1909-09-17 — Page 3

HONGKONG

COUNCIL.

A meeting of the Hongkong Legislative Council was held yesterday in the Council

Chamber.

•

Hon. Mr. W. J. GRESION.

Hon. Mr. E. OSBORNE,

Hon, Mr. E. A. HEWETT.

Hon. Mr. MURRAY STEWART.

Hon. Mr. Wai YUK, CMG. Mr. C. CLEMENTI (Clerk of Councils).

MINUTĖS.

The minutes of the lart, mesting were read and confirmed.

FINANCIAL MINUTE,

The COLONIAL SECRITAEr, by command of His Excellency the Governor, laid on the table Financial Minuta (No. 43), and moved that it be referred to the Finsnes Committee.

The COLONIAL TREASURES seaded, and the motion was agreed to.

for

and

to

THE HONGKONG DAILY PRESS, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17m,

tion.

tion

500,

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1909.

an entirely aching

Bill is

This st

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THERE IS SKILL AND

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OF CONSTRUCTION

IN ALL

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WE IMPORT

SUPERIOR VALUE SUPERIOR

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ROBI ROBINSON PIANO

CO., LTD.

(36

at

voted

LEGISLATIVE deals with the imposition of import duties. As if a person of repute lays before him any position, many arguments and questions which by the opium poll which has been forced upon a matter of fact, this particular provision that information that stolen goods are therein otherwise would have been propounded will now us, against our will, by the Imperial Govern will be contained in the Bill is not conceived out secreted. It does not follow that because the be rendered unnecessary.

ment. That, of course, is a valuable point. I Hon. Dr. Ho Kat-Sir, up till this morning regretted to note Your Excellonar mentioned of the more consciousness of the draftsman, but goods are secreted in my house that I am a thief. istaken. from the Ordinances of a neighbouring Frequently in my experience houses hava boon it was not my intention to speak on the second incidentally that possibly the Imperial Govern Colony, the Straits Settlements, almost word searched for goods sected there which were reading of this bill, but after listening to the ment would only give us half the loss. I trust for word, the only difference being that it is stolen by the servants or their friends. It remarks of the learned Attorney-General, which they will be more honest and give us all we lesa offensive. Wo come meat to the method by would be the hoight et folly to say that showed that there was more than one principle are entitled to alaim for acting in accordance which we propose to collect revenue. The it would be unjust that such a right should be is the Bill-first, the principle with regard to with their policy. I mention this point,

in The following were present:-

and it would be absurd to ask the the lovrying of a tax on intoxicating liquors, because in proposing the resolution to increase HIS DECELLENCY THE GOVERNOR, SIE goods artive in the Colony they will be stored overnment to prohibit this right to have concerning the levying of those duties--I am that the increased vanne was not required to

method of to collect the method by won by the servasted there which it was not my BECELLENCY THE GOVERNOR, SIR method of collection will be, shortly, that when gives, and it would be absurd to ask the the levying of a tas

ght to see and soundly, th

eas the principle of enforcing the law the licence foce los Colonial Son to in

Sematary stated FREDERICK Joan DEALTRY

LUGARD, ander band specially licensed for

ander band in the King's warehouse or in search warrants because it was offensive to K.C.M.G, C.B., D.8.0.

It is only a left no choice but to speak, However mu meet any loss on glum. The hon. Attorney- HIS EXCELLENCY COLONEL C. H. DABLING they are delivered direct from the say weapon placed in the hands of the law for the approve of the principle of levying duties on General in referring to the provisions of the

4 warehouse specially licensed for the purpose, a policeman come to the house. It is only a left no choice but to speak. However musk F unless ship

from the ship wetire principles-the drastic principles of anford

fee (General Offloor Commanding).

to the purchaser, who has paid the duty and more effectire unforcement of the law for the Intoxicating liquore, I do not approve of the Bill fortunately id so with grunt detail. It Hon. Mr. A. V. THOMSON (Colonial obtained a permit to take his goods direct from protection of the property of the individual principles the drastic principles of enforcing was donbly fortunats, not only because it throw Becretary.

