing with retirement ages. |\n| 5 (1)-(8) | 5 (1)-(8) |  |\n| 5 (9) | 5 (9) |  |\n| 8 | 7 | See G.N. 124/28. It is considered that it should be within the power of the General Officer Commanding the Troops to extend the limit of 15 days where a long course e.g. a Machine Gun Course, is attended, para. (3) makes provision for such extension. |\n| 6 | 8 |  |\n| 7 | 9 | See G.N. 108/28 and G.N. 664/30. Para. (3) has been omitted as being no longer required. |\n| 9 | 10 |  |\n| 10 | 11 |  |\n| 19 | 12 |  |\n| 11 | 13 |  |\n| 14 | 14 |  |\n| 15 | 15 | See G.N. 691/31. |\n| 16 | 14 & 15 |  |\n| 17 | 16 | 'Cash ledger' has been substituted for \"Accounts of receipts and expenditure\", and the books to be kept by the Adjutant and Quartermaster respectively have been grouped. |\n| 18 (1)-(2) | 17 (1) |  |\n| 18 (8) | 17 (2) | Slightly altered. All Unit Commanders are required to keep records. |\n| 18 (4) | 17 (8) |  |\n| First Appendix |  | See G.N. 749/27. Paragraph 7 made more specific. |\n\nPage 40",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-542-5 Volunteer Ordinance- 1933 26-5-1933 - 9-11-1933.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 549885,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "page_number": 11,
        "title": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "content_text": "Of the Battery is in a large measure the result of the assistance \ngiven by the Officers and N.C.O's of the 20th Battery, R.A. \n\nIn January 1935, owing to the transfer of Captain L.F. \nNicholson to the Flying Arm, the Command of the Battery was taken \nover by Captain T. Addis Martin, who formerly commanded some years \nago.\n\nAs regards recruiting, it is gratifying to see that \nrecruits have been forthcoming and, but for several resignations \ndue chiefly to transfers to other Ports, an increase in numbers \nwould have resulted; as it is, numbers still remain around thirty. \n\nThe present personnel of the unit display considerable \nkeenness, and although the present armament was taken over as \nrecently as January 1934, as many as four N.C.O's have attended \n14-day courses at Yaverland, Isle of Wight. \n\nCORPS ENGINEERS. \n\nOfficer Commanding: Major M. Johnson, M.M. \n\nD. L. Training has been carried out on one night a month \nthroughout the year, and all men have qualified on the light and \nthe engine. \n\nWeek-end training was held at Belcher's Fort (the Company's \nWar-Station) in November and March: the Company manned the lights \nduring the Combined Operations. \n\nA combined week-end Camp with the Battery was held in March \nat Pak Sha Wan, when day and night D. L. Training and maintenance \nwere carried out. \n\nEvery member was efficient.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 549894,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "page_number": 20,
        "title": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "content_text": "14.\n\n20\n\nmost successful method. The attendances have been extremely good.\n\nAnti-Gas training has been added to the already full curriculum of Infantry Training.\n\nAt the G.O.C.'s Inspection there were 6 officers and 116 other ranks on parade and the appearance and bearing of the men was excellent.\n\nThe Company took part in the Combined Operations, supplying 5 Officers and 100 other ranks, a most gratifying turn out in view of weather conditions. The drawing of stores was efficiently carried out and the defence duties during the night successfully prevented a landing on the area covered by the Company.\n\nDuring the year a further addition was made to the Commissioned Ranks, L/Corporal H.A. de B. Botelho being promoted to Second Lieutenant, having attended the Junior Wing Course throughout the summer. Second Lieutenant F.P. Sequeira was promoted to Lieutenant and Lieutenant J.S. Rodrigues to Captain.\n\nCaptain Rodrigues was in Command of the Company during the absence on leave of Captain S. Jarvis and carried out his duties in a very able manner, handing the Company over on Captain Jarvis' return in better condition than when he left it.\n\nMEDICAL SECTION.\n\nOfficer Commanding\n\nMajor J.C. Macgown, M.D., Ch.B. (Edin).\n\nThe Section has attended lectures on the organization of the Regular R.A.M.C.\n\nInstruction has been given in 1st Aid and stretcher bearing.\n\nThe Section has been responsible for the health of the Troops in Camp and for the Camp sanitation and hygiene.\n\nOrderlies and Medical Officers have been supplied to Units training away from Headquarters. Twenty Candidates for the Air Arm were examined by the Medical officers.\n\nThe efficiency of the Unit has been fully maintained and several new members have recently been enlisted.\n\n6\n\nPage 20\n\nPage 21",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 549898,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "page_number": 24,
        "title": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "content_text": "pilots: \n\n24\n\n18.\n\nOn January 1st 1935 there were under training the following\n\nL. F. Nicholson\n\nN. A. E. Mackay\n\nW. E. Foer\n\nG. R. M. Ricketts\n\nH. Burson\n\nD. R. Ryde\n\nJ. F. Wright\n\nthis leaves three vacancies which are now filled.\n\nThe total hours flown up to December 1934, was 421 hours 20 minutes.\n\nGround training suffered somewhat during 1934 due to the following reasons:-\n\n(1) There was not in existence a regular Air Arm Unit, i.e. all pilots remained with their own particular unit, and naturally attended their particular units training etc.\n\nAn Air Unit is being formed in order to release Air Arm personnel from their regular units, thus allowing the pilots full time for concentration on Air and Ground training.\n\n(2) Extensive ground training will be commenced immediately the full complement of Volunteers have been selected, this training will conform as early as practicable to that laid down for the Annual Training of Officers of the Royal Air Force Reserve.\n\nRAILWAY OPERATING DETACHMENT CADRE.\n\nOfficer Commanding\n\nMajor R.D. Walker, M.C.\n\nThis Cadre has been divided into two Sections:\n\n1. Operating Section.\n\n2. Construction Section.\n\nThe Operating Section consists of trained railwaymen who are fully conversant with their duties in times of emergency. Recruitment started in January and the Section was at full strength in February.\n\nThe Section is sub-divided into two branches - Traffic and Locomotive co-ordinated by Headquarters control. Each of these branches is commanded by an Officer.\n\nThe Construction Section is at present at 55.3 full strength.\n\n20\n\nThe duties of.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 549899,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "page_number": 25,
        "title": "CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935",
        "content_text": "The duties of this Section are of a military engineering \nnature, as they are responsible for the construction of gun and other \nemplacements for guns on the Railway and other services, for major railway repairs, and for all demolition and other \nobstructive works situated on the Railway.\n\nA comprehensive scheme of obstructive work is in the course \nof preparation and when completed it will form the basis of training \nfor this Section.\n\n## ARMY SERVICE CORPS CADRE\n\nOfficer Commanding: Major C.M. Manners, O.B.E.\n\n### Strength\n\n  \n    8 Officers\n    86 Other ranks\n    94 Total\n  \n\nMonthly lectures have been held under the direction of O.C., \nR.A.S.C., Hong Kong Area and mobilization duties are in process of \nbeing allotted.\n\nThe Cadre took part in a Field Day in Camp last December at \nwhich the handling of transport, map reading, etc. were up to a good \nstandard.\n\nIt is proposed to issue uniform to the Cadre in 1936. \n\nWe await the Scheme from Headquarters, China Command, when \nthis unit will be more definitely developed and organized.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-555-4 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- annual report 1934-5 6-8-1935 - 6-8-1935.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551195,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 13,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## \n\nThroughout the Training Season the co-operation of the \n20th Battery, R.A. has been of the utmost value and the present \nefficiency of the Battery is in a large measure the result of the \nassistance given by the Officers, Warrant Officers and N.C.Os of \nthis Battery.\n\n**CORPS ENGINEERS**\n\n**Officer Commanding**  \nMajor M. A. Johnson, M.M.\n\n### Strength\nNumbers have remained at approximately 2 Officers and 30 Other ranks but I believe recent action should tend toward an increase. A large percentage of men are from the Navy and Army, who are time-expired and engaged in the Government Sanitary Department. They are excellent material, are able by reason of their avocation to get away for training and are already imbued with that sense of discipline so difficult to inculcate under purely voluntary conditions. I believe if the unit was embodied, it would rapidly reach a high state of efficiency both in discipline and the technical work it would be called on to carry out.\n\n### Training\nA start was made on A/A Searchlights but difficulty was experienced in getting to various places where equipment had been installed. For this training, team work is essential and the presence of all members of a detachment at a series of progressive trainings is difficult to ensure. I do not believe we can carry out this training unless there is a set close to Headquarters, which is unlikely owing to lack of space, unsuitability, and other factors. However, the main essentials of A/A Searchlights are similar to Defence Lights inasmuch as they involve an internal combustion engine, generator, and arcs, and I believe that we could achieve efficiency in this work in the event of Mobilization when we should have the unit for sustained and continuous training.\n\n### Camps\nTwo week-end trainings at Stonecutters and Pak Sha Wan respectively have been carried out, and the Lights at Belcher's manned during the Combined Operations.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551196,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 14,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## \n\n14 \n\nThe installation of a A/A Searchlight at or near Volunteer Headquarters would be of great benefit in training the unit.\n\n**CORPS SIGNALS**\n\nOfficer Commanding - Lieutenant J.H. Bottomley.\n\nThis Section has continued to expand, as during the year under review Sikhs have been enrolled. The strength now consists of 1 Officer, 6 European Other Ranks, 21 Mohamedan Other Ranks and 21 Sikh Other Ranks.\n\nTraining. No training has been carried out during the year with the \"C\" Wireless Trench Set. Parades have been devoted to Squad Drill, Flag Drill, Morse Instructions, Lamp Reading, Signal Office Procedure and Instruction on the 10 Line Cordless Exchange. This Instruction was also carried on during the annual Camps which were well attended. Apart from a few practices on the Miniature Range, no Musketry practices have been fired during the year.\n\nEquipment. Our present equipment is considered to be inadequate for training purposes, but additional flags and canvas telephones have been ordered. No Mobilization equipment is required.\n\nCombined Operations. One Officer and 36 Other Ranks took part in the Combined Operations. The untrained personnel were thus given opportunities to learn the duties which they may be required to carry out in the event of mobilization. Instruction will continue to be carried out in accordance with the duties which have been defined.\n\n**MACHINE GUN TROOP**\n\nOfficer Commanding – Captain A.H. Patts, **...**.\n\nThe usual training programme was carried through. Troop drill, Riding School Instruction and Pack Saddle Drill have been regularly carried out and all ranks have been instructed in the use of the Vickers Gun.\n\nThe strength of the unit has been maintained with difficulty owing to many transfers and the regrettable lack of keen riding people in the Colony makes it difficult to recruit.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551198,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 16,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## 9 \n\n16 \n\nI regret to report that both cars have given considerable mechanical trouble during the year, and it has been necessary to purchase new magnetos for each car, a new battery and a new carburettor for No.3 Car. The primary cause of the mechanical trouble of the cars is the fact that they are left in the open and exposed to all weathers. Canvas bonnet covers are now being made and it is hoped that they will prove beneficial. I would again urge that covered accommodation be provided for the cars as soon as sufficient funds are available.\n\nTraining. Attendance at parades and at Camp has been satisfactory, including a 100% \"turn-out\" at the Combined Operations. Training of all men as both gunners and drivers is being continued. Instruction has been given in: Driving, Mechanical Maintenance of the Cars, Towing and Salvage of Broken-down vehicles, Vickers Gunnery, Revolver firing, Rifle practices, Topography, Map reading, Crowd Drill and Gas Drill.\n\nDuring the Annual Camp firing practices were carried out with the Vickers Guns mounted in the cars, both at the halt and on the move.\n\nRecruiting for this unit was not encouraged during the year owing to the improbability of obtaining further Armoured Cars in the near future. I consider a strength of 24 sufficient until further cars are available.\n\n## MOTOR MACHINE GUN SECTION\n\n**Officer Commanding**  \nCaptain H. G. Williams (on leave)  \nLieutenant J. R. Vay  \n\n| Vickers Gun | C |\n|-------------|---|\n| Training has been regularly carried out and all ranks with two exceptions fired their annual Course and obtained the necessary points for qualification as 1st Class Gunners. |  |",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551199,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 17,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## 17\n\n10. Cycles. The three new solos which arrived during the period under review have proved invaluable for reconnaissance work, etc. by Section Commanders during training and especially in connection with the recent Combined Operations. Five members of the Section own solo machines which they use solely for volunteering purposes.\n\nCombinations. Four new Combinations were added to the strength during the year, thus bringing our total number up to twelve; two of these, however, are nine years old and are too prone to breakdowns to be relied upon with any degree of certainty. These 562 & 563, together with Nos. 576 & 577, have outlived their usefulness and should be replaced at the earliest opportunity.\n\nRiding. Classes were held during the summer, and all ranks are now able to take over either a solo or combination at a moment's notice.\n\nEscorts. The Section has provided escorts on numerous occasions to His Excellency the Governor during the period under review.\n\nG.O.C's Inspection & Combined Operations. The Section turned out at full strength for these two functions, and in the latter, we carried out our role as ordered by Sector Commanders.\n\n## No.1 (M.G.) COMPANY\n\n**Officer Commanding**: Captain H. Owen-Hughes.\n\n### Strength\nThe nominal strength of the Company as at 31st March 1936 was 5 Officers and 39 Other Ranks, plus Unit Reserve of 5. The available strength at that date was 5 and 30.\n\n### Attendance\nAttendance on parade has been satisfactory throughout the year. At the beginning of the autumn training season, parades consisted of recapitulation of Elementary Gun Drill, I.A., etc., followed by lectures on Gas and Respirator drill, which, in turn, were followed by E.G.D. and I.A. in Box Respirators. This series of parades was both interesting and instructive.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551201,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 19,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## Beach Defence\n\nThe Company turned out for Combined Operations with every available man on parade and were responsible for finding 24 guns, in which task they were assisted by M.G. Troop and Regulars. It was perhaps unfortunate that more of the Company's positions were not tested during the Operations.\n\n## Personnel\n\nDuring the first part of the year, Captain H. Owen-Hughes, Lieut. V.C. Branson, M.C., C.S.M. Terry were away on leave. The Company was commanded by Capt. E.G. Stewart who carried out his duties with his usual capability. Sergeant A. Urquhart acted as C.S.M. in which capacity he very fully justified the confidence placed in him. He was commissioned in the summer and placed in command of No.2 (M.G.) Company and took with him several keen and efficient Volunteers to form the nucleus of this new unit. 2nd Lieut. R.M. Wood and 2nd Lieut. L.B. Holmes received commissions during the summer and show promise of being efficient Platoon Commanders.\n\n## Discipline\n\nThroughout the year this has been good: and though several members of the Company are still young Volunteers, generally speaking, they show an adequate appreciation of their duties.\n\n## Courses\n\nLieut. V.C. Branson, M.C. and C.S.M. C.E. Terry took courses at Home in Gas and Stokes Mortar and received excellent reports.\n\n## No. 2 (Scottish) COMPANY\n\n**Officer Commanding** **Captain H. R. Forsyth**\n\nDuring the summer season, 1935, general training was relaxed, but a class for N.C.Os was established and M.G. Instruction carried on until September, 1935.\n\nFrom September 1935, regular parades were resumed and a course of individual training in Machine Guns followed until January, 1936.\n\nAll ranks, except those specifically exempted, attended the annual Camp and participated in the Field Training there.\n\nIn February 1936 collective training in M.G. work was attempted, but difficulty was experienced owing to an influx of new personnel and preparation for Combined Night Operations.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551203,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 21,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## \nTraining for the season under review has necessarily been largely restricted to Recruits' Classes but opportunities were made to train up sufficient men to act as Nos.1 on all the Guns allotted to this Unit in the Defence Scheme. This has been achieved as there are now 22 men with the 1st Class M.G. Badge in the Company.\n\nThe standard of Musketry has not yet reached a satisfactory level (only 2 men qualified as marksmen) but opportunities for training and practice were scarce. Rifle training has had to be subordinated to M.G. training, during the early part of the Season in preparation for Camp and the Field Day, and during the latter part of the Season in preparation for the Combined Operations.\n\nThe attendance at Parades has consistently been excellent and a keen spirit pervades the Company.\n\n## M.G. Bn. Signal Section\n**Officer Commanding** - Second Lieutenant A. N. Braude.\n\n### TRAINING\nDuring the early part of the training season, the Section concentrated on instruction necessary for classification as battalion signallers. The tests which were conducted by Lieut. Holmes of the Royal Corps Signals were extremely satisfactory with 100% of candidates being successfully classified. Attendance at parades has been satisfactory and keenness maintained throughout the season.\n\nThe Section carried out several tactical schemes on the Island and on one particular Sunday a full parade turned out.\n\n### CAMP\nExtensive training was carried out at the Annual Camp and the various manoeuvres proved invaluable experience in field work, apart from the fact that the Section were called upon to cover far more area than a battalion signals unit would normally be called upon to do, all branches were exercised, including mounted signallers.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 551204,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 22,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## Changed Training\n\nIn order to prepare for the duties the Section was being called upon to play in the Defence Scheme, the Section was split up into four sub-sections.\n\nSub-Section (A) (Visual) Office and Switchboard work.\nSub-Section B (Line) Cable laying and Maintenance of lines.\nSub-Section C (Wireless) Operating of Field W/T Sets.\nSub-Section D Despatch Riders' Section.\n\nDuring the Combined Operations, the Section took over the duties of Mainland Command Signals and, considering the fact that it was the first opportunity of testing the revised organization, communications run smoothly.\n\nThe Section was fortunate in having donated to them, by a public-minded individual, two new B.S.A. Motor Cycles. These machines form the nucleus of a Despatch Rider Sub-section. It remains to be seen whether this sub-section will be comprised of Chinese or Europeans. In the meantime, a limited and selected number are being recruited.\n\nThe numbers of the Section are again maintained for the second year, which is considered encouraging, and it is hoped to attract further suitable recruits during the coming year.\n\nThe Section Sergeant, R.S. Meadows, who is at present home on leave, has undergone a course of instruction and has duly passed the required examination.\n\n## CORPS INFANTRY (Portuguese Company)\n\n**Officer Commanding** - Major S. Jarvis, M.C.\n\nThe Company strength is now 7 Officers and 200 other ranks as compared with 6 Officers and 126 other ranks at the date of the last report. The large increase is due to recruiting in connection with the Jubilee of the late King George V and also with the formation of \"B\" Company.\n\n\"B\" Company, the anti-Aircraft Light Automatic Unit, was formed by the transfer of 27 N.C.O.s and men from \"A\" Company and filled up by recruiting with a view to providing 3 men per post together with the necessary personnel.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 551205,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 23,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## \n\nLieut. J.V. V. dos Remedios was promoted Captain and appointed to command this unit. Lieut. Lawrence rejoined from Reserve of Officers. Captain Rodrigues was appointed to the command of \"A\" Company and Captain Jarvis promoted to Major, commanding the Corps Infantry composed of \"A\" & \"B\" Companies. Private C. D'Almada has been training under R.S.M. Parkinson and will shortly take his examination for a commission. When commissioned it is proposed to place him in command of No.11 Platoon.\n\nThe Platoons of \"A\" Company were brought up to the full strength required under the Defence Scheme.\n\nAt the Corps Rifle Meeting the first three positions in Corps Championship and the Officer's Prize and Tile Competition were won by the Corps Infantry.\n\nDuring the year the weather conditions prevailing on the occasions for shooting at Stonecutters were not generally conducive to good shooting until the latter part, as is evidenced by the fact that 9 marksman's badges were gained whilst 41 L.G. badges were gained under improved weather conditions.\n\nThe Interport Cup was competed for and won by the Portuguese Company, Shanghai Volunteer Corps.\n\nA successful All-day Company Shoot was organized at Stonecutters and the many trophies were competed for.\n\nThe Corps Infantry tied for 1st place with the Mobile M.Gs. for the Athletic Cup and 1st with the Static M.Gs. for the Aquatic Cup. The team supplied by the Corps Infantry to represent the Corps in the Garrison Billiard Tournament won the Cup again.\n\nDuring the summer special classes were held and intensive training of N.C.Os and prospective N.C.Os was undertaken and during the autumn examinations were commenced showing admirable results in most cases.\n\nAttendances at parades have been extremely good. 35 N.C.Os and men have not missed a parade out of a total of 25 parades.\n\nAt Camp and on the G.O.C's Inspection and Combined Operations, after taking into consideration genuine cases of exemption.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 551206,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 24,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## MEDICAL SECTION\n\n**Officer Commanding**  \n- Major J.J. Macgown, M.B., Ch.B. (Edin).\n\nDuring the year under review, a systematic course of lectures has been delivered. We are indebted to Major Kennedy of the R.A.M.C. for helping in this, with a series of lectures entitled \"The Organization of the Regular R.A.M.C.\" An additional subject was added this year: \"Gas Defensive Measures and the Treatment of Gas Casualties in Warfare.\" Books on this subject were ordered and are being distributed to everyone in the Section.\n\nMedical Officers and Orderlies have been in attendance at every Camp to look after Camp hygiene and the health of the Troops. Some very important and useful work was done before the Autumn Camps by Sergeant Debb, who made a malarial survey of the country for one mile round the Camp. Mosquito breeding grounds were abolished by drainage and paraffin, and as a result, the incidence of mosquitoes in the Camp was less than it has ever been before.\n\nMedical Officers attended all the battery shoots. The Section took part in operations during the last Camp at Fanling, formed a Regimental Aid Post, and obtained practice in the evacuation of the wounded.\n\n17. Exemption on account of work, sickness leave, etc., attendance was practically 100%. Valuable work was carried out in Camp, and the experience of the Inspection and Operations has been a valuable and interesting one for all members of the unit. As yet, it has not been possible to arrange for A.A. Shooting for \"B\" Company, but facilities will be available this year, and every effort will be made to take advantage of them.\n\n24",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 551207,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 25,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## RESERVE COMPANY\n\nThe Reserve Company has been re-organized into the following categories.\n\n**(a) UNIT RESERVE SECTION**\n\nMembers are attached to their former unit for all purposes and wear the uniform of their parent unit. The Section is administered by the Officer Commanding the parent unit.\n\n**(b) RESERVE COMPANY**\n\n**(1) SECTION \"A\"**\n\n* Officer Commanding: Lieut. D... Strellott.\n\nCommanded and administered by Officer Commanding Reserve Company. This Section is composed of Volunteers who desire to remain in the Corps and carry out the prescribed programme of training but who have not enrolled in (a) above.\n\n**(2) SECTION \"B\"**\n\nAdministered by the Adjutant, H.K.V.D.C. Composed of ex-volunteers over the age of 40 who are not enrolled in (a) or (b)(1) above and residents who have previous service training. This Section is not called upon for training in peace. The following are the mobilization duties open to Section \"B\".\n\n| Duty | Description |\n| --- | --- |\n| i. Corps Headquarters | ...administration, (Recruiting, Drafting, Promotion, Clothing, Equipment etc.) |\n| ii. Coast Watching | Observers at selected points on the coast-line of the Island & Mainland. Watchers will be allotted to areas with which they are especially familiar. |\n| iii. Pay Department, V.D.C. | For Pay duties. |\n| iv. Intelligence Department | Applicants should have an intimate knowledge of the Island and New Territories and Service Maps. |\n| v. Transport Driver |  |\n| vi. Clerical Staff |  |\n| vii. Garrison Guard | For Secret & Confidential work. |",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
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    },
    {
        "id": 551221,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "page_number": 39,
        "title": "CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936",
        "content_text": "## Enclosure No.2\n\n**SUBJECT:- REPORTS HONG KONG VOLUNTEER DEFENCE CORPS, 1936**\n\n39\n\n**CONFIDENTIAL**\n\nC.R.C.C. No.`C/13657` (G)\n\nFrom: The General Officer Commanding,  \nThe British Troops in CHINA.\n\nTo:-  \nThe Under-Secretary of State  \nThe War Office, LONDON, S.W.1.\n\nSir,\n\n**HEADQUARTERS, CHINA COMMAND, HONG KONG.**  \n11th June, 1936.\n\nI have the honour to forward the Annual Report on the Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps for the year 1935/36. I have had the privilege of witnessing the activities of the Corps for the past five months only of the period under review. But in that relatively short space of time I have watched the work of all units of the Corps in the Combined Operations Exercise in March: and I have attended day and night practice seaward by the Volunteer Battery and Engineers.\n\n2. From personal observations, therefore, I am able to confirm the opinion held by my predecessor that the Corps is correctly organized so that its component parts fit into the defence of the Fortress as a whole: that the role of each sub-unit is of great importance to the safety of the Colony: and that the efficiency of each sub-unit is of a reasonably high standard.\n\n3. It will be noted from the Report that the nett peace strength of the Corps has increased by 174 during the last twelve months. This increase is made up as follows:",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-557-7 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps and Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- annual report 1935-6 22-6-1936 - 20-11-1936.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 558492,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-567-8 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- attachment to home units for training 21-2-1938 - 23-12-1938",
        "page_number": 26,
        "title": "CO129-567-8 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- attachment to home units for training 21-2-1938 - 23-12-1938",
        "content_text": "P/21565/8 M.S.2.(T.A.)\n\nSir,\n\nCOPY.\n\n23rd June, 1938.\n\n26\n\nWith reference to your letter of the 9th June, 1938, relative to the attachment to a Territorial unit for training, I am directed to inform you that you should apply direct to the Officer Commanding the unit you wish to be attached to, who will make, if possible, all the necessary arrangements for your attachment during the period in question.\n\nI am to add however, that such attachment would be purely voluntary and pay and allowances would not be admissible except in an existing authorised vacancy.\n\nI am,\n\nSir,\n\nYour obedient Servant,\n\nMajor S. Jarvis, M.C., E.D.,\n\n39, Carpenter Road,\n\nEdgbaston,\n\nBirmingham.\n\n(sd.) C.W.G. Ince, Major.\n\nfor, Lieutenant-General,\n\nMilitary Secretary.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-567-8 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- attachment to home units for training 21-2-1938 - 23-12-1938.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 563606,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-575-10 Military contribution 3-1-1939 - 13-12-1939",
        "page_number": 37,
        "title": "CO129-575-10 Military contribution 3-1-1939 - 13-12-1939",
        "content_text": "# 16342\n\n**SECRET(2)**\n\n## Government House, Hong Kong.\n## 4th July, 1939.\n\nSir,\n\nI have the honour to inform you that consideration was given in connection with the estimates for 1939 to making provision for the purchase of two armoured cars in replacement of two such cars now possessed by the Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps. It was, however, ultimately decided to defer this expenditure for one year.\n\n2. It was Major-General A.W. Bartholomew, then General Officer Commanding the British Troops in China, who supported the application for new armoured cars on the grounds that the age and unreliability of the existing cars made them unsuitable for the part they are required to play in the defence of the Colony, and that a small armoured car unit was necessary to that defence against attack from without, as well as for internal security. Major-General A.E. Grasett has recently pressed for reconsideration of the subject on similar grounds, with a view to these vehicles being provided at once and I feel that I should accede to his request.\n\n3. The cost is estimated at $12,000 each, on the assumption that Bedford Chassis will be purchased from the United Kingdom at a cost of $4,500 each, and that the armoured bodies will be constructed in the Colony.\n\nTHE RIGHT HONOURABLE  \nMALCOLM MACDONALD, M.P.,  \n&c.1  \n&c.1",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-575-10 Military contribution 3-1-1939 - 13-12-1939.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 565302,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-577-6 Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- training establishment 28-2-1939 - 28-2-1939",
        "page_number": 16,
        "title": "CO129-577-6 Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- training establishment 28-2-1939 - 28-2-1939",
        "content_text": "# F.M.S. CORNFLOWER TELEPHONE 31850\n## TABDY \n## TOWN OFFICE TELEPHONE 33487 \n## FRATITER \n\n**HONG KONG NAVAL VOLUNTEER FORCE**\n\nAppendix to letter of 21st December, 1938 from Commanding Officer, Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force to Commodore, Hong Kong.\n\n**Imperial Defence - Relation of Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force thereto.**\n\nRoyal Naval Volunteer Reserve status has not yet been granted to Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force. By adoption of that status H.K.N.V.F. would become a part of the scheme of Imperial Defence and would supply trained personnel firstly for local and secondly for Imperial Defence.\n\n2. H.K.N.V.F. is a unit formed and maintained by Hong Kong Government without financial assistance from the Imperial Government.\n\n3. When the offer was made by the Admiralty to loan H.M.S. Cornflower to Hong Kong Government it was estimated, in the scheme put forward, that the annual expense of upkeep of the ship would be $12,000 per annum. When emoluments to care and maintenance personnel are included the total sum actually expended on the ship by Government over five years is $120,000 or approximately 50% of the money voted to maintain H.K.N.V.F.\n\n## Volunteer Drill-ship.\n\n4. The condition of the hull of H.M.S. Cornflower renders necessary a decision as to whether approximately $50,000 should be expended in making the ship seaworthy even as a hulk, to reduce her, in addition, to hulk status or to abandon Ship-Headquarters in favour of a shore establishment.\n\n## Upkeep.\n\n5. The only major structural alteration to the ship since she was loaned by the Admiralty was in the construction of a Decontamination Centre in 1938.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-577-6 Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force- training establishment 28-2-1939 - 28-2-1939.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 566591,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-579-12 Sino-Japanese War- bombing of railway line within leased territories (Shamchun Incident) 21-2-1939 - 17-3-1939",
        "page_number": 37,
        "title": "CO129-579-12 Sino-Japanese War- bombing of railway line within leased territories (Shamchun Incident) 21-2-1939 - 17-3-1939",
        "content_text": "Enclosure No.1.\n\n37\n\nCONFIDENTIAL.\n\nA meeting was held in the Council Chamber on 2nd March, 1939, at 3 p.m. to discuss the claim for compensation for losses sustained in the Lo Wu incident of 21st February, 1939.\n\n2.\n\nPresent: The Honourable the Colonial Secretary (Chairman)\n\nMajor General Tanaka and his A.D.C.\n\nThe Honourable the Commissioner of Police.\n\nColonel Neville, G.S.O. I, China Command.\n\nThe Manager of the Railway.\n\nCaptain Boxer, G.S.O. III, China Command.\n\nThe Consul for Japan, Hong Kong.\n\nThe Principal Assistant Colonial Secretary.\n\nThe Colonial Secretary welcomed the Japanese representatives.\n\n3.\n\nColonel Neville stated the correct facts, as derived from competent accounts of military eye-witnesses, for the information of Major-General Tanaka and to correct versions of the facts which had come from Japanese sources. Colonel Neville especially emphasized that the bombing of the Chinese Maritime Customs Station could not be done without violation of British Territory.\n\n4.\n\nMajor-General Tanaka produced a sketch map which he said has been drawn up by the attacking unit to explain their operations. He explained that the officer commanding the attacking aeroplanes had received special instructions not to violate British Territory, that their maps were not as good as ours, and that the attackers confused the rivers at the boundary.\n\nThe General admitted, however, when pressed by Colonel Neville, that instructions to bomb the Chinese Maritime Customs Station had been given and",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-579-12 Sino-Japanese War- bombing of railway line within leased territories (Shamchun Incident) 21-2-1939 - 17-3-1939.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 572350,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-588-15 Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force and Hong Kong Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve- annual report 16-7-1941 - 25-11-1941",
        "page_number": 8,
        "title": "CO129-588-15 Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force and Hong Kong Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve- annual report 16-7-1941 - 25-11-1941",
        "content_text": "## HONG KONG ROYAL NAVAL VOLUNTEER RESERVE\n\n### 4. Mobilizations (Contd.)\n\nRecruitment of Officer personnel from out-ports to meet increasing commitments has proceeded throughout the year.\n\n### 5. Evacuation\n\nOn 1st July, on forty-eight hours' notice, one hundred and forty-two women and children, families of mobilized and unmobilized members, were evacuated under a scheme modelled on the naval scheme and prepared in advance by officers of this Force. By agreement with the Commodore, these families were treated in all respects as civilian evacuees. It is considered that the scheme operated smoothly and with a minimum of inconvenience.\n\nIt has been reported to me by husbands whose families were evacuated under the H.K.R.V.V.R. scheme and by many others that by the steadiness of two members of that party, Mrs. J. Petrie and Mrs. R. J. Vernall, and by their constant efforts in looking after the welfare of the party, excellent service was rendered at a time of considerable emotional upset to all evacuees. Had these ladies not been the wives of the two Senior Officers of this Force, I should have made this the subject of special mention earlier. This report would, however, be incomplete if I did not record the fact.\n\n### 6. H.M.S. Cornflower\n\nOn 17th August 1940, the sloop, H.M.S. \"Cornflower\", was handed back to the Admiralty, and the River Steamer \"TAI HING\", loaned by Sir Robert Ho Tung for the duration of the war, replaced her as temporary Headquarters and Depot Ship. On 7th September, by authority of the Admiralty's signal to Commodore timed 2116/7/8/40, the \"Tai Hing\" was named \"H.M.S. Cornflower\". That signal approved the Commodore Hong Kong's proposal \"to retain the name 'H.M.S. Cornflower' in perpetuity for use of the H.K.R.N.V.R. Headquarters whether afloat or onshore\". This change \"can only be in the nature of a temporary expedient and the need for a shore Headquarters is as pressing as ever\".\n\n### 7. Expense of Operation\n\nAs reported last year, the Admiralty is bearing the charter fees, expense of operation, and upkeep of Auxiliary Patrol Vessels and wages of taken over civilian crew with these vessels, and upkeep of the three Shore Stations all under my command. Government bears the pay and cost of uniforms, etc. for volunteer personnel and the maintenance of H.M.S. Cornflower.\n\n| Category | Amount |\n| --- | --- |\n| Pay Roll April 1940 to March 1941 inclusive | $788,537.86 |\n| V. bed plus S/V's. | $84,896.00 |\n| Expended (approx.) Emoluments | $55,085.00 |\n| Saving (Mainly in Personal Emoluments) | $29,811.00 |\n| Total Expended | $55,085.00 |\n| **Total** | **$843,622.86** |\n\nCommander, H.K.R.N.V.R. Commanding Officer.  \n1941\n\nPage 9\n\n## HONG KONG ROYAL NAVAL VOLUNTEER RESERVE  \nH.M.S. CORNFLOWER,  \nHONG KONG.  \n30th August, 1940.  \n**CONFIDENTIAL**  \nA.S.R. 71/40.  \n(Auxiliary Services Routine)\n\nIn A.S.F. 9 (1939), I gave a review of events within the Force over the first week after mobilization. Today, four days before the Empire has the anniversary of its entry into the war, we have the anniversary of our first mobilization. I would like to review events over that year in the confidence of A.S.R's.\n\nThe first few weeks after mobilization are remembered as weeks of work at highest pressure in the heat of summer. The adjustment to some semblance of order and routine was hard work, but it was accomplished with remarkable harmony and good-temper, and I owe a great deal to the excellent spirit that prevailed then and prevails now.\n\nTo the sea-going members, the first few weeks were occupied by officers in getting to know ships. It was not a case of getting to know their own ship because there was not any; they were given a different ship almost every day until they knew them all. To the Seamen Ratings, the first few weeks seemed as sublimely uneventful as life in general seems to the mass of Chinese, but to the Communication Branch Ratings, the acquiring of \"sea legs\" was a painful process.