the ship instead of into a bonded warehouse. This power is for the protection of the Govern and especially of detection: From this you will an illumina fing light on the Bill before us, but

instein H. Bir H. F. BERSILEY, K.C. (Attorney The goods place in boud, of course; will remain ment and therefore

minment and therefore of the public. There is soo, Sir, that. I refer to sections 31 and 35 because it gave me in opportunity of comparing General)

thore until duty has been paid upon them; and nothing objectionable in sach power being Thosa sections give power to il Government to

vary hurriedly, I admit the Bill befere Hon. Mr.C.11. Mr.ssas (Colonisi Treasurer) provision is made in the bill by which goode given. The Council is stultifying itself. If it onder a search of the baggage of all persons lindas dated 16/9/09th the Bill dated 10/9/9. I Hon. Mr. P. N. B. Jones (Director of restored

may be removed frous bond te bond, from passes the law authorising the raising of ing in this Colony, and also to enter every would draw Your Excellency's atttention to the Public Works).

King'e warehouse to private warehouse, or vice revenue, and then refuses to pass the menares business place, and every domestic home in the Bill dated 5/9/09, A Council meeting was hell General). King'a Hon. Mr. A. W.BREW (Registrar Chaueral), verse, upon the production of a removal permit. essential to that law being carried out. I do Colony. Now, Bir, the Attorney-General speed at 2.30 p.m. on the lith inst., but that Hill did Hon. Mr. F. J. BADELAY (Capt. Superinten. That is protically what will happen with regard not orpoot any serious opposition to the to make light of those provisions. He said that not each members until late on the afternoon of

past, the prediction of a removal pormit. esential to that law being carried dent of Palice).

to imported liquor, Then

Then Liquor has to be prindple of thin Bill, and in Committee we can they were not only necessary, but could not be the 9th, so that we had no opportunity to rand it STAMPING THEM IN EVERY WAT Hon. Dr. Ho KAI, M.B., C.M.G.

dealt with that is rande in the Colony. I am discuss these cinusse to which I have referred. offensive; he also seal that they exist in the through until the morning before the Council

said glad to say there are one or two factories where The words " domiciliary visits" have been used Ordinance at Singapore. But he forgota to till meeting. I need hardly say that each unofficjal spirits are distilled, and there is a factory to by some, but the persons who used them did us that in Singapore the provisions are its son. mem ber should haw had an opportunity of con- which wa all wish success, at the head of so in a sense which did not belong to the Anection with the Opiura Farm, and that the insidering with his odieagues molt a far-reaching, the bay here success, at theory to by some, but milliary visits" have referred offensive; only necessary, but said that not on the fifth the bay here, where beer is being made. domiciliary visit is a visit much as are that has the opium monopoly also run the Spirit drastic measure

new form of It is an experiment which we hope will made in certain foreign entries by the ce Farm. These powers of search for the detection legislation in the Colony. I find that when the flourish. With respect to the home-made without obtaining any warrant ou sworn for of contraband goods are not now in Hongkong dicasion took plus-or rather a few remarks liquors, they, of course, would have to pay their mation, entering houses and searching them for They are already conferred on the Opum were mado-at the meeting of 10th September, share towards the revenue. The imposition papers and oth share towards the revenue. The imposition papers and other things. That is meant by Farmer and his excisemen. Every house ore not only I but other hon. xuembers of the upon them will be that which is known as excise, domiciliary visits, and it le an abuse of language could be visited by night or day under warruit, Council were speaking on the provisions of the and, according to the class of liquer made in the to describe the visit paid by the constable held and also avery person landing in the Colony Bill dated 6th int, which they received the L'olony, it will pay whatever the equivalent class ing a warrant issued by the Magistrate on would be searched, as well as his faggage. At the night before, and which they supposed was the of liquor pays on importation. 1 hat to say, sworn information as a fomiciliary visit. It is same time,

connection with. connection with the working of latest edition of the Bill. It was not until if anyone is clever enough to make good a search by the police in the execution of the this law, we thought it was unnecessary Sunday that I found there was snow copy of

a whisky in the Celery, the excise will be law, Sir, I beg to move the second reading of at this stage particularly, for us to consider the Bill dated the nth inst whatever the import duty on good whisky the Bill

those measures. I understand from Your Br

The COLONIAL SECRETARY-I told you that may be, and the samo will apply to beer. The COLONIAL SECRETARY Seconded.

sellency that it is your particular wish that this in seconding the motion. THE LIQUORS ORDINANCE,

Then there is another class of goods, those HD EXCELLENCY-Gentlemen,-It is unal these two classes in, I am afraid that the hurriedly and were not understood. Here again Hill should pass the Council quickly, but with Hon. Mr. HEWET-If you did, you did it The ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL-Sir, I which pass through the Colony in transit. They for the

which pass through the Colony in transit. They for the President of this Council to reserva any discussion on them would involve some won we some here after careful consideration for beg to move the second reading of the Ordinance are quite free from daty, and this Bill does not for the President of this Council to reserve any

are quite free from daty, and this Bill does not observations he may have to make until any siderable time, and that the quick passage of the the best part of the week of the Bill dated 9th to provide for the collection of duties upon touch them at all. They can be put in bond

touch them at all. They can be put in bond hon, mombors who desire to speak have done so, Bill will be delayed. I understand, Sir,further, that September before us, and I find that a new intoxicating spirits. His Excellency in hits and exported again. Ent here it will be neces

but on this occasion, with the consent of the if this Ordinance is passed very soon afterwards in is on the tabb. Thanks to the detailed speech to the Connell when the Bill was mad a way to do what to come people appears offensive

a so afterwards it is on the tabb. Thanks to the detailed Council, I propose to make a fex remarks a consolidating Ordinance will be introdund matuor in which the hon. Attorney-Gerem! first time so fully dealt with it that it will not

namely, to see that such goods pat into bond regarding the financial position without for. I rabmit, therefore, that the two clatises 31 and proposed the motion I was able to look first time so fully dealt with it that it will at are really exported again, and not distributed in feiting my privilege of closing the debate. I 35 should be deleted from the present Bill, and through it and I find that some radical arrive at some solution of the difficulty. We be necessary for me to address the Comell at are really exported again, and not distributed in regarding the financial position without for a consolidating Ordinance will be introduxil

the Cation the Colony. I put it to the gentlemen of the de so because has represented by

made. I think it did not meet to discuss other sources of revenue. gave the ryesons which led the head of the Council that it is a misapplication of the word the about it links better seated to may if, aftor further consideration, they are thought changes have less mals, that arrive at some solution of the difficulty. We gave the reasons tredice this Bill, and showed that goods placed in Colony. Since the which is in the mind of a good what, follows: one of the reasons why heo, bir, in our various and without havind point out to Your import duty. any length. His Excelimoy, on that occasion the any length. His Excellene on that occntion the Colony. I put it to the gentlemen of the feiting my privilege of closing the debate. I rabmit, therefore, that the two clatises 31 and Evvarmegas to

"offensive" to say that it is offensive to see matters if I make some explanations as to the dating Ordinance. There is no necessity, Bir, we complain that s were badly treated, but This does not seem to be fully understood.

the official members that it will facilitate necessary, they can be introduced in the contali is nocessary to emphasise this point, not because It is not Govern bent

our business to prepare the Estimates. the necessity for its introduction for that as were badly treated, but

the that goods placed in bond for export no financial position. I take it that the question to bring into force those parts, as there is ae because I wish Your Excellency to understand We did, howover, as it turned out, discuss other

bond for export matter if I more that it will facilitate if, after further ad from the present Bill, and proposed the maton Attorney-Gener exported, and not used in the Colony. Since the which is in the mind of a good many members machinery to put them in nation at once. That that if called upon to speak and vote upon a Bill possible someces. Nene seorned to suitable purpose of raising the revene necessary to carry was read a first time the matter has of this Council is, I believe, somewhat, na follows: is one of the reasons why I'oppose the retention dated 16th September we are doing so hurriedly as the source indiested. purpose of raising the revonne necessary to carry exported, and not used in the Colony, Since the nancial position; I take it that the question dating Ordinance. There is no necessity, Bir, we complain on His Majesty's Government in the Colony. Bill

Bill was read very carent, and every was He also dealt generally with the till in such received the very careful

anricus On the 13th August last when the resolution of these two classes. Further, sir, in our varias and without having an opportunity of studying sideration we decided to recommend