\n\nThe Minewatching Branch began watchkeeping and has gradually developed to a full degree of maintenance and control of stations, which was never envisaged in time of peace.\n\nThere was a shortage of mobilized officer personnel due to the main effect of the war not having reached Hong Kong. A balance between local sea defence requirements and the needs of employers to retain their staff had to be found. The Admiralty needed the men, but the Home Government stated that trade must be maintained - result, the formation of a local Reference Board to assess the claims of both parties. Other avenues for recruitment of officer personnel were therefore explored, notably Shanghai, from which port many officers have now arrived.\n\nSome more of the hurdles we have cleared:\n\n(a) Rapid expansion, greater number and variety of duties, more and larger ships.\n\n(b) Refitting of new vessels for service - difficulties due to heterogeneous collection of craft and initiation into the wondrous ways of the Naval Dockyard.\n\n(c) Due to the number of new ships refitting, necessity to send half-trained officers to sea, thereby interrupting their training and, at the same time, throwing more work and responsibility on trained officers.\n\n(d) Officers transferred to other naval services and replaced.\n\n(e) Disorganisation due to failure of some, in fact most, of the old A.P.V's to stand up to unaccustomed heavy duty.\n\n(f) No cooking facilities in ships. Improvised living quarters.\n\n(g) During the last six months, the worst weather ever experienced in Hong Kong, in ships providing inadequate shelter.\n\n(h) In the flotilla, there are single right, single left, twin inturning, and twin outturning screws - surely a world record for one flotilla.\n\n(i) The transfer of headquarters from H.M.S. \"Cornflower\" to the new H.M.S. \"Cornflower\" and the months of preparatory work required.\n\n(j) The hazard of typhoons (fortunately none really severe) and the attendant disruption of patrols and re-adjustment to a new roster.\n\n(k) Variety of guns to fight and minesweeping gear to use.\n\n(l) The embarkation for evacuation of our wives and families carried out by an organisation prepared by ourselves.\n\n(m) Many of us long overdue for Home Leave (that is a hurdle which we cannot expect to clear until after the war) and duties so arduous that local leave has been almost impossible.\n\n(n) The loss of our Officer Instructor to the Royal Navy last October and the organisation and training of new mobilized members undertaken by volunteer officers, a duty which had never been envisaged.\n\n(o) The formation, expansion, and training in the evenings of the newly-formed European Seamen Gunners Branch, in addition to training of other unmobilized members.\n\n(p) To H.K.R.M.V.R. was given the duty of carrying out Admiralty Equipment and Running Trials of M/S gear of R.C.S. \"VITI\".\n\n(q) The setting up of a base at Middle Island, where we established our own Signal Station and W/T communications and operated as a detached unit during Combined Operations.\n\n(r) The organisation by ourselves of attacks on the Island during Combined Operations - in one instance with fourteen ships in two divisions.\n\nThere was one hurdle we did not clear, that was the maintaining of the Examination Service by H.K.R.N.V.R. Officers. The need for four more patrols came when the minefields were laid, and we had insufficient officers to undertake both duties. Five of our master mariner officers were, however, given commissions in the R.N.R., and the balance required for the Examination Service was recruited by the Naval Authorities. Later, as numbers gradually built up, we gave in lieu seven officers to other naval services, as mentioned in (d).\n\nWhen we look back to 1939, we realize that we have travelled a long, long way.\n\nA word about the future:\n\nWe are impatient to be \"in it\" at home. Our unmobilized members want to be mobilized. All over the Empire, unmobilized men want to be mobilized; mobilized men want active engagement with the enemy. This World War is today being actively fought by a privileged few - a handful of H.M. Ships, R.A.F. planes, and A.A. Batteries. It is also being fought less spectacularly but no less decisively by others, of whom we are part.\n\nThose who served in the last war know how seldom the average man is in contact with the enemy, even in the famous Dover patrol of the last war. He knows these weeks, months, years of waiting and the self-discipline entailed.\n\nPage 10  \nPage 11",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-588-15 Hong Kong Naval Volunteer Force and Hong Kong Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve- annual report 16-7-1941 - 25-11-1941.txt",
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        "id": 575959,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 112,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "# General Crerar adds:-\n\n6\n\nWith information at my disposal concerning units of Force \"C\" and knowing professional ability and character of Commanding Officer, Brigadier Lawson, I would say that Force \"C\" was certainly fit to meet an attacking force, even in superior numbers, and to give a fine account of itself by December 8. General Crerar says:-\n\nAt\n\nInformation at my disposal during latter part of September, 1941, indicated that outbreak of hostilities with Japan was not imminent and that time would, in all probability, be available to carry out intensive, adequate and possible extensive training of Canadian forces at Hong Kong after their arrival.\n\nGeneral Stuart agrees with this.\n\nThe evidence relating to the training, equipment and personnel of the two battalions is fully examined in the Appendix. For reasons which there appear, I am satisfied that in respect of weapon training, as in respect of other matters, this selection cannot be justly impeached as affected by any error in judgment.\n\nThird, of the steps taken to bring the units up to strength, including first reinforcements. The selection of the units made, it became necessary to provide \"first reinforcements\" for both battalions and to bring the Winnipeg Grenadiers up to strength. Both battalions were warned for service on October 9th and the ship which had been provided by the British Government to take the expedition to Hong Kong was to sail before the end of the month. In an interval of not more than two weeks it was necessary to obtain the required additions, as well as to attend to the multifarious tasks involved in equipping the expedition. It must be remembered that all these preparations had to go forward, not only with urgency, but also with extreme secrecy. It was decided to obtain the men needed for the Royal Rifles in Military District No. 2, with Headquarters in Toronto, and those for the Winnipeg Grenadiers in Military District No. 10, with Headquarters in Winnipeg.\n\nAll men who were added to the two battalions prior to the departure for Hong Kong volunteered for service overseas with the battalion to which they went. They were, in the case of each battalion, accepted as satisfactory by the Officer Commanding, or by officers designated by him. The steps taken by the battalion and district officers were taken under the direction of and were approved by National Defence Headquarters at Ottawa and, in particular, of and by Colonel P. Hennessy, the Director of Organization in the Adjutant-General's Department, upon whom devolved the immediate direction and responsibility for the task of bringing the units up to strength and providing first reinforcements, and who became the Senior Administrative Officer of the Expeditionary Force.\n\nThere were added to the Royal Rifles 154 men from Military District No. 2, of whom 52 came from the Midland Regiment and 102 came from Advanced Training Centres at Camp Borden. There were added to the Winnipeg Grenadiers, 282 men and 12 officers from Military District No. 10. In the Appendix I have examined in detail the training and qualifications of each group of the men added.\n\nA period of sixteen weeks has been laid down as the standard period to be devoted to the training of an infantry recruit before sending him overseas. In individual cases and by reason of the exigencies of shipping, this standard has on occasion not been enforced. Of the men added to the strength of the Hong Kong expedition, all but about six per cent had undergone more than sixteen weeks military training after enlistment in the active army. As I have already said, all these men volunteered for service with the expedition and all were accepted as suitable by officers of the battalion to which they were going.\n\n7\n\nA number of officers gave evidence of the great value of the personal selection of men for a unit by competent officers of that unit. For example, Lieutenant-General McNaughton said (and with him General Crerar and General Stuart agreed):\n\nIf I were the Commanding Officer and had had the chance to select the men and know them individually—see that they were all right—I would not have worried very much whether they had completed the basic training or not, because character is the thing we lay most stress on, and, if they were people who were suitable in my judgment to incorporate in the battalion, I would have been perfectly happy to have had them. I would not have worried from the point of view of military efficiency one iota, because, if they are the right type of men, even on the voyage over I would have completed their individual training.\n\nI accept this evidence of Generals McNaughton, Crerar and Stuart and of other officers to the like effect as of great weight in deciding upon the propriety of the steps taken to bring the force up to strength and to provide it with first reinforcements.\n\nA considerable amount of evidence was directed to show the effect of adding to two well-trained battalions groups of lesser trained men numbering about six per cent of the strength of the two units. That evidence conclusively establishes that an efficient battalion is, and must be, capable of absorbing recruits, who have not fully completed their training, up to a much greater proportion of its strength than six per cent, without at all detracting from the efficiency of the battalion as a whole.\n\nFrom the whole of the evidence (which is fully discussed in the Appendix) I have reached the conclusion that there was no unfairness either to the battalions, or to the expedition, as a whole, from the addition of this small percentage of men who had not fully completed the standard period of training at the time they were accepted by the battalion officers. Nor have I any doubt that these men who volunteered for the expedition in order to enter upon active service would be quickly absorbed into their new units, or that in accepting them there was not any unfairness to the men themselves; and I am satisfied that the acceptance of these men had no detrimental effect upon the efficiency of either battalion. I have found no dereliction of duty or error in judgment in connection with the additions made to the strength of the two units.\n\nIn the course of my examination of the evidence I found that the inclusion of this small percentage of men was not the result of any shortage of fully trained men in Canada. It arose from the necessity of obtaining the men with great speed and secrecy and the impracticability in the time available of selecting them from a larger number of training centres.\n\nFour, of the general organization and dispatch of the force, apart from the subject of mechanical transport. The facts are stated in the Appendix and they require no comment here.\n\nFive, of mechanical transport. With regard to the mechanical transport of the force, consisting of 212 vehicles, the troopship, the Awatea, provided by the British authorities had not sufficient cargo space to take them. The War Office was most anxious that the troops should go on this ship, as another opportunity to sail was not likely to occur for two months. Shortly before the expedition sailed, space for the vehicles unexpectedly became available in an American ship and that ship sailed with the vehicles on November 4, but did not reach its destination before the outbreak of hostilities, as she was diverted by the United States naval authorities. Had she been allowed to follow her normal route, she would have reached Hong Kong before the Japanese attack opened. This miscarriage was not in any way due to any fault, or mistake, of any officer of the Canadian forces, or of any official of the Canadian Government.\n\n114",
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    {
        "id": 575965,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 118,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "125\n\n18\n\nand possibly increased, force up to the moment the expedition sailed on October 27. A telegram from the War Office in England to National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, dated October 30, 1941, which, by the consent of the War Office, I am enabled to publish, reads as follows:-\n\nWe are very grateful to you for despatching your contingent to Hong Kong at such short notice. We fully realize the difficulties of mobilization and of distance which have had to be overcome. The moral effect of their arrival in November will be much greater than it would have been two months later.\n\nThe rapidity with which events proceeded in the closing months of the year 1941 must not be overlooked in assessing the responsibilities of statesmen and soldiers in respect of measures taken in the light of information available in September and October, and with reference to the probabilities as suggested by such information. Statesmen and soldiers can properly be held accountable for a reasonably capable practical judgment as to such probabilities, but not on the assumption that they must have had anterior knowledge of subsequent events.\n\nThus, after examining all the evidence bearing on the question of the authorization of the expedition, I can find no dereliction of duty or error in judgment either on the part of the Government of Canada or of its military advisers, in the decision to accept the proposal of the United Kingdom to send a Canadian force to Hong Kong, and the despatch of the force pursuant to that decision.\n\nSECTION III—SELECTION OF THE BATTALIONS FOR THE EXPEDITION\n\nThe Government of Canada having decided to comply with the request of the United Kingdom, it became necessary to select the units that should comprise the expeditionary force, which was officially known as Force \"C\". This selection was made in accordance with the recommendation of the Chief of the General Staff, General Crerar, on September 30, 1941, which received the approval of the Minister of National Defence on October 9. General Crerar recommended the designation of the Royal Rifles of Canada, from Quebec, and the Winnipeg Grenadiers, from Manitoba. General Crerar accepted the sole responsibility for advising the Government in respect of this recommendation, although his conclusion was reached after full discussion with officers of the General Staff, the General-Officer-Commanding the 4th Division, and with other officers. He says that the reasons upon which he acted were those given by him in the document in which he presented his recommendation to the Minister. I reproduce this document textually.\n\nIt should be stated that there were at the time in Canada 26 battalions of infantry. These battalions had been mobilized at different times and had reached various stages of training. Nine of them constituted the 4th Division of the Canadian Active Army which was destined for service in Great Britain—had been \"earmarked\" for service in the Canadian Corps, to use the expression of General McNaughton.\n\nGeneral Crerar's recommendation is as follows:-\n\nThe Minister\n\nSept. 30, 1941.\n\n1. Pursuant to the recent decision of the Government to despatch two rifle battalions to Hong Kong, I have given consideration to the selection of the units for this duty.\n\n2. As these units are going to a distant and important garrison where they will be detached from other Canadian forces, a primary consideration is that they should be efficient, well-trained battalions, capable of upholding the credit of the Dominion in any circumstances.\n\n3. Further, in order to adhere to the principle of territorial representation, I consider it most desirable that one unit should come from Western Canada and the other from Eastern Canada.\n\n4. It would be possible to choose two battalions from the 4th Division which would meet the above requirements. But I do not recommend this course.\n\nThe 4th Division has been constituted as a formation for some considerable time. On purely military grounds it would be unsound to disrupt it, if this can be avoided.\n\n5. Further, I feel that anything which might be construed in the minds of the public, or in the Army itself, as the beginning of a break-up I may of this division would be certain to have an adverse reaction. I add that these are also the views of the G.O.C. 4th Division.\n\n6. Therefore, I consider the selection of units for Hong Kong should be made from those not forming part of the order-of-battle of the 4th Division.\n\n7. This leaves for consideration the Infantry (Rifle) Battalions now responsible for coast defence and those forming the three Brigades of the 6th Division, certain of which latter are only now mobilizing, are not trained and must, therefore, be ruled out.\n\n19\n\n54750-31\n\n126",
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    {