After much con- a manner that made every member of this consideration of the Government, and every

this consideration of the Government, and overy was introduced into this Connoil it was estimated conferences on the provisions of this Ordiname, its provisions I would point out to Your import duty.

desire has existed to do what was possible to that the revenue which would be derived from or the desirability of passing an Ordinance Excellency that is quite possible that we cading plainly that we did not intend the Council and other person outside who real the desire has existed to do what was possible to atroduced into this Council it was estimated of those two clauses. Further, ir, in our varias and without i

We passed resolutione indi- speech fully soquainted with the principle of the produce a Bill which, while it would have the the operation

the produce a Bill which, while it would have the the operation of that resolation would amomit to of this kind, I thought it was under-ppear to support certain provisions, and when in through trade to be touched in any way the Bill and the measures to be included to give effect of raising the revenue, would be easy to

rované, would be easy to something like two and a half lakhs, whereas stood that there was no, necessity for acti- Committee they do not meet with our approval Cadey was only to my on liquor netnally con- effect to that principle. The principle is, shortly, werkz, and would fall as lightly as pos. something like two and a half lathe, whess of this kind, I thought it was antor- affect to that principle. The principle is, my sible on all of us who are subject to a Bill to impose import duties by which smuggling of spirits into this Colony, and that view of the far-reaching importance of this belief that the Government would receive and and would fall as lightly as Pos to-day we are bringing before the Court cipating any difficulty in the detection of it will be said that we changed enr ideas. In emel in it-and we united in the hope and the imposition of dation upon liquor as being after consideration doomed to be the article meet it. One or two limitations have been made in its

two limitations have been made in it is estimated that the revenue derived under it would not be necessary to institute searches Bill and the changs made in such a very short favourably consider certain suggestions as to

limitations are a first time. ite or even, so the properly subject to duty in the occasion which the Bill since it was printed and rest a first time. it is stimated that the revenue derived under anggling of spirits into this Colony, and that view of the fur- properly subject to duty in the occasion Walo There are not many, and I will ja-t mention eight lakhs or ever, so the hon. member for the In fact, even if we were to institute ad very necessary to emphasise this point. I notice change the character of the port. 4 method

time. ite operation will amount to perhaps seres or has arisen. The House will remember that

orin private houses, and also in places of busines. time three popies aside a work I think it it

the method of collection which would not ariginally it was intended that the revenue one or two of the more important ones. required slionld be met by an increase in the Ln the first instance, we have omitted from the Chamber of Commerce had said, perhaps ten In fact, even if we were to institute ad very necessary to emphasise this poin

the Inkla The question is: Why, if two and a searches, and to find liquor on the premises that among other causes there is one dealing change the character of the port. A method

and a searched, it would be extremely difficult with bottling und blending which has been en- almost

of collection, believed to be at once efflacions focs for Ugnor licences, but, after reflection, interpretation clause the words "medicated half lakhs were

considered sufficient in the searched, it would be extremely after considering the representations made wines," because they will be treated as ordinary heat instance, is the taxpayer being keto for us to prove that it was swinggled, and it tirely out eut of this last Bill, and there are one or and alacet frictivalese, as regards occan after considering the representation wines, and therefore subject to the ordinary pay to much more towards the revease? prove that these liquors had had duty paid on dealt with in Committee. With regard to the which reference has been made. The risks of

tations made wines, and they will come under to which briefly arould remind Fo

to which will be to the Government, it appeared that it wings, and therefore subject to the ordinary being asked to

the private meeting at Government House to would be los harsh if, instead of imposing

duties, or else they will come under the end pay jo much more towards the revenue? would be equally impossible for the owners to two changer, somewhat drastic, high will or steamers, was anggested and thrushed out at

In

them, and to give resous for their being on the changes in this Bill the senior unofficial member duty upon one class, upon persons who belonged tion of denatured wines, wines to which the first place I wil address myself as prove that these liquors had had duty paid on dealt with in Committer, w

briefly as possible in reply to that ques-premises. Liquor, unlike opium, is kept by was speaking on the draft dated 10th September, great distances were held to be so small us to to what is known as "the trade," we should something has been added to make them unit

vion be negligible. It was pointed out that unless I would remind you that

opium, is kept by place it upon the cornmanity as a whole, the for use as a beverage. When we come to I introduced the Budget last year I pointed nearly every householder in the Colony Ears and was apparenty quite unaware of the