        "id": 575968,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 121,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "131\n\n24\n\nA general rule has been in force since August 18, 1940, relating to the sending of reinforcements to units overseas. This rule requires the District Officer Commanding to \"ensure that reinforcements from C.A.S.F. Training Centres are not sent overseas unless they have completed the full period training laid down, without obtaining prior authority from N.D.H.Q.” In practice the exigencies of shipping and other considerations have at times made it necessary to authorize the despatch of reinforcements overseas before the prescribed training has been completed. The particular application of the above rule to the Hong Kong force will be examined at a later stage in this Appendix. Another matter of general procedure should be mentioned. When a battalion has been moved from its district of origin to perform coast defence duties in Canada, or garrison duties in Newfoundland or the West Indies, it may happen that it has not been posted to one of the Canadian divisions. Such a non-divisional unit has no establishment in any of the training centres from which drafts of replacements can be supplied. In such a case the unit, on leaving its own district, leaves behind at the district depot a recruiting wing. Men are enlisted in the battalion by this recruiting wing and are sent on to the unit from time to time. Certain forms of elementary training may be given at the district depot but this varies with the weapons that may be available in particular districts.\n\nSome evidence was given as to the relative merits of the training received in Training Centres and that received by a trainee with his unit. Training in the Training Centres has some advantages; it can be planned on regular lines, can be more easily supervised and recorded, and can proceed with fewer interruptions from guard, fatigue and other duties. On the other hand, training with an organized unit with competent officers and non-commissioned officers is better calculated to develop in the soldier of any rank certain essential qualities. The individual training of the soldier in a battalion may proceed concurrently with the collective training of sections, platoons and companies. All ranks have an opportunity of knowing each other and from this knowledge acquiring mutual confidence against the time of encountering an enemy. Several of the officers who gave evidence spoke in emphatic terms of the supreme value of developing in all ranks the qualities of reciprocal loyalty and confidence and of a spirit of solidarity without which no battalion can reach the highest degree of efficiency as a fighting unit. Where a man trains only with his battalion, his training may be interrupted and delayed by the duties assigned to the battalion, but, where these duties involve the protection of important outposts—such as Newfoundland and the West Indies against possible enemy attacks, the experience in performing such duties and the consciousness of possible exposure to enemy activities provide in themselves valuable training both for the individual and the unit. Referring to the experience of the Royal Rifles in Newfoundland, Lt. Col. Lamb says:-\n\nIt was an unusual experience for training men, because we had quite a number of alarms and scares down there, and the men began to realize that anything might happen; they showed a keen interest in their work and it was easy to train them and a pleasure. They did up to 20-mile route marches, bivouacking two or three days away, when they did their own cooking and catering; and by the time we left Newfoundland at the end of August, 1941, I do not think I have seen a fitter bunch of men, taking them all round.\n\nWith these preliminary general remarks as to the military training in Canada, we may now consider the two battalions in question.\n\n25\n\nThe Royal Rifles of Canada\n\nThe Royal Rifles of Canada were mobilized July 8, 1940, at Quebec. Before that the regiment was a reserve unit in the Non-Permanent Active Militia. After mobilization the unit trained in the Quebec district and at Sussex, N.B. November and December, 1940, the battalion went to Newfoundland as part of the Island's garrison. It returned to Canada in two parties on August 18 and 28, 1941, and late in September, 1941, took up coast defence duties at St. John, N.B., where it remained until it was warned for duty with the expedition to Hong Kong on October 9, 1941.\n\nThe battalion was commanded throughout its active service by Lieutenant-Colonel W. J. Home, M.C., an experienced officer who served with distinction in the war of 1914-18 and afterwards in the Permanent Force, and had extensive experience in the training of troops in peace-time, as well as in war-time. The second-in-command, Major Price, is also an able, as well as an experienced officer. All but six of the officers who went to Hong Kong had been with the battalion since mobilization. General Crerar's testimony to his confidence in Colonel Home and Major Price, as well as in the other officers of the battalion, is quoted verbatim hereafter.\n\nIt was the settled practice in the battalion not to accept recruits unless they had been inspected and accepted by the officer commanding, or some officer delegated for that purpose by him.\n\nOfficers who had either served with the Royal Rifles, or under whose observation the battalion had come in the course of military duty, gave evidence as to its efficiency and training. The effect of their evidence can perhaps best be summarized by quoting from a report written by the Acting Officer Commanding at Quebec (Lieutenant-Colonel Berteau) on September 15, 1941, after the unit had returned from Newfoundland and before it was assigned to the Hong Kong force. The report strongly recommended that the Royal Rifles should be included in an overseas formation and stated that \"the unit is one of the most efficient ever mobilized in this district, with a splendid type of men, excellent N.C.O's, and well-trained and most efficient officers\".\n\nThe training of the battalion began shortly after mobilization. Probably because of the military experience of many of the officers and N.C.O's, the unit was quickly organized and made rapid progress through the earlier stages of training. Before leaving for Newfoundland its basic individual training had been completed. The training in Newfoundland is described in the written training reports on file at Ottawa and in the evidence of the Officer Commanding in Newfoundland in 1941 (Brigadier Earnshaw), but principally by Lt.-Col. Lamb, who commanded a company during the entire stay of the battalion in Newfoundland, with the exception of five weeks when he was taking a course at Kingston.\n\nAs was very clearly explained by Colonel Lamb, Canadian troops in Newfoundland are not engaged in mere guard duties; they are serving in a potential theatre of war and their training is more intensive and varied than that usually received in a training camp in Canada. On arrival in Newfoundland two companies of the battalion were assigned to duties at the Airport and two companies performed duties at the harbour and airplane base. At the Airport one company was engaged in manning the outposts; the other in training; the two companies taking these duties from week to week alternately. At the harbour and airplane base the duties consisted in protecting the harbour and examining all incoming ships. At both these stations individual training of the men continued in alternate weeks and the training done, usually by small groups, gave to both officers and men experience valuable in modern warfare. Several witnesses mentioned the changing conditions of war; in this war often small groups of men commanded by a junior officer operate in an isolated position where the enemy is likely to appear from any direction. In this type of warfare\n\n34750--4\n\n132",
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    {
        "id": 575969,
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 122,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "26\n\nit was suggested in evidence that the experience gained in manning outposts in Newfoundland against possible enemy attack, by day or by night, would be peculiarly valuable.\n\nIt may be observed that the supreme importance of having well-trained platoon commanders was fully recognized in the last war. On July 29, 1918 little more than a week before he launched his final offensive, Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig entered in his diary: \"This is a platoon commander's war\".\n\nin the spring of 1941 the battalion moved to St. John's, Newfoundland, and was there concentrated as a unit. To it, seven defence localities were assigned and defence schemes often involving the whole battalion were devised for each locality. Several of these defence schemes required in their execution co-operation with units of the Newfoundland militia. The training reports give evidence of the variety of training manoeuvres, which included tactical exercises by two or more companies, night exercises, field exercises, training in fieldcraft and section leading, stand-to alarms, etc., etc.\n\nThe evidence establishes that the training received by the Royal Rifles in Newfoundland was vigorously carried out and resulted in the creation of a unit at least as well-trained as other units in Canada in September, 1941. Individual training of the men was far advanced and their duties in Newfoundland improved their health and physical stamina. Their collective training up to and including the battalion level was also well advanced. I quote the evidence of Brigadier Earnshaw, the General-Officer-Commanding in Newfoundland, but first I give this observation with regard to the Royal Rifles by General Crerar:-\n\nAs regards state of training of Royal Rifles, apart from observations of Commanders under whom this unit served (General Elkins, Brigadier Earnshaw), I had advantage of personal visits and general inspection of this unit at Sussex Camp, New Brunswick, in autumn of 1940, and at St. John's (Newfoundland) in early summer of 1941. These personal inspections and contacts gave me confidence in qualities and abilities of O.C. (Lieutenant-Colonel Home), the Second-in-Command (Major Price) and generally in officers and men who comprised it.\n\nBrigadier Earnshaw says:-\n\nThe Battalion was moved from that portion of Newfoundland to Saint John's, Newfoundland, I think from memory in April, and from then until the time it left the battalion was concentrated together as a unit and had with it its full war-time scale of mechanical equipment, and during that period it had very few indeed what I class garrison duties, and was entirely free to carry out its operational role, which was in fact to be prepared to meet an enemy landing or a move at St. John's from any direction. The training and preparation to fulfil that operational role was what it spent most of its time on almost entirely training during that period.\n\nQ. You said that the battalion had its full mechanical equipment. What about other equipment, weapons?-A. Well, it had its full scale to the extent to which they were available.\n\nQ. Can we put it this way, that it was fully equipped as a battalion in all respects? A. Yes, except, of course, that it did not have certain weapons, but neither did any other battalion.\n\nI proceed to discuss the weapon training the Royal Rifles had received at the time of their designation as part of Force \"C\", that is to say, October 9th, 1941.\n\nThe Royal Rifles had at all times their full share of rifles and bayonets, an adequate supply of light machine guns (both Bren and Lewis) and pistols, and their full scale of transport vehicles. They had one 2″ mortar for instructional purposes; but with this exception, they had no 2\" mortars, or anti-tank rifles. In this respect they were in the same case as Canadian battalions generally, although,\n\n27\n\nas we shall see, the Winnipeg Grenadiers had available for instruction in training while in Jamaica a number of anti-tank rifles. The unit had from April, 1941 its full complement of 3\" mortars, according to the scale which governed at the time, that is to say, two for the battalion, which were in the hands of the mortar platoon of the headquarters company, the commander and sergeant of which had taken a special course at the Long Branch School. They had, therefore, opportunities for training in this arm not possessed by Canadian battalions generally. The 3\" mortar was included in all the defence schemes and counter-attack schemes in the 7 defence districts in the vicinity of St. John's. The full issue of 2\" mortars was received by the unit when being equipped for the Hong Kong expedition. Four Thompson sub-machine guns (the Tommy-gun, so-called) reached the battalion at St. John's, one month before its departure from Newfoundland. The officers and non-commissioned officers were fully instructed in the mechanism and use of it. One gun was given to each company. Ammunition both for the 3\" mortars, as well as for the tommy-gun, was lacking. There were no live grenades in Newfoundland for practice purposes and training in grenade throwing was done with dummy grenades.\n\nIt is convenient here to quote textually some passages of the evidence of Lt.-Col. Sparling, of the Directorate of Military Training, an officer competent to speak upon this subject and whose evidence I accept:-\n\nQ. And you went on to explain that there were certain weapons they did not have, but you said also, I understood, and I wondered if I correctly understood you there, that other units had not these weapons?-A. No, my lord. For example, none of them had 2\" mortars, and neither did these two units.\n\n1\n\nQ. I merely want to understand you. None of them had 2\" mortars and none of them had the Boys anti-tank guns?-A. There were very few of those, my lord. For instance, the Winnipeg Grenadiers at that time had 4; the Royal Rifles had none. There was one issued as a pool weapon in Newfoundland for passing around amongst the units in Newfoundland.\n\nQ. I wonder if it would not be more convenient if you took the units individually instead of dealing with them both together. Or perhaps you were dealing with them in that way?........ The situation is not identical? A. It is not quite identical in that the Royal Rifles had been able to carry out their annual classification during 1941, whereas the Winnipeg Grenadiers up to the time they arrived back had not been able actually to carry out their firing practice; but in so far as such things as tests of elementary training are concerned they had full opportunity for that because the test for elementary training does not include range practice. And there is one minor point there, namely, that the Winnipeg Grenadiers did not have dummy grenades, whereas the Royal Rifles and other units had dummy grenades.\n\nQ. Does that properly describe the situation as regard these two battalions? A. Yes. In my opinion those two were up to the standard of the other units in the country.\n\nQ. As well trained as any other unit?-A. Yes.\n\nThese passages apply to the Winnipeg Grenadiers as well as to the Royal Rifles. They show that the Royal Rifles were privileged in comparison with other Canadian battalions in respect of 3\" mortars and, as already mentioned, had opportunities of training in that weapon denied to Canadian battalions generally, while the Winnipeg Grenadiers were privileged in like manner in respect of the Boys anti-tank rifle.\n\nThere are 867 rifles and 50 Bren guns prescribed for issue to an infantry battalion, the ammunition for the Bren gun being the same as that for the rifle. This would in fact and practice be the normal equipment of such a battalion in Canada. The Royal Rifles were fully equipped with Bren guns, rifles and\n\n54750-4\n\n134",
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    {
        "id": 575971,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 124,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "137\n\n30\n\nshows that the battalion had been issued approximately 18,000 rounds of 1910 ammunition. The poor quality of the ammunition accounted, in the opinion of the commanding officer, for the fact that more did not qualify. The report goes on to state that three machine gun schools had been conducted, with good results, and, amongst other things, good progress had been made in map reading, field work, and bayonet fighting. The Inspector-General's report concludes with these words: \"This unit is well organized, well disciplined, and has made a good advance in training. A very good unit\".\n\nThe report on training made by the commanding officer and referred to in the Inspector-General's report states: \"All personnel have been taught to use the rifle and carried out T.O.E.T. (Tests of Elementary Training). All of effective personnel have fired Part I (a) and (b) Miniature Range instruction with the .22 rifle. No actual classification with the .303 has been done yet.\" With regard to the light machine gun, the commanding officer reports: \"The A.A. (anti-aircraft) platoon have been thoroughly trained with the Lewis gun. All ranks have fired the 25-yard classification. An additional 8 men per company are now being trained in the use of the Lewis gun as an A.A. weapon\". With regard to the Bren gun, it is stated that: \"These guns not being available, training in accordance with S.A.T. Vol. I, Pamphlet 4, could not be carried out, but lectures in mechanism have been given with the aid of charts\". With regard to bayonet training, the report states: \"All effective ranks in H.Q. and Machine Gun Companies have been thoroughly trained in the use of the bayonet\". As to the anti-tank rifle: \"All personnel required to be trained in the use of the Anti-Tank Rifle have been trained up to and including T.O.E.T. As there is no ammunition for this weapon, no actual firing of the gun has been possible\". The commanding officer states, among other things, that: \"The interest and enthusiasm of the troops is high. The degree of efficiency re machine gun training is very satisfactory.\" Before the battalion left for the West Indies, 380 of the men had fired Parts I and II of the rifle classification at the St. Charles Ranges at Winnipeg.\n\nIn May, 1940, the unit was changed from a machine gun to a rifle battalion and was warned for duty in the West Indies. This involved a reduction in strength to that of a garrison battalion. On leaving for the West Indies, the battalion was fully equipped with rifles and bayonets; it had 16 Lewis guns, 4 Bren guns, and 4 anti-tank rifles. On arrival in the West Indies, it received 5 additional Bren guns. In the spring of 1941, two 3-inch mortars were received, and one Thompson sub-machine gun was obtained on loan from the Imperial forces. The battalion remained on the reduced establishment until the spring of 1941. It was then advanced to the higher infantry establishment, and some—but not all—of the additional men required by the higher establishment were sent to the West Indies from Canada.\n\nThe West Indies island where the battalion was stationed has been an Imperial garrison post for more than one hundred years. It is a mountainous island, having two military stations—one at ... and the other at .... The Winnipeg Grenadiers made up practically the entire garrison of the island and were charged with the duty of providing internal security, aid to the civil authorities, and the protection of the island against attack from outside. One company was stationed at all times at ... and had very little in the way of garrison duties to perform. It was therefore able to spend practically all its time in training. Because of the mountainous terrain, the training was mainly individual, section, and platoon training, and the time was spent in practising mountain warfare. The troops also carried out platoon and company tactical schemes.\n\nAt ..., the battalion had heavy garrison duties to perform. These comprised the staffing and guarding of an internment camp, the guarding of detention barracks, and the providing of ship guards on incoming and outgoing vessels in the harbour. The personnel not occupied in guard or regimental duties were given individual training in bayonet fighting, the mechanism and employment of the Bren and Lewis light machine guns, and the anti-tank rifle, stalking, the use of cover, fighting patrols, and the building of road blocks. In addition to its defence duties, the garrison at ... was required to have one company available at all times on 30 minutes' notice, under the defence scheme of the island as laid down by the War Office.\n\n31\n\nAccording to the evidence of Brigadier Kay, the battalion, while in the West Indies, acquired a thorough knowledge of the use of rifles, bayonets, Bren guns, Lewis guns, and the anti-tank rifle, and this applies to all ranks. All were trained in bayonet fighting and practised constantly. During Brigadier Kay's tenure, ammunition was not available for firing practice, but only for use against an enemy, but 70 additional men had fired Parts I and II classification while in the West Indies, before the battalion returned to Winnipeg. On the battalion's return to Winnipeg in October, 1941, and after it had been warned for duty at Hong Kong, the St. Charles Ranges were set aside for the unit for one week, and some 600 fired a course with rifles at various ranges using various types of targets.\n\nAccording to a report made by Colonel Sutcliffe on October 6, 1941, all elementary training in musketry had been completed, and refresher courses taken. With regard to the Bren and Lewis guns, the mechanism, drill, and tactical handling of the guns had been thoroughly covered by the rifle companies and the anti-aircraft platoon, while the remainder of the personnel had been given elementary training. No range practice had been done with these weapons. The mechanism, drill, and a limited amount of \"tactical handling\" of the Thompson sub-machine gun had been taught; only one of these guns, according to Colonel Sutcliffe, being available to the battalion in the West Indies.\n\nColonel Sutcliffe also says that no training was done with either the 2-inch or 3-inch mortar, as 2-inch mortars were not available, and the 3-inch mortars were only received just prior to leaving the West Indies. Colonel Sutcliffe appears to be mistaken with regard to the 3-inch mortars, as two of these weapons were issued to the battalion in February, 1941, and Brigadier Kay says that the battalion had these mortars and that a large percentage of the men were trained in the stripping, assembling, and tactical handling of the mortar, but not in its actual firing.\n\nColonel Sutcliffe also appears to be mistaken in his statement that only one Thompson sub-machine gun was available, as in a report signed by him and dated July 14, 1941, he says: \"Arrangements were made to borrow two Thompson sub-machine guns from Ordnance. These are now on hand, and instruction has commenced.\" In a report by Colonel Sutcliffe a week later, he says: \"Classes on the Thompson sub-machine gun have commenced (in spare time) and are being enthusiastically attended.\"\n\nWith regard to the anti-tank rifle, Colonel Sutcliffe says the mechanism, drill, and tactical handling had been completed, but no range work had been done, and that there had been no training with grenades.\n\nHe also says that most of the rifle company personnel and portions of the headquarters company had been instructed in field-craft and had carried out practical training, and that anti-gas training had been carried out regularly and thoroughly.\n\nWith regard to the seventy-five recruits who had joined the battalion in the West Indies, Colonel Sutcliffe reports that at that time they had received no basic training at all. He also appears to have been mistaken with regard to this, as the records of the men concerned show that they spent five weeks at a Basic Training Centre before going to the West Indies. He says, however, these men in the West Indies had been given a full basic training course, having reached their sixth week before embarkation for Canada, and training was to be continued.\n\n132",