Budge: last year I pointed nearly every householder in the Colony, was speaking on the draft dated 10th September, potty smuggling by passengers coming from witch the amount of duty

pean and Chiness alike. One liquor is import fact that there was a new Bill, or if he community of consumers of liquor. Ta other dea!

bout that by appropriating for the revane ed into the Colony without paying duty, is was aware he was unaware of the changes cases of wine are very carefully packed, break- words, it was considered more equitable to place imposed, we propose to have the duty this anty upon the whole community rather on liquors not in bottle at the printed figure of the year the run of 8571,500, theed into the Colony without paying duty, his was aw

rphans I don't

would in any quantog less than a cras was rete to be than upon a single individual or class. The namely, 83.20 a gallon, but with respect to liquor capital amount of Widow and Orphans Fund, almost impossible to detect it, and to bring the made. There is caly point to which I would age is likely to occur, and that, therefore,

The raralt is that the Lionoce Ordinance, the imported in bottle wo propose to ask the Cous together with the amount which the Governorime home to the smuggler. Therefore, these pro like to refer, and that is, to which I would if in any quantity, such cargo is certain thes the imported in bottle wo propose to ask the Coun- ment paid se interest on that sum and equalis band will become w source of irritation to a layed, that your Excellency need be at all worth while changing the character of the port

Counment measure under which it was proposed to raise oil when in Committed to reduce the amount to ment paid se interest on that sum and equalisa- vitious will do very little good, but, on the other, on Inquiries quale, at the net think declared. Anything less than a

raise raise oil when in Committee to reduce the amount to tion of exchange, we incurred a total liability of large number of the inhabitants; so much so afraid so far as European liquors are concerned for. The assumption was that, as regard's ocean tion of exchange, we incurred a total liability of best to be not worth betloring shout, certainly not is $2.40, which, taking six hotties to the gallon, 421.500. In addition to this the Budget did that they will have a tendenor of exciting that any large quality will be imported for the steamers, the collection of the duty could be revenne, has been withdrawn, and in its place in would give aduty of 40 canta a bottle. The reason not balance by 872,170, or, taking the two enmity against the measure, which, with purpose of evading lutions.

is gallon, Int brought forward this Bill to impose a duty upon would give aduty of 40 cents a bottle. The $421.500. In addition to this the Budget did large number of the inhabitants; so much so afraid so far our Excellency. brought forward this Bill to impose a duty upon for this discrimination between liquor in wood and together, 8494,000, or, roughly speaking, live these two clauses left out, would be hard. would be done by delay.

place in $2.40, which, taking six hotties to the saltotion of exchang Chatonta, the necosity for discovering some liquor in other receptacles is that the former is lakhs. This was the amount of the deficit of almost unaniraeusly apported by the com-tirely new departar, and we have no knowledge sions that the case was different as regards

importation of spirituous liquors into this

clauses left out departurisions under which the steamers arriving

worked entirely through the Harbour Office. It Colony. Bir, the necessity for discovering some liquor in other receptacles is that the former is together, $494,000, or, roughly speaking, five hity against the measure, which, with purpose of evading laties. I don't think auch steamers, the collection of the duty could be was seen and agreed, to in all these disodis- fresh source of revanne. I need not dwell upon. of much higher proof, Liquor la oniks is always

st all as to the It is really and generally recognised as a living in a state of high proof which, to use the tech. Last year, which we have to make good in almost unaniraously supported by the com-tirely new departar, and we love necessity in view of the mansures which this nical term, has to be "broken down," reduced estimating for next year. To this we have to manity in general. My third reason for think at all

be "broken down," reduced is that the power of soarching private house is no knowledge