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        "id": 575973,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 126,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "As I have previously stated, the training of a unit or formation is never completed. For instance, neither G.O.C. First Canadian Division, nor myself, would admit that First Canadian Division, which has trained vigorously for two years, and elements of which have partaken in actual operations, is fit to meet the enemy as we would wish it. There is always room for improvement. On the other hand, as a general statement, with information at my disposal concerning units of Force \"C\" and knowing the professional ability and character of Commanding Officer, Brigadier Lawson, I would say that Force \"C\" was certainly fit to meet an attacking force, even in superior numbers, and to give a fine account of itself by December 8, 1941.\n\nA telegram from Colonel Sutcliffe, dated December 22, lends confirmation to General Crerar's judgment. Colonel Sutcliffe, who was at this time evidently in command following the death of Brigadier Lawson and Colonel Hennessy, says: \"Troops have done magnificent work. Spirit excellent.\"\n\nAfter reviewing, in light of the evidence, the considerations which it was the duty of General Crerar to weigh, I arrive at a clear opinion that I could not justify a declaration that he was wrong in his decision to recommend the selection of these two battalions. Another Chief of the General Staff in the same circumstances might perhaps not unreasonably have taken another view. But I think the balance of practical considerations favoured the course actually taken. There is, therefore, no good ground for imputing to General Crerar, in the matter of the selection of the battalions to compose the expeditionary force, any error in judgment, much less any dereliction of duty.\n\nSECTION IV - ADDITIONS TO THE STRENGTH OF THE TWO BATTALIONS\n\nThe higher rifle establishment for a Canadian infantry battalion provides for 34 officers and 773 other ranks - a total of 807 for all ranks. The \"first reinforcements\" for a battalion consist of 6 officers and 150 other ranks - a total of 156 for all ranks. Thus, a battalion with its \"first reinforcements\" comprises 40 officers and 923 other ranks - a total complement of 963.\n\n\"First reinforcements\" for a battalion in the field are usually left at the battalion depot behind the lines and do not immediately become part of the fighting strength of the unit. They are intended to be available to make good the losses that the battalion may suffer from casualties and illness. When a battalion proceeds overseas, particularly to a station as far distant as Hong Kong, it frequently happens that the \"first reinforcements\" accompany the unit. Early in the preparation of the Hong Kong expedition, the question arose whether \"first reinforcements\" should accompany the Royal Rifles and the Winnipeg Grenadiers to Hong Kong. An inquiry was directed, through Canadian Military Headquarters in London, to the War Office, and the advice was received that the Canadian battalions should take with them their \"first reinforcements.\" It was accordingly necessary to add a number of officers and men to both units.\n\nA further inquiry was sent by National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa to the War Office respecting medical categories. The War Office replied that men could be taken down to and including the Canadian medical category C2. In fact, the medical rating of those included in the force did not go below B1 and may not have included any men even in that category. But the statement of acceptable medical categories from the War Office is not without significance as indicating the view of the War Office as to the nature of the task that was being undertaken. This statement points to an expectation at the War Office that the Canadian reinforcements would be employed in garrison duties.\n\nAt the time of selection, the Royal Rifles were slightly over strength. The Winnipeg Grenadiers, who had just returned from the West Indies, were under full strength by more than 100 men. To bring both battalions up to strength, 136 men were required, in addition to 300 for first reinforcements. In obtaining these men, there were two conditioning factors - rapidity and secrecy. Between the time the battalions were warned for service overseas (on October 9) and the time the expedition sailed (on October 27), there was an interval of only eighteen days, less embarkation leave, in which every one of these volunteers must be recruited, medically examined, completely re-outfitted, and transported to Vancouver. The necessity for maintaining the most complete secrecy strictly limited the field of recruiting. Only the officers commanding the two battalions knew that their destination was Hong Kong. To aid in preserving this secrecy, it was necessary to obtain recruits from as few localities as possible.\n\nThe men added to the strength of the two battalions were volunteers for service, knowing only that the units had been selected for active service overseas in a semi-tropical country. The policy of taking only volunteers was deliberately adopted. Although all men in the active army had enlisted for service overseas and the Government, accordingly, had legal power to send them overseas without asking their consent, yet, as has already been explained, when a man enlists in the Canadian army, he enlists in a particular unit, and there is a convention that he is not transferred to another without his consent, in the\n\nPage 142 \n\n35 \n\n142",
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        "id": 575974,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 127,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "absence, at all events, of some over-riding necessity. This convention is so well recognized that disregard of it might possibly be considered as in the nature of a breach of faith.\n\nThe responsibility of securing the necessary replacements, as well as \"first reinforcements,\" belonged to the Adjutant-General's Department. The task was in the hands of Colonel P. Hennessy, the Director of Organization in the Adjutant-General's Department, who afterwards became the senior administrative officer of the Hong Kong expeditionary force. Under his immediate direction, additions to the Royal Rifles were obtained from Military District No. 2, with headquarters in Toronto, and additions to the Winnipeg Grenadiers were obtained from Military District No. 10, with headquarters in Winnipeg. Colonel Hennessy was an officer of great experience and he was, of course, most anxious to obtain the best men possible for the expedition of which he was to be second-in-command.\n\nThere were added (150 as first reinforcements) to the Royal Rifles 154 men from Military District No. 2, of whom 52 came from the Midland Regiment, 15 from Advanced Training Centre No. 10 at Camp Borden, and 87 from Advanced Training Centre No. 11, also at Camp Borden. To the Winnipeg Grenadiers were added (156 as first reinforcements) 282 men and 12 officers; of these, the 12 officers and 189 men came from Advanced Training Centre No. 15 at Winnipeg, 30 men from the Advanced (Machine Gun) Training Centre at Dundern, Saskatchewan, 40 from the No. 10 District Depot at Winnipeg (including 23 men formerly on the strength of the 18th Reconnaissance Battalion), and 23 men from the Basic Training Centre at Portage la Prairie.\n\nPage 36\n\nAdditions to the Royal Rifles\n\nOn October 16, Colonel Hennessy spoke by long distance telephone to the Commandant at Camp Borden (Brigadier-General McCuaig) and asked him to obtain, if possible, 150 volunteers from A10 and A11 Infantry (Advanced) Training Centres for transfer to the Royal Rifles of Canada, which was proceeding to service outside Canada. General McCuaig instructed the officers commanding the training centres to ascertain what volunteers could be obtained at their several centres. Fifteen men volunteered from A10 and A11. General McCuaig then advised the Officer Commanding Military District No. 2 at Toronto (Major-General C. F. Constantine) that approximately 100 volunteers were available from the centres at Camp Borden. General Constantine then made arrangements to obtain 52 volunteers from the Midland Regiment, which was then stationed at Niagara and was over strength. A few hours later, General Constantine was advised that the desired number of men from the Midland Regiment had volunteered, and he so advised Colonel Hennessy.\n\nIn this way, 154 men—102 from Camp Borden and 52 from the Midland Regiment—were transferred to the Royal Rifles and proceeded with that unit to Hong Kong. These men were sent to the District Depot at Toronto on October 18th and were there medically examined, inoculated, and re-equipped with new uniforms and personal equipment. They were granted leave until October 23rd, when they entrained at Toronto and joined the Royal Rifles while en route to Vancouver. The details of the procedure followed in obtaining these men were discussed with Colonel Hennessy.\n\nColonel Hennessy reported to Major-General Browne, the Adjutant-General, that he was obtaining 52 men from the Midland Regiment and 102 from Camp Borden, and both General Browne and Colonel Hennessy expressed themselves as gratified by their good fortune in obtaining these men from these sources, and took steps to assure that places were made for them in the expeditionary force.\n\nPage 37\n\nOn October 22, two officers and three sergeants from the Royal Rifles, representing Lt.-Col. Home, the officer commanding the regiment, came to Toronto and checked over the documents of each of the 154 men. These documents disclosed the particulars of service of each of the men. On October 23, the men were paraded and all details were finally checked. The two officers from the Royal Rifles expressed themselves as well satisfied with the volunteers provided by Military District No. 2.\n\nThe Midland Regiment was organized in July, 1940, and was recruited in the counties of Northumberland, Durham, Victoria, and Haliburton in Ontario. The several companies of the regiment were stationed in various towns and cities of eastern Ontario until January, 1941, when the regiment moved to barracks in Ottawa, where it remained until April, 1941. It then undertook duties in the defence of coastal and other vital points within Canada.\n\nAll the 52 men from the Midland Regiment who volunteered for the Hong Kong expedition had joined that regiment prior to March, 1941. All these men, therefore, had at least six months' training with their unit before embarking for Hong Kong, while a great many of them had probably a full year's training. Accordingly, some idea of their state of training may be formed by a reference to the training and qualifications of this regiment as a whole. On this topic, I had the evidence of the officer who has commanded this unit since October, 1940, and also the evidence of the officer in charge of training in Military District No. 3 (Colonel Grant), who had the regiment under his observation from October, 1940, until April, 1941. There was also produced an inspection report, dated February 20, 1941, dealing with the Midland Regiment, by an Inspector-General, and the evidence of General Browne of the result of his observation, as Adjutant-General, of the unit covering the period in 1941 when it was stationed at Ottawa.\n\nFrom this evidence, I have reached the conclusion that the Midland Regiment is and was in October, 1941, an efficient, well-trained unit. The Officer Commanding (Lieutenant-Colonel Gamey) impressed me with his own competence and was described by others as an officer who placed exceptional emphasis on training and exacted a high standard from his unit. The other officers were reported as satisfactory and acceptable by the Inspector-General. General Browne stated that he was particularly pleased with the sergeants of the Midland Regiment. Perhaps some general notion of the calibre of the men in the Midland Regiment may be drawn from the fact that when, in October, 1941, a request for approximately 50 volunteers was made, practically every man in the regiment offered his services.\n\nThe men in the Midland Regiment did not pass through a training centre, but obtained all their training with the unit. A regular program of training was, however, followed, and records of this training were available in Military District No. 3 for the period between October, 1940, and April, 1941. The District Officer in charge of Training (Colonel Grant) compared these records of actual training with the lengths of time prescribed for each of the items of training in the syllabi used in the training centres. It is unnecessary to set forth this comparison in detail. The regiment was far ahead of the prescribed syllabi in drill, marching, rifle training, and bayonet training. It had been fully instructed in the mechanism of the light machine gun, to the extent that the men were handling the gun while blindfolded; they were, in April, 1941, well advanced in their firing practice at the ranges, although they had not completed the full period of time set forth in the syllabi. They had spent more than double the time prescribed in their practice with dummy grenades. They had spent a total of 127 periods (of 45 minutes each) in platoon and section training, and a total of 78 periods in company and battalion training. The reports of training and of the observations of officers indicate that the men of the Midland Regiment were hardworking and interested in their training and, moreover, that they \"possessed initiative and self-reliance beyond the average\".\n\nPage 143\n\nPage 144",
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    {
        "id": 575975,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 128,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "It is true that after April, 1941, the Midland Regiment was engaged in defence duties within Canada which interfered with the regular course of their training. At the same time, as I have already indicated, the assumption of coast defence and other duties had peculiar value in developing in the individual soldier the special qualities required for the type of task that they might be expected to perform in Hong Kong.\n\nThe records of the individual training of the 52 volunteers for the Hong Kong expedition indicate that these men were well advanced in their individual training. It is true that the records of their firing tests at the ranges indicate that some were first and second-class shots, while others were third-class shots or had failed. It was stated to me in evidence that these records of practice at a rifle range do not necessarily afford a reliable criterion of the usefulness of a soldier in actual combat. It was also clear that some of these men, while fully trained in the theory and mechanism of the light machine gun, had not actually fired the machine gun at the ranges. This deficiency in their individual training is one which could quickly be rectified and would, under efficient officers, be quickly rectified after their arrival in Hong Kong. Notwithstanding these shortcomings in the matter of range practice and tests, I am satisfied that the Commanding Officer (Colonel Gage) is correct in stating that the 52 volunteers from the Midland Regiment were, as a group, well trained, according to the standard of training prevailing in Canada.\n\nAccordingly, I find that in accepting these 52 men from the Midland Regiment for inclusion in the expedition to Hong Kong there was no dereliction of duty or error in judgment on the part of anyone.\n\nFifteen men were added to the strength of the Royal Rifles from Advanced Training Centre No. 10 at Camp Borden. The procedure adopted to obtain these men has already been described. They were all volunteers; all were medically fit and all had received their full basic training covering the subjects prescribed in the syllabus for basic training. Of the 15 men, ten had completed their full advanced training and several had served with the army for more than a year. The remaining five had completed their basic training and had received three weeks of the advanced training course. The officer in command of the Advanced Training Centre No. 10, speaking from personal observation, said that, although these five men had not received their complete advanced training, \"they were young men, full of enthusiasm to get into a fighting unit and had received training in rifle, light machine gun and gas\". In these circumstances, I cannot believe that there was any error in including in the group from this training centre this small number of enthusiastic volunteers, even though they had not received the full period of training prescribed in the syllabus. I have in mind, of course, the fact that opportunities for further training were anticipated, and did in fact arise, in the period of approximately six weeks between the date of embarkation and the attack on Hong Kong.\n\nEighty-seven men were added to the strength of the Royal Rifles from Advanced Training Centre No. 11 at Camp Borden. The general remarks made in the preceding section apply equally to these men. They were all enthusiastic volunteers. Of this group, 38 had completed their full basic and advanced training. Three had completed their full basic training and seven weeks of advanced training; one had basic training and four weeks of advanced training; forty-three had basic training and three weeks of advanced training; and two had basic training and two and one-half weeks of advanced training. These men were inspected by the officer commanding the training centres who stated they were \"good-looking soldiers\", who appeared to be \"likely recruits\" for the reinforcement of any battalion.\n\nMy conclusion as to these men is the same as for the group discussed in the preceding section. I find that there was no dereliction of duty or error in judgment in including these men in the additions to the strength of the Royal Rifles.\n\nPage 39\n\nAdditions to the Winnipeg Grenadiers\n\nAt the time of their selection for service in Hong Kong, the Winnipeg Grenadiers were in the course of transfer from the West Indies to Canada. October 10th, Colonel Hennessy spoke on the telephone to the District Officer Commanding at Winnipeg (Brigadier Riley) and told him that the battalion would have to be brought up to strength and, for that purpose, volunteers should be sought at the infantry training centre. Brigadier Riley discussed the matter with Lieutenant-Colonel Sutcliffe (the officer commanding the Winnipeg Grenadiers) and Lieutenant-Colonel Graham (the officer commanding the Advanced Training Centre No. 15 at Winnipeg). There was some uncertainty as to the exact number of additional men required, but Colonel Sutcliffe estimated on October 10th that between 150 and 200 additional men would be required.\n\nColonel Sutcliffe saw Colonel Graham on the 10th or 11th of October and asked particularly for signallers and other specialists. From the Advanced Training Centre No. 15, thirty fully trained signallers, all of whom had completed courses at Barriefield signal school, were provided. In addition, the following trained specialists were provided from the Training Centre: three men trained in the use of the 3\" mortar, twelve driver mechanics, three or four men trained in the use of Bren gun carriers, and a number of N.C.O's who had received special courses as instructors and who were willing to revert to the ranks in order to join the expedition. On the first request for volunteers, Colonel Graham obtained 150 men for the expedition, which was described merely as special duty overseas. Subsequently, Colonel Sutcliffe visited the Training Centre and spoke to a parade of the men and 39 additional volunteers were obtained. In this way, 189 men were provided from Advanced Training Centre No. 15.\n\nIn addition, this Training Centre provided 12 officers for the Winnipeg Grenadiers, all of whom were fully trained; they had qualified at an Officers' Training Centre and had assisted in the training at the Advanced Infantry Training Centre for periods, in some cases, of more than a year. Colonel Graham stated that all these officers were known personally to him and all of them had completed their training. In general, this opinion was confirmed by Mr. T. C. Douglas, M.P., who knew five of these officers and saw them shortly before they left for Hong Kong. He stated that they were overjoyed at the prospect of going into more active service and they were satisfied with their training courses as regards the handling of men and general instruction, although they had some uncertainty about their experience in operational manoeuvres. This was a natural diffidence in an officer of limited experience with a unit, but Colonel Graham's evidence satisfies me that these officers were competent and suitable for acceptance as voluntary transfers to the Winnipeg Grenadiers. In addition, two officers were transferred to the unit from the training staff of the Basic Training Centre at Portage la Prairie. As to these, there can be no question of their fitness or competence.\n\nAfter obtaining from the Advanced Training Centre No. 15 the number of new men originally estimated to be necessary by Colonel Sutcliffe, he found the estimate had been too low and that more would be needed. Brigadier Riley obtained permission from Colonel Hennessy to ask for 30 volunteers from the Advanced Machine Gun Training Centre at Dundern, Sask. These volunteers were obtained without difficulty. Still later, at a time about ten days before the expedition sailed, Colonel Sutcliffe found that there would be some loss in the strength of his unit consequent upon the medical re-examination of the men and because of transfers of a number of men to the Air Force. Brigadier Riley, in this situation, felt that further volunteers could not be obtained from the Advanced Training Centre at Winnipeg, or from Dundern, and, with the sanction of Colonel Hennessy, he sought volunteers in the District Depot at Winnipeg and at the Basic Training Centre at Portage la Prairie. Colonel Sutcliffe\n\nPage 146",
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    {
        "id": 575976,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 129,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "40\n\nsaw a number of men from both the District Depot and the Basic Training Centre and from these personally selected the necessary number to complete his establishment. In this way 40 men from the District Depot and 23 men from the Basic Training Centre-all of whom were volunteers-were added to the strength of the Winnipeg Grenadiers.\n\nBefore examining in detail the qualifications and training of the men added, one further general comment should be made. It was decided that the Winnipeg Grenadiers should be brought up to the required strength by volunteers from mid-western Canada, through Military District No. 10. This decision appears reasonable in view of the fact that this regiment had originally been mobilized in this district. The primary responsibility for the additions to the strength rested on the Adjutant-General's Department and its execution was committed to Colonel Hennessy, the Director of Organization. Brigadier Riley (the officer commanding Military District No. 10) took steps to provide the necessary number of volunteers for the consideration and acceptance of Colonel Sutcliffe (the officer commanding the Winnipeg Grenadiers). In all such steps Brigadier Riley conferred with and obtained the approval of Colonel Hennessy, who relied, and properly relied, upon the decision of the local officers as to the acceptance or rejection of available volunteers. In fact, Colonel Hennessy, as Director of Organization, approved all steps taken to obtain additions to the strength of the Winnipeg Grenadiers; the District provided the necessary number of volunteers; and either Colonel Sutcliffe, or his second-in-command, Major Trist, personally interviewed every man who came from the District Depot and the Basic Training Centre. The men from the Advanced Training Centre at Dundern were accepted on the report from that centre that they were all fully trained. The men from Advanced Training Centre No. 15 at Winnipeg were accepted on the recommendation of Colonel Graham, who was in command of that centre and was, therefore, in the best position to know of their qualifications.\n\nA number of senior officers gave evidence as to the great value of the personal selection of men by a competent commanding officer. Lieutenant-General McNaughton said in evidence:-\n\nIf I were the Commanding Officer and had had the chance to select the men and know them individually-see that they were all right-I would not have worried very much whether they had completed the basic training or not, because character is the thing we lay most stress on, and, if they were people who were suitable in my judgment to incorporate in the battalion, I would have been perfectly satisfied to have had them\n\nI would not have worried from the point of view of military efficiency one iota, because, if they are the right type of men, even on the voyage over I would have completed their individual training.\n\nThese opinions were confirmed by both General Crerar and General Stuart· and are, of course, of the greatest weight in considering the fitness of these additions to the strength of the Winnipeg Grenadiers.\n\nWith regard to the 189 men from Advanced Training Centre No. 15, while they had been at the Training Centre for periods ranging from two weeks to over a year, and while 42 of them had been in the active army for less than sixteen weeks, the Commandant of the Training Centre, Colonel Graham, says they had all fired their courses at the ranges with rifles, light machine guns, anti-aircraft rifles and anti-aircraft guns.\n\nWith regard to the 42 men mentioned above, all with one exception (a man who enlisted on August 1, 1941), had had military experience, either with a militia regiment, a unit of the permanent forces, or in a Basic or Advanced Training Centre prior to enlistment in the active army. As illustrations the following may be noted: One man who enlisted on July 16, 1941 had served with the Royal Irish Constabulary and for two years with the Seaforth Highlanders; one who enlisted on July 17, 1941, had had one year with the Dragoons;\n\n41\n\none who enlisted July 24, 1941, had also had one year with the Dragoons; one who enlisted on July 16, 1941 had had six years in the Gloucester Regiment; one who enlisted on July 10, 1941 had had nine years in a militia regiment; one who enlisted on August 28, 1941 had previously been at a Basic Training Centre for nine weeks; one who enlisted August 28, 1941 had had two months previous service at a Basic Training Centre; one who enlisted on the same day had previously had twelve weeks at a Basic and an Advanced Training Centre. Of these 42 men, the latest enlistments were three men who enlisted respectively on September 5 and 11. One of these had previously been with the Forestry Corps as a fitter; one had been with the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps, and one had been in the Forestry Corps and had had ten weeks at a Basic Training Centre.\n\nIn the period immediately prior to October, 1941, the Advanced Training Centre No. 15, from which these men came, had, for training purposes, an adequate supply of rifles, bayonets, light machine guns, anti-tank rifles, Tommy-guns and dummy grenades. This Centre, in common with other Training Centres and units in Canada, was at that time without 2\" and 3\" mortars for training purposes.\n\nThirty men were added to the Winnipeg Grenadiers from the Advanced (Machine Gun) Training Centre at Dundern, Sask. All these men had completed their advanced training and twelve of them were trained specialists. In some respects this group were trained beyond the standard laid down in the syllabi for training centres, as they had received instruction in field engineering and pistol training that was not prescribed in the syllabi.\n\nForty men were transferred to the Winnipeg Grenadiers from No. 10 District Depot at Winnipeg. It will be recalled that these men were obtained after it appeared that further additions would be required than had been originally anticipated at the time the unit was selected for service in Hong Kong. Permission was accordingly obtained from headquarters in Ottawa to seek volunteers at the district depot. The district depot receives all men when they are recruited and also men who are being transferred from one unit to another. It was described as a \"manning pool\" for the district. At the time that volunteers for the Winnipeg Grenadiers were being sought, there were 23 men at the district depot who had been left behind by the 18th Reconnaissance Battalion when that unit left the district. These men had had considerable training with their unit, but had been left behind because they were thought not suitable for the specialized work of a reconnaissance battalion. The time served by the men from the 18th Reconnaissance Battalion was as follows: One had served four weeks; one, five weeks; one, six weeks; three, twelve weeks; four, thirteen weeks; one fourteen weeks; one, fifteen weeks; eight for sixteen weeks; one for eighteen weeks; one for nineteen weeks, and one for twenty weeks. Of the remaining seventeen men from the District Depot, one had already served twenty-four weeks at a Machine Gun Training Centre before being attached to the Depot; in the same way one had served twenty weeks at a Basic Training Centre; one had served five weeks in a Basic Training Centre and prior to that had been in a Reserve Battalion from August 13, 1940 to the date of his enlistment on April 10, 1941; one had had two periods of thirty days and eight weeks at Basic Training Centres; one had had eight weeks in a militia regiment; one had trained with the Grenadiers themselves for one year from September 18, 1939; one had had thirty days at a Basic Training Centre; one had had the same experience, followed by eight weeks in a Divisional Supply unit; one had sixteen weeks with a militia regiment; one had had eight weeks with a Divisional Supply unit; one had had eight weeks at a Basic Training Centre; one had had six months with a militia regiment; one had been in a Reserve Signallers Battalion for thirty-seven weeks; one had formerly been with the battalion for thirty weeks, having returned from the West Indies in April, 1941. Of the remaining three men, one had\n\n148",
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    {
        "id": 575977,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "page_number": 130,
        "title": "CO129-590-25 Accounts of events leading up to surrender and subsequent treatment of prisoners- etc 23-4-1942 - 28-9-1943",
        "content_text": "149\n\n42\n\nenlisted June 20, 1941, and one on June 10, 1941, both having been on the strength of the Depot until attached to the Grenadiers. The third man had a total of twenty-four weeks at the Depot having been in and out of the army for three periods since his original enlistment in November, 1939.\n\nNo detailed information as to the individual training of these 43 men at the Depot itself was available and a conclusion as to their suitability for acceptance into the Winnipeg Grenadiers must be based on the record of their lengths of service in the army, as above mentioned, and on the fact that they were personally inspected and accepted by either Colonel Sutcliffe, or the second-in-command, Major Trist.\n\nThe evidence as to the 23 men who joined the Grenadiers from the Basic Training Centre at Portage la Prairie is as follows: One had been in a Reserve Battalion for one year, being attached to the Training Centre; one enlisted November 24, 1939, and had been a staff clerk receiving some training until his transfer to the Training Centre on October 3, 1941; one had been in a militia regiment for nine months; one had been called out in September, 1940, and was attached to a Militia Training Centre until his enlistment on June 17, 1941, when he went to the Basic Training Centre; two were qualified instructors attached to the Training Centre; one had been a member of the King's Own Scottish Borderers from 1915 to 1919; one had been in a Reserve Battalion from August, 1940, to May, 1941, when he was called out and attached to the Basic Training Centre. The remaining fifteen men without previous military experience served in the Basic Training Centre for periods varying from three to eleven weeks—two served three weeks; three served five weeks; eight served six weeks, and two had served eleven weeks. All these men also were personally accepted by Colonel Sutcliffe, or his second-in-command, after inspection.\n\nIn the preceding paragraphs there has been given a detailed description of the steps taken to bring the two battalions up to full establishment, including \"first reinforcements\". These steps were taken with speed and secrecy after the receipt of advice from England on October 9th giving detailed plans for the expedition. The necessary number of volunteers were obtained and the whole personnel of the two battalions were examined and re-equipped ready to sail from Vancouver on October 27. It is now possible, in light of what has been said, to consider the effect, on the expedition as a whole, of the addition of the comparatively small number of men who had not completed the full period of training.\n\nI was most anxious to discover what was the effect of adding to two such battalions, small groups of lesser trained men constituting not more than five or six per cent of the strength of two units, comprising exclusively men who had volunteered for service and who had been approved by the officers of the battalions as suitable additions. A great many witnesses, with experience in this war and with battle experience in the war of 1914-18, assisted me with their opinions on this question. The opinion of these officers was to the effect that a well-trained battalion will quickly absorb such a small percentage of under-trained men, who, in a few weeks, will become indistinguishable in efficiency from the other men in the battalion. An efficient commanding officer would not keep the under-trained men segregated in a group, but would distribute them among various platoons containing his experienced and well-trained soldiers. It was pointed out by General Browne (an officer of great experience in the last war, in the peace-time army, and in this war) that in a Training Centre there may be 500 or 1,000 men for whom there are some 25 or 30 instructors, whereas when a new man is added to a platoon he has 29 or 30 instructors in the experienced men of the platoon. From opinions of the officers who gave evidence, I have reached the conclusion that there was no unfairness\n\n43\n\neither to the battalions, or to the expedition as a whole, from the addition of the men I have referred to who had not fully completed their prescribed training. I am sure that the addition of this number of volunteers, who were willing to transfer from their own units in order to proceed upon active service, did not detrimentally affect the fighting efficiency of the Royal Rifles and the Winnipeg Grenadiers.\n\nFor similar reasons, I am satisfied that there was no unfairness to these men themselves in adding them to the expedition. I believe that these enthusiastic volunteers would be quickly absorbed into their battalions and would speedily make good any deficiency in their training. The opinion of the witnesses was that before many days had passed these men would have absorbed the spirit of their battalion and would have become useful and competent members thereof and General McNaughton in his evidence says:-\n\nQ. With regard to your answers to questions by my friend Mr. Campbell, he gave to you the figures 43 and 62 of men who had less than sixteen weeks in connection with these two battalions respectively. Could those numbers, in your opinion, be increased without affecting the answer which you gave to his Lordship to any extent?-A. Well, I think I would like to answer it this way, saying that I took the First Canadian Division overseas, well on towards 18,000, and not one of them had had that training; not that I was happy, but-\n\nQ. You are speaking of the First Division as now constituted?-A. Yes. Q. I was thinking of the First Division in the last war?-A. And the same thing was true in the last war, my lord. We had nothing like that training that is indicated here for these oddments that were added.\n\nQ. Then could those numbers be reasonably increased without affecting the efficiency of a battalion which had otherwise been fairly well trained?-A. Oh, to absorb, say, ten to fifteen per cent, is no difficulty.\n\nQ. Then the presence of men who had not had the same degree of training as what I might call the main body of the battalion while you say that their presence creates no difficulty, would you be good enough to answer that from the standpoint of the men who themselves are trained? That is, is there any effect of the presence of somewhat untrained men on the trained men? Does it give the trained men any feeling of insecurity or lack of confidence or anything of that kind by reason of the presence of somewhat lesser trained men in their battalion?-A. Not provided one has a period of a few weeks to assimilate them and make sure they are brought up level with the rest. That is a thing that any combatant unit has got to be trained to do. It is part of our ordinary routine, because when we go into battle we are certain to have casualties, anything up to twenty-five per cent, and a good battalion must be able to take that quota of comparatively untrained people into their organization and in a matter of days rather than weeks incorporate them thoroughly into the unit.\n\nQ. What I am thinking of is this, General McNaughton: you have this force going to Hong Kong, two battalions; assume ten per cent of them had less than sixteen weeks, of varying amounts; it was anticipated we will say they were going there on garrison duty, but we will say that expectation was disappointed and it became a combatant area; then would you be good enough to answer the question?-A. I personally would not have given it one anxiety, subject to the condition that I knew the men, that I did not have a lot of rotters put on my hands, that I had a chance to select them. I would have taken almost raw men of my own selection rather than have had a lot of fellows dumped on me that I did not know anything about.\n\nI have already observed that the selection of these men was the duty of the Adjutant General's Department, and the execution of that duty fell upon Colonel Hennessy, the Director of Organization. Colonel Hennessy fully understood the\n\n150\n\nPage 130\n\nPage 131\n\n151",
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    {
        "id": 576560,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "page_number": 68,
        "title": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "content_text": "OUTLINE REPORT ON LIAISON AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATION 48 HOURS AFTER\n\nARRIVAL HONG KONG.\n\n68\n\n9th September, 1945.\n\nLiaison.\n\nContact has been established with Chief Staff Officer to C in C, Senior Military Officer, Commander Kowloon and Group Captain Barker commanding R.A.F. Airfields Construction Unit. Personnel of the Government of Hong Kong released from internment have been most helpful.\n\nADMINISTRATION.\n\n2.\n\nAccommodation.\n\nOffice accommodation for the General Secretariat and Departments other than the Legal Branch, has been allotted in the Hong Kong Bank building. The Legal Department has suitable accommodation in the Supreme Court.\n\nTemporary living accommodation for officers has been found in the Peninsula Hotel and investigations are proceeding to determine the most suitable living accommodation in Hong Kong with a view to the majority of personnel living on the island, which should prove more convenient. Accommodation is available in the Hong Kong Hotel, but it is thought that Gloucester Buildings may prove more suitable.\n\n3.\n\nTransport.\n\nThere is a marked shortage of transport which is believed to be due, to some extent at least, to mal-distribution of captured vehicles. Departments have been asked to report their holdings and minimum requirements of transport for immediate use. The figures will be given to the Naval Staff as soon as they are available.\n\nTransport captured from the Japanese is in very bad condition and the lack of spare parts renders its usefulness problematical. The only large holder of serviceable transport is the Airfield Construction Unit which has 200 two-ton lorries.\n\n4.\n\nRecommendation.\n\nIt is suggested that in order to ensure that we obtain our minimum transport requirements, responsibility for Departments such as the P.W.D. should not be assumed until essential transport is made available.\n\n5.\n\nPersonnel.\n\nA speedy return to more normal conditions and efficient administration of the Colony is to a great extent dependent on the provision of officers and clerical personnel. The Civil Secretariat has kindly offered to do clerical work for our Secretariat as a temporary measure, and I am interviewing two clerks on 10th September with a view to engaging them, if satisfactory, on a temporary contract.\n\n6. Summary.\n\nFrom the administrative aspect, the provision of personnel and transport are the two essential factors to the rehabilitation of Hong Kong and the New Territories. It is suggested that a message on the following lines be sent to the War Office and repeated to HQ, S.A.C.S.E.A.\n\n\"Preliminary survey of conditions Hong Kong shows that early provision of staff and transport is essential to proper administration of Colony. Request that officer and clerical personnel be sent by air and that W.E. transport and workshop section be despatched earliest possible if not already in transit\".\n\n9. 9. 45.\n\n(Sgd) C. DELAMAIN, COL\n\nD.D. (Admin) C.A.",
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    {
        "id": 576577,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "page_number": 85,
        "title": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "content_text": "85\n\n2. Personnel\n\n(a) Until further instructions are issued by the units referred to at para 1(b) above will not be shown.\n\n(b) Personnel to complete the above units to be provided on application direct as follows :-\n\nOffrs, Cols & above & Staff Offrs to War Office (HS Branches)\n\nORs - RA, RC, RMC, RE, REME, RASC, RAMC, etc. to OC Records concerned\n\nRemainder to War Office (AG1E)\n\nC. Records\n\nThe above units will be affiliated to In Records Warwick under the provisions of ACI 458/44\n\nArrangements will be made by the War Office (C20) for an initial supply of stationery and publications to be despatched, without requisition, to the units at the address given in para 1 above, so as to arrive as soon as possible.\n\nA standard supply of Al's will similarly be despatched, without requisition, by the appropriate MD.\n\nApplication for office machinery i.e. typewriters and duplicators, will be submitted by the units on AFL 1392 (in manuscript if the form is not available) direct to the War Office (C2c), Cornwall House, Curzon Street, London, W1.\n\n5. Strength Returns\n\nA.Fs B157(Mar) will be completed and rendered in accordance with the instructions contained in the pamphlet \"Unit Guide to Personnel Strength Returns (Home) 1944\" issued with LCI 148/45.\n\nThe War Office copies of A's 3156(ar) (see CI 110/44 as amended by ACI 241/44) and Pt II Orders (Ors)(see MUI 789/43) will be endorsed \"G1(Offrs)\" in the top right-hand corner.\n\n6. Equipment\n\nA scale of vehicles, as laid down by the War Office, will be issued without demand under arrangements to be made by the War Office branches concerned.\n\n7. Controlled Stores\n\nAF G1000, the monthly census of War Office controlled stores, will be completed in accordance with ACI 724/45.\n\n8. Formation Report\n\nFormation reports on the specimen proforma given below, will be rendered direct to War Office (SD1) London by those units within seven days of date of formation. Any subsequent changes in location will be reported in accordance with AUI 948/43.\n\nFORMATION REPORT\n\nUnit\n\nActual location\n\nDate of formation\n\nAddress for postal purposes\n\nTele No\n\nDate\n\nWar Office authority for formation\n\nSignature of Commanding Officer\n\n... Crekban\n\nINDG",
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    },
    {
        "id": 576818,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "page_number": 43,
        "title": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "content_text": "(58)\n\n5. These POW were accommodated in Whitfield Barracks, Argyle Street Camps and Shamshuipo Camp with the Civilian internees in Stanley Camp.\n\n6. No. 3 Commando Brigade (less one commando on Hong Kong island) is accommodated in some 28 requisitioned buildings on the mainland. The Brigade HQ. is in the town of Kowloon while three commandos are accommodated in the New Territories.\n\n7. An extensive area of some 75 civilian buildings had to be set aside in Kowloon (the Garden City at Kowloon Tong) as a staging post for the 1st, 8th, 13th and 93rd Armies on their way through Hong Kong to Manchuria.\n\nFuture Plans\n\n8. It is proposed to build four camps in the New Territories—three for British infantry and the fourth for a Bde. HQ. This plan is based on the assumption that the final Garrison will comprise two bdes. of which one bde. will be accommodated in the New Territories. These proposals await War Office approval.\n\n9. It is also proposed to turn Shamshuipo Camp into an administrative area to comprise:—\n\n10. Field Supply Depot\nOrdinance Depot\nMedical Stores\nSignal Stores\nEngineer Stores Depot\nREME Workshops\n\nOn the completion of these plans, the only requisitioned buildings to be retained will be the Force Headquarters Officers' messes on the Island and five or six officers' messes on the mainland.\n\n(59)\n\nE. RELATIONS WITH THE CHINESE MILITARY IN CHINA\n\n1. In general the establishment of good relations with the Chinese military authorities has been governed almost directly by the degree to which it has been possible to make personal contact with the senior Chinese officers.\n\nWhenever and wherever senior British officers have been able to meet senior Chinese officers a marked improvement in co-operation has invariably followed.\n\n2. In particular the military authorities in Canton would appear to have gone out of their way to maintain a cordial understanding with the British in Hong Kong. This would appear to be due, first, as a result of frequent interchange of visits between senior officers from Hong Kong and Canton, second because of the practical and material assistance which Hong Kong has been able to make to Canton and third, by reason of the friendly and helpful attitude shown by us to Chinese troops who have passed through Kowloon on their way to North China.\n\n3. Discipline of the Chinese troops, over 100,000 of whom have now embarked from Hong Kong has been most satisfactory and it is quite clear that it is due in the main to the pressure which has been brought to bear on formation and unit commanders from above.\n\nIt has been made easier, again, through the same underlying cause, namely former contacts between the General Officer Commanding and a number of Chinese commanders during the Burma Campaign.\n\n4. General Chang Fa-Kwei, Commander-in-Chief of the Kwangtung-Kwangsi Provinces, whose Headquarters is at Canton, has sent a personal liaison officer together with a small unit of Chinese military police to work with the British military authorities and be responsible for the maintenance of the discipline of Chinese troops passing through Hong Kong and of the heterogeneous collection of officers, officials and others who appear in Hong Kong from time to time, dressed in uniform, on various forms of business and/or pleasure.\n\n71",
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    {
        "id": 576832,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "page_number": 57,
        "title": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "content_text": "Introduction \n\nREPORT BY THE \n\nAIR OFFICER COMMANDING. \n\nAt the time of the capitulation of Japan on 15th August, 1945, the nearest body of British troops which could be made available to implement the surrender of the Japanese armed forces in Hong Kong was the first convoy of Tiger Force which consisted of some 3,500 R.A.F. personnel and stores and equipment en route to Okinawa. This convoy, known as \"Shield\" Force, had reached Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands and was immediately diverted by the Chiefs of Staff to Hong Kong to act initially purely in a military capacity to assist in the re-occupation of the Colony.\n\nArrival and Deployment of R.A.F.\n\n2. \"Shield\" convoy arrived in Hong Kong in the S.S. \"Empress of Australia\" on 4th September, 1945. The eight \"Sam\" ships carrying equipment, M.T. and plant followed closely after. Notwithstanding the fact that the majority of the R.A.F. personnel in this convoy belonged to an airfield construction unit and were primarily artisans, they went ashore in Kowloon in the role of combat troops and, full of enthusiasm for an unusual task, acquitted themselves with distinction. The primary tasks undertaken by \"Shield\" personnel were:—\n\n(a) The rounding up of Japanese armed forces.\n\n(b) The restoration of law and order.\n\n(c) The prevention of looting by the Chinese.\n\n(d) The restoration of certain public services.\n\n3. The remaining elements of \"Shield\" undertook their own specialist task in accordance with their particular function. No. 80 Mobile Field Hospital established a hospital for all services and civilians and opened up medical inspection rooms in various quarters of Kowloon. No. 100 E.U. established themselves in the dockyard and proceeded with the task of unloading the freight ships. The nucleus of 200 and 201 Staging Posts moved to Kai Tak airfield and the nucleus Headquarters of R.A.F. Hong Kong established themselves in requisitioned property on Hong Kong Island. It is interesting to note that air operations began on 7th September, 1945, when the first Dakota arrived from Kunming and took off on the following day with a load of RAPWI.\n\nPage 94",
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    {
        "id": 576897,
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        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "page_number": 122,
        "title": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "content_text": "158\n\nCivil Affairs Directive to the Senior Officer Commanding His Britannic Majesty's Forces in Hong Kong.\n\nIt is assumed that\n\n1. Upon the surrender of Hong Kong to His Majesty's Forces you assumed by Proclamation full powers and Jurisdiction over persons and property in Hong Kong, and established a British Military Administration throughout the Colony,\n\n2. In order to enable you to carry on the Military Administration of Hong Kong, a Chief Civil Affairs Officer, Brigadier D.M. MacDougall, has been appointed to administer the civil population on your behalf and subject to your direction. He has been furnished with a staff of officers, made available so far as possible by the Colonial Office, from those who have knowledge of the Colony, the people and the language. This C.A. Unit is intended to form the nucleus of the Staff of the Civil Government of the Colony when it is established.\n\n3. The C.A.O. and a nucleus staff of key officers are proceeding by air with all possible speed. He will be furnished with a general directive on Civil Affairs policy and with directives on particular matters of importance (e.g. Financial Policy).\n\n4. The remainder of the Civil Affairs Unit will follow as transport facilities become available.\n\n5. Pending the arrival of the C.C.A.O., you will take such steps as your resources permit\n\n(a) to maintain law and order,\n\n(b) to render aid to civilian internees until they come under the control of some other responsible authority,\n\n(c) to control the influx of civilians by sea or land,\n\n(d) to guard or secure public utilities, banks, buildings likely to contain records, and any essential civilian supplies,\n\n(e) to seize the Japanese Treasury and the Yokohama Specie Bank,\n\n6. As it has not been possible to provide the C.C.A.O. with an adequate police force, it is possible that service personnel will be required to fulfil the majority of these functions for a considerable period after the establishment of the Military Administration.\n\n7. On the arrival of the C.C.A.O. you have authority to delegate to him all or any of the powers which you have assumed by proclamation. In order to relieve yourself so far as possible of the detailed work of civil administration you should exercise this power of delegation to the maximum extent compatible in your judgment with military considerations. Delegated powers should, however, remain subject to your orders and directions and will be revocable by you should military considerations make revocation desirable.\n\n18",
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    {
        "id": 576908,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "page_number": 133,
        "title": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "content_text": "C.O.\n\nREGISTERED No.\n\nDRAFT AND RECORD COPY\n\nLETTER SENT\n\nDATE\n\nсл\n\nDRAFT\n\nMR. Paskin\n\nMR.\n\nMR.\n\n99.8.20/8\n\n64144/65\n\nDear Owen Hughes,\n\nDowning Street, 8.4.1.\n\n20th August, 1945.\n\nI understand that you have asked the Hong Kong Planning Unit for some draft suggestions as to the material which should go into Directives to the Senior Officer Commanding the Forces in Hong Kong; and the C.C.A., Hong Kong.\n\nENCLOSURES\n\n(a) 3\n\n(b) 4\n\nFURTHER ACTION\n\nsent 2 Copies to:\n\nBrig. Redongall Winger\n\nHK.P.U.\n\nThe Unit have now prepared the two annexed drafts and have asked me to pass them on to you. Those in the Colonial Office have not attempted any extensive revision of these documents as we have no idea of the form in which you may wish them to be cast. All that we have done therefore is to lightly amend the wording of the passages in which the C.O. is more directly concerned (e.g. the paragraph in the Directive to the Force Commander about the \"Dual Responsibility\" of the C.C.A., and references to the ultimate transfer to a civil Government).\n\nIf the passage about \"Dual Responsibility\" in the draft Directive to the Force Commander is agreed...\n\nMAJOR AREA HINS.\n\n[2171A] Wt. 31272/300 20m. 10/43 C.N.Ld. 748\n\nPage 169\n\n \nPage 169\n\nPage 169",
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    {
        "id": 576910,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "page_number": 135,
        "title": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "content_text": "v. redraft No.6.\n\nDraft\n\n4\n\nCivil Affairs Directive to the Senior Officer Commanding His Britannic Majesty's Forces in Hong Kong,\n\nIt is assumed that\n\n1. Upon the surrender of Hong Kong to His Majesty's Forces you assumed by Proclamation full powers and jurisdiction over persons and property in Hong Kong, and established a British Military Administration throughout the Colony.\n\n2. In order to enable you to carry on the Military Administration of Hong Kong, a Chief Civil Affairs Officer, Brigadier D.M. MacDougall, has been appointed to administer the civil population on your behalf and subject to your direction. He has been furnished with a staff of officers, made available so far as possible by the Colonial Office, from those who have knowledge of the Colony, the people and the language. This Unit is intended to form the nucleus of the Staff of the Civil Government of the Colony when it is established.\n\n3. The C.C.A.O. and a nucleus staff of key officers are proceeding by air with all possible speed. He will be furnished with a general directive on Civil Affairs policy and with directives on particular matters of importance (e.g. Financial Policy).\n\nAlso, the remainder of the Civil Affairs Unit will follow as transport facilities become available.\n\n5. Pending the arrival of the C.C.A.O., you will take such steps as your resources permit:\n\n(a) to maintain law and order,\n\n(b) to render aid to civilian internees until they come under the control of some other responsible authority,\n\n(c) to control the influx of civilians by sea or land,\n\n(d) to guard or secure public utilities, banks, buildings likely to contain records, and any essential civilian supplies,\n\n(e) to seize the Japanese Treasury and the Yokohama Specie Bank.\n\nAs it has not been possible to provide the C.C.A.O. with an adequate police force, it is possible that service personnel will be required to fulfil the majority of these functions for a considerable period after the establishment of the Military Administration.\n\nOn the arrival of the C.C.A.O., you have authority to delegate to him all or any of the powers which you have assumed by proclamation. In order to relieve yourself so far as possible of the detailed work of civil administration, you should exercise this power of delegation to the maximum extent compatible in your judgment with military considerations. Delegated powers should, however, remain subject to your orders and directions and will be revocable by you should military considerations make revocation desirable.\n\n18",
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    },
    {
        "id": 576912,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "page_number": 137,
        "title": "CO129-591-12 Military Administration- Civil affairs- directives to force commander and senior officials 24-2-1945 - 13-9-1945",
        "content_text": "Civil Affairs Directive to the Senior Officer Commanding His Britannic Majesty's Forces in Hong Kong.\n\n4\n\n173\n\n1. Upon the surrender of Hong Kong to His Majesty's Forces you assumed by Proclamation full powers and jurisdiction over persons and property in Hong Kong, and set up a Military Administration.\n\n2. In order to enable you to carry on the Military Administration of Hong Kong, a Chief Civil Affairs Officer, Brigadier D.M. MacDougall, has been appointed to administer the civil population on your behalf and subject to your direction. He has been furnished with a staff of officers, made available so far as possible by the Colonial Office, from those who have knowledge of the Colony, the people and the language.\n\n3. The C.C.A.O. and a nucleus staff of key officers are proceeding by air with all possible speed. He will be furnished with a general directive on Civil Affairs policy and with directives on particular matters of importance (e.g. Financial Policy). The remainder of the Civil Affairs Unit will follow as transport facilities become available.\n\n5. Pending the arrival of the C.C.A.O., you will take such steps as your resources permit:\n\n(a) to maintain law and order,\n\n(b) to render aid to civilian internees until they come under the control of the responsible authority,\n\n(c) to prevent the influx of civilians by sea or land, and to prevent the escape of such known Quislings as are brought to your notice;\n\n(d) to guard or secure public utilities, banks, buildings likely to contain records, and any essential civilian supplies,\n\n(e) to seize the Japanese Treasury and the Yokohama Specie Bank.\n\n6. As it has not been possible to provide the C.C.A.O. with an adequate police force, it is possible that service personnel will be required to fulfil the majority of these functions for a considerable period after the establishment of the Military Administration.\n\n7. On the arrival of the C.C.A.O you have authority to delegate to him all or any of the powers which you have assumed by proclamation. In order to relieve yourself so far as possible of the detailed work of civil administration you should exercise this power of delegation to the maximum extent compatible in your judgment with military considerations. Delegated powers should, however, remain subject to your orders and directions and will be revocable by you should military considerations make revocation desirable.\n\n8. The functions of the military administration are two-fold:\n\n(a) Short-term. The maintenance of law and order and the prevention of disease and unrest. The implementation of this will require supplies of food, clothing, medical goods, etc., and of equipment for the maintenance or restoration of essential services; these will be shipped as soon as possible.\n\n(b) Long-term. The restoration of the framework of the administration of the Colony with a view to the establishment of stable civil government, and the rehabilitation of the social and economic life of the Colony with a view to its future well-being and prosperity.\n\n9.",
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    {
        "id": 579345,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-592-4 Reports on current situation- Police 14-11-1945 - 1-7-1946",
        "page_number": 24,
        "title": "CO129-592-4 Reports on current situation- Police 14-11-1945 - 1-7-1946",
        "content_text": "Date. 8.12.41\n\nDistrict. Hong Kong\n\nTime. 23.59\n\nKowloon. 79.\n\nEmergency Unit, Kowloon. 80.\n\n81. Kowloon.\n\n82. Hong Kong.\n\n9.12.41 Tsun Wan 06.00 2.\n\nTsun Wan. 07.00 3.\n\nSham Shui Po. 08.00 to 16.00 4.\n\nTsun Wan. 09.00 5.\n\nHung Hom. 09.00\n\n6. High, ing Kong\n\n7. Hong Kong & Kowloon.\n\n8. Sham Shui Pr Yaumati, Mong Kong, Kowloon City & Hung Hom.\n\n9. 9-12.41\n\nHo market were being looted. Shaukiwan police also attended.\n\nUnder Special Branch supervision divisional police completed round up of about 65 \"Other enemy\" aliens and about 37 \"Other enemy\" female and children aliens. The Police Reservists round up about 21 Japanese females and children. The \"Other enemy\" male aliens were conveyed to Stanley. The European women and children were interned in the Union Hotel, formerly the Matsubara Hotel, and the Japanese women and children in the Chitose Hotel. At both hotels the women and children were looked after by Prison Wardresses and a Police guard for the Union Hotel and a Police Reserve guard for the Chitose Hotel were provided. Police Reserve also provided guards for certain Japanese business premises and bailiffs were put in later the same day under Special Branch supervision. Unit received no calls during the day.\n\nAssistant Superintendent of Police, Kowloon, reports that the food control arrangements in Kowloon broke down completely. Police were lucky to receive rice once daily and this did not include \"Sung\". Rice shops had to be forcibly opened and kept open. Queues were effectively controlled.\n\nMr. Heath, Assistant Superintendent of Police, reports that Asiatic Police were inclined to be \"truculent\" when they found that they could not obtain food for themselves or their families.\n\nA steady stream of British soldiers were observed beginning to pass the station in retreat on their way into Kowloon.\n\nP.S.A.203 Groves, Officer in charge Tsun Wan, was informed by some Royal Scots that the enemy had reached the Shing Mun Catchment.\n\nMany air raid alarms took place. Half of Lai Chi Kok female prison was evacuated.\n\nOn instructions from Senior Superintendent of Police, Kowloon, Officer in charge contacted the Officer Commanding of the Shing Mun Redout and gathered that there were three or four British patrols out in front of the Redout contacting the enemy. He was also informed that Japanese in civilian clothing had been cutting barbed wire and telephone wires during the night. He made a report of the position to the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kowloon, who instructed him to hang on and remain at the station, reporting the situation as frequently as possible.\n\nThe Cantonese police at the Hung Hom Wireless Station and Railway Works Vital Post deserted except for the Cantonese Sub Inspector. They were replaced.\n\nThe Food Control started to issue rice and Police from then on controlled rice queues.\n\nMost of the rice shops had closed down and on instructions from the Commissioner of Police during the day and succeeding days were forcibly opened and kept open by mobile patrols. In some cases Police had to be posted permanently on duty to see that sales continued.\n\nOwing to scarcity of rice, riots occurred, particularly in Sham Shui Po, but police restored order. Special police action was required on this and the",
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    {
        "id": 579378,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-592-4 Reports on current situation- Police 14-11-1945 - 1-7-1946",
        "page_number": 57,
        "title": "CO129-592-4 Reports on current situation- Police 14-11-1945 - 1-7-1946",
        "content_text": "57\n\nDate.\n\nDistrict.\n\nTime.\n\n34.\n\nAberdeen.\n\n35.\n\nEastern.\n\n36.\n\nCentral, Western & Upper Levels.\n\n37.\n\nEmergency Unit Hong Kong.\n\n38\n\nEastern.\n\n49.\n\n19.12.4\n\nfailed, (or possibly was cut off by the enemy). 18.15 L.S.A.142 Kinloch was detailed to proceed to Aberdeen with Mr. Kendall to investigate the situation. They 21.30 contacted the Naval Authorities at the Industrial School and later loaded a lorry with hand grenades and Bren Guns. One of the latter was handed over to a Canadian Officer during the return trip though he admitted that neither he nor his men understood how to use it. Simple instruction was given to the Officer by Sgt. Kinloch. Aberdeen was found to be full of naked and bright lights. There appeared to be a certain amount of Fifth Columnist activity going on. Sgt. Kinloch judged this from seeing about six houses on the hillside burning from the bottom up which looked like the work of saboteurs, apart from the houses set alight from shell fire which were burning furiously from top to bottom. There was spasmodic sniping going on in the vicinity of the Industrial School which did not appear to emanate from the enemy. Civil control appeared to have broken down. The harbour was full of sunken and blazing craft.\n\nA second trip was later made to Aberdeen during which a house above the University was noticed to have been set ablaze from shell fire. Early Lt. Col. Stewart, Officer Commanding Middlesex Regiment, requested that Police should provide (a) two Lewis gun sections to work in conjunction with a Middlesex Machine gun section under a Sergeant Gilham and operate in the front line, and (b) a squad armed with Thompson guns to patrol the water front in the district. Col. Stewart added that Police should be prepared to evacuate No.2 Station at short notice in case the Japanese broke through.\n\nThe required patrols consisting of eight Europeans and a number of Indians to act as Riflemen together with the above named automatic guns were duly furnished.\n\nAt first the front line ran along Stewart Road but later the same night was moved up to Percival Street. The Lewis gun parties accompanied the Military to this forward position and operated in the vicinity of the Lee Theatre and the Po Leung Kuk.\n\nNight. The Police took over patrolling of the water front at night in Central and Western districts from the Military, i.e. the area from the Royal Naval Yard to Kennedy Town. This continued until the surrender. Central, with the assistance of Upper Levels, as the former was very short of men, provided three patrols composed of Europeans covering the following limits:- (i) Murray Road to Douglas Street, (ii) Douglas Street to Wing Wo Street, (iii) Wing Wo Street to Morrison Street. Western provided two patrols composed of Europeans covering the following limits:- (i) Morrison Street to Eastern Street, (ii) Eastern Street to Kennedy Town. A mobile patrol was also maintained occasionally from Morrison Street to Deep Water Bay.\n\nIf the number of men at No.7 Station permitted, a third patrol on foot covered the Hill Road to Kennedy Town area, in which case the Eastern Street to Kennedy Town patrol was shortened to end at Hill Road.\n\n21.00 A patrol was carried out in Central district in connection with a report that Fifth Columnists were active. Nothing was found.\n\n22.00 Sub Inspector Taylor with the first Police European Lewis gun team and twelve Indian Police Constables, who served as riflemen, posted at old No.1 Station heard heavy firing and failing to gain touch with the second Police Lewis gun party, which had been stationed at the Lee Theatre, and with the Military at Hennessey Road retired. The twelve Indian Police",
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    {
        "id": 579385,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-592-4 Reports on current situation- Police 14-11-1945 - 1-7-1946",
        "page_number": 64,
        "title": "CO129-592-4 Reports on current situation- Police 14-11-1945 - 1-7-1946",
        "content_text": "Date. \n\nDistrict. \n\nTime. \n\n15. Eastern. 16. Emergency Unit Hong Kong. 17. Eastern. 18. Upper Levels. 19. Western. 20. Emergency Unit Hong Kong. 21. Western. 23.12.41. Eastern. 40. 23.12.41 63\n\nspot advised against such an attempt during daylight hours owing to the close proximity of the enemy and would not allow the party past Wong Chuk Hang Path. There was small spasmodic fire. The party observed two or three lorries lying across the road with some dead Naval ratings in them. They had been ambushed there a day or two previously. Our troops had re-taken the position since and manned a nearby pill box. The enemy were on Shouson Hill and also on Mount Cameron from which last they were in the process of retiring. Whilst Police were still there the Military in the Pill box received orders to open fire with machine guns on the enemy at Mount Cameron which they did. The Police party volunteered to make a second attempt later. The same party, except that Mr. Fay, Assistant Superintendent of Police, replaced Mr. Wright Nooth, proceeded again to Aberdeen in the evening to make a second attempt but this time were stopped at the Naval Headquarters at the Aberdeen Industrial School by Commander Millet and were not allowed to go on, so nothing further transpired. The party was informed that they could not undertake the work unless they were in a Military convoy as it was considered too dangerous. (See Entry No.16 of 23.12.41 and Entry No.1 of 25.12.41 for third, and fourth (successful) attempts.)\n\np.m. The British line withdrew to Caroline Hill Road, the Monument and the Pharsee Cemetery.\n\n17.00 The Unit was called out on a false report that looting was taking place at the Central Cinema.\n\n19.00 Sub Inspector Madgewick and a Police party who were acting as a guard to the Military Hospital withdrew from the Jockey Club, with the Commissioner of Police's and Director of Medical Services' approval, given in case the enemy broke through and found an armed party in the hospital.\n\n20.45 A report was received that signalling was being carried on from the Nethersole Hospital. Police under Mr. Wright Nooth, Assistant Superintendent of Police, searched and remained on the roof for two hours without result.\n\n21.30 A report was made to the Station that the Japanese had landed at Eastern Street. Police visited but found it to be untrue.\n\n22.00 The Emergency Unit Europeans, owing to a shortage of manpower, formed part of a patrol covering a section of the waterfront. The Bata Shoe shop was found deserted and the stock was taken to Police Headquarters and handed over to the Storekeeper.\n\n23.59 A Police patrol under L. S. A. 148 MacDonald reported the landing of Japanese troops at the China Merchants Wharf. Police Headquarters were informed and Mr. Calthrop, Senior Superintendent of Police, passed on the information to the Military. Other Police, however, visited but found no traces of them. (As no further news of this landing was ever received, it seems definitely to have been an erroneous report.)\n\n* 1\n\n06.30 At 06.30 hours, at the request of Col. Stewart, the Officer Commanding East Brigade, Mr. Luscombe, Assistant Superintendent of Police, took a volunteer party of Police consisting of himself, P.S. A.53 Brown, P.S.A. 185 Galvin, L. S. A.124 Oakley, L. S. A. 34 Flaherty to the Imperial Chemical Industries Godowns in Great George Street used for food storage by the Food Controller, about 200 yards in front of our front line in Percival Street. Col. Stewart complained that looting was going on and that the looters were masking his line.",
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    {
        "id": 579957,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-592-9 Future Policy in Hong Kong- Port Administration 13-1-1945 - 4-3-1946",
        "page_number": 124,
        "title": "CO129-592-9 Future Policy in Hong Kong- Port Administration 13-1-1945 - 4-3-1946",
        "content_text": "Base Sub-area Commander.\n\nThe Base Sub-Area Commander is responsible for:-\n\n12:4\n\n(1) Defence of the Sub-Area (except seaward), including fire fighting, F.A.D. arrangements and measures for security.\n\n(ii) Furtherance of the requirements of general administration within the jurisdiction in accordance with the directions issued from Force H.Q. or H.Q. L. of C., and for local administration and discipline of Army personnel.\n\n(iii) Allotment of available labour and M.T. to suit day-to-day requirements.\n\n(iv) The co-ordination of military and civil requirements for defence and, in conjunction with the Civil Affairs Officer, the general control of Civil Administration.\n\nSuperintending Sea Transport Officer.\n\nThe Superintending Sea Transport Officer is:-\n\n(1) Jointly responsible with the Port Commandant for the embarkation and disembarkation of personnel, and the loading and discharge of ships carrying Service cargo. (See para. 19 (iv) and (v)).\n\n(ii) The sole representative of the Ministry of War Transport until a civilian representative (Ministry of War Transport representative) is appointed and, as such, is responsible for the supervision of all British-controlled merchant ships.\n\n(iii) Responsible for hiring, when required, from the local owners, any boats or craft which are not to be seized in prize. See also Appendix.\n\n13. Port Commandant.\n\nThe Port Commandant is responsible (see Para. 4) for the co-ordination of the work of all Services which are concerned with the loading and discharge of ships or with the clearance of personnel, M.T. and stores through his area or jurisdiction.\n\n14. Royal Air Force Representative.\n\nThe R.A.F. representative's function is, primarily, to ensure that R.A.F. requirements within the port area are met. Where this officer is also the Officer Commanding R.A.F. Embarkation Unit, he has the additional function, subject to the co-ordination of the Port Commandant, of handling R.A.F. traffic through the Port.\n\n15. Ministry of War Transport Representative.\n\nThe Ministry of War Transport Representative is responsible for:-\n\n(1) Supervising the operation, turnround, and efficiency of all British-controlled Merchant ships, collaborating with the Superintending Sea Transport Officer in respect of vessels on Sea Transport Service.\n\n(ii) In collaboration with the Navy, the taking over and recommissioning of captured shipping.\n\n(iii) Under the direction of the Ministry of War Transport in London, the allocation of the necessary tonnage for all civil exports.\n\n(iv) Advising whatever body is set up to handle relief and general economic rehabilitation in the occupied territory on all shipping matters.\n\n/(16)...",
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    {
        "id": 582595,
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        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-595-9 The British Military Administration of Hong Kong- report- 1946 11-7-1946 - 2-9-1946",
        "page_number": 44,
        "title": "CO129-595-9 The British Military Administration of Hong Kong- report- 1946 11-7-1946 - 2-9-1946",
        "content_text": "72\n\n(58)\n\n5. These POW were accommodated in Whitfield Barracks, Argyle Street Camps, and Shamshuipo Camp with the Civilian internees in Stanley Camp.\n\n6. No. 3 Commando Brigade (less one commando on Hong Kong island) is accommodated in some 28 requisitioned buildings on the mainland. The Brigade HQ is in the town of Kowloon while three commandos are accommodated in the New Territories.\n\n7. An extensive area of some 75 civilian buildings had to be set aside in Kowloon (the Garden City at Kowloon Tong) as a staging post for the 1st, 8th, 13th, and 93rd Armies on their way through Hong Kong to Manchuria.\n\n## Future Plans\n\n8. It is proposed to build four camps in the New Territories—three for British infantry and the fourth for a Bde HQ. This plan is based on the assumption that the final Garrison will comprise two bdes, of which one bde will be accommodated in the New Territories. These proposals await War Office approval.\n\n9. It is also proposed to turn Shamshuipo Camp into an administrative area to comprise:\n \n10. \n| Depot/Workshop |\n| --- |\n| Field Supply Depot |\n| Ordinance Depot |\n| Medical Stores |\n| Signal Stores |\n| Engineer Stores Depot |\n| REME Workshops |\n\nOn the completion of these plans, the only requisitioned buildings to be retained will be the Force Headquarters Officers' messes on the Island and five or six officers' messes on the mainland.\n\n(59)\n\n## E. RELATIONS WITH THE CHINESE MILITARY IN CHINA\n\n1. In general, the establishment of good relations with the Chinese military authorities has been governed almost directly by the degree to which it has been possible to make personal contact with the senior Chinese officers.\n\nWhenever and wherever senior British officers have been able to meet senior Chinese officers, a marked improvement in co-operation has invariably followed.\n\n2. In particular, the military authorities in Canton would appear to have gone out of their way to maintain a cordial understanding with the British in Hong Kong. This would appear to be due, first, as a result of frequent interchange of visits between senior officers from Hong Kong and Canton, second, because of the practical and material assistance which Hong Kong has been able to make to Canton, and third, by reason of the friendly and helpful attitude shown by us to Chinese troops who have passed through Kowloon on their way to North China.\n\n3. Discipline of the Chinese troops, over 100,000 of whom have now embarked from Hong Kong, has been most satisfactory, and it is quite clear that it is due in the main to the pressure which has been brought to bear on formation and unit commanders from above.\n\nIt has been made easier, again, through the same underlying cause, namely, former contacts between the General Officer Commanding and a number of Chinese commanders during the Burma Campaign.\n\n4. General Chang Fa-Kwei, Commander-in-Chief of the Kwangtung-Kwangsi Provinces, whose Headquarters is at Canton, has sent a personal liaison officer together with a small unit of Chinese military police to work with the British military authorities and be responsible for the maintenance of the discipline of Chinese troops passing through Hong Kong and of the heterogeneous collection of officers, officials, and others who appear in Hong Kong from time to time, dressed in uniform, on various forms of business and/or pleasure.\n\n73",
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    {
        "id": 582607,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-595-9 The British Military Administration of Hong Kong- report- 1946 11-7-1946 - 2-9-1946",
        "page_number": 56,
        "title": "CO129-595-9 The British Military Administration of Hong Kong- report- 1946 11-7-1946 - 2-9-1946",
        "content_text": "# Introduction\n\n## REPORT BY THE AIR OFFICER COMMANDING\n\nAt the time of the capitulation of Japan on 15th August, 1945, the nearest body of British troops which could be made available to implement the surrender of the Japanese armed forces in Hong Kong was the first convoy of Tiger Force which consisted of some 3,500 R.A.F. personnel and stores and equipment en route to Okinawa. This convoy, known as \"Shield\" Force, had reached Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands and was immediately diverted by the Chiefs of Staff to Hong Kong to act initially purely in a military capacity to assist in the re-occupation of the Colony.\n\n## Arrival and Deployment of R.A.F.\n\n2. \"Shield\" convoy arrived in Hong Kong in the S.S. \"Empress of Australia\" on 4th September, 1945. The eight \"Sam\" ships carrying equipment, M.T. and plant followed closely after. Notwithstanding the fact that the majority of the R.A.F. personnel in this convoy belonged to an airfield construction unit and were primarily artisans, they went ashore in Kowloon in the role of combat troops and, full of enthusiasm for an unusual task, acquitted themselves with distinction. The primary tasks undertaken by \"Shield\" personnel were:\n\n| Task |\n|------|\n| (a) The rounding up of Japanese armed forces. |\n| (b) The restoration of law and order. |\n| (c) The prevention of looting by the Chinese. |\n| (d) The restoration of certain public services. |\n\n3. The remaining elements of \"Shield\" undertook their own specialist task in accordance with their particular function. No. 80 Mobile Field Hospital established a hospital for all services and civilians and opened up medical inspection rooms in various quarters of Kowloon. No. 100 E.U. established themselves in the dockyard and proceeded with the task of unloading the freight ships. The nucleus of 200 and 201 Staging Posts moved to Kai Tak airfield and the nucleus Headquarters of R.A.F. Hong Kong established themselves in requisitioned property on Hong Kong Island. It is interesting to note that air operations began on 7th September, 1945, when the first Dakota arrived from Kunming and took off on the following day with a load of RAPWI.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-595-9 The British Military Administration of Hong Kong- report- 1946 11-7-1946 - 2-9-1946.txt",
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