Coast Ports. It seemed to me that special Colony has taken for the aid and assistanes of in strength. Regulations as to breaking add whatever deficit may accrue on the ing that these clauzes are not necessary King's warehouse is be worked. We have steamers arriving from Macao, Canton and the Colony kas taken for the aid and assistance of down" will be made after the Bill has become we have hitherto received From that less that power of search, could be made use of lotions under which httling and blending a very mont. But after hearing the senior uneficial

breaking and

Topovers to deal with passengers by these Chinn in suppressing opisin. Ifis thonlandon-down" will be made after the Bill has become lower tenders for the Opinu Farn than is that the power of soarching private house is no knowledge of duty under bond

has already possessed by the Opium Farmer, and also don't know the conditions and regula-steamers would have to be taken by the Ciorern- ment of the last of the revenue obtained hitherto lav. Bottling and redaction can be permitted

therto lav. Bottling and redaction can be permitted we can deduct whatever sum the Imperial teist the Government in detecting liquor which important industry in this Colony-are to be member this afternoon I should like to think from opium, which we have every reason to in bend We propose, in order to expedite the Government gives substantial part of our susist mont. But after hearing the senior unofficial believe will not come here in such a over

argo unloading of vassels, to give power to the loss. It has been estimated that we lose five Chinamuan with two bottles of whisky or brandy desirable that all those regulations should be that there were to be no finnikin regulations I think it is most over that again. Bat upon this we were all agreed, volume in the future as in the past. That has keoper, whoever he may be, he loss. It has been estimated that we lose fire had been waggled. The ideal ploture of a carried out. Therefore, Bir, y are to be member this afternoon I should like to think be, of the King's lakhs on opinm. If the Imperial Government were up his sleeve is all very well for a comic payer, placed before Connal to give as an opportunity for dealing with passengers by ocean steamera. sponsible for the finances of warehouse, to have goods taken from the to give us half that was there would still reusin but in practice it is not reasonable. First of of discussing them.

mean the Colony to look about for some source that ship without a permit, the keeper of the to give us half that was there would still remain up his sleeve is all very well for a comic paper, placed before Connol to give

TO ATTORNEY.OENERAL-Wait till then these hinta as to what occurred it. ded for King's warelious being a persqa to whom When I proposed the resolution on August 13th would not earn 40 or 50 cents a bottle, as Bill in passed.

The globe-trotter sul his luggage were to go. will give the supply of ready money needed for King's wareliouse being a person to whom two and a half lakhs to make good, but in practice it is not reasonable. First of of discussing them. carrying on the Government of the country. the revenue may ko trusted. It is hoped that When I proposed the resolution on August 13th all, a Chinaman with two bottles up his Eleasa

fres. From the revenue may ko trusted. It is hoped that I he would only get a half or a quarter of the

will be evident that the unofficial members were Hon. Mr. HEWITT-I don't see how we can not For that source we propose to tap that this will prevent the delaying of the ship. We had no anticipation that the increase than would not earn 40 or 50 cents a bottle, as Bill is passed.

suggested would meet this very large debt, but he would only get a half or a quarter of the which we believe the community agrees understand that desires in that respect will be I considered it was tho marirana by which the value of the spirit, for he must smuggle to il pass a Bill and then deal with the legislation in different to this principle of freedom,

which the maximum considerably cheaper than the duty-paid artule it. An entirely nor departare like this, with Your Excelener commented on the unusual which it is, perhaps, their first duty to protect. to be the most legitimate thing, usmely, grintly facilitated by the fact that the Govora. maximum

Govern- fece the consumption of liquor in the Colony.ment will be able to have at its disposal the sould possibly be raised.

can be sold. The Chinaman knows botter. If regulations of such a far-reaching nature, deal- stimate Fet with any precision what the ca the consumption of liquor a large godowns of the Kowloon Wharf and deficit will be when we have completed and make 340 or $50 out of it. Therefore, sir, should not be deal with by the Governor-in-Those were sent to the Press not because we What I have just said, namely, the

deficit will be when we have complied possible he might smuggle two bottles of opina ing with a very important trade of the Colony, nature of the step which we took in making public the resolutions at which we had arrived. fooling of the community in that respect, I am Godown Co. and also of Messrs. Holt.

There the Estimates for next year. It depended

depended the power if given is of no use. It would only Council, but should be dealt with by the Legia justified in saying, because, if I remember will be a new section dealing with the removal sright, His Excelleany, in a speech on the first of liquor in bond; that is, liquors not for in part upon the tender for the Opium Fam, the power if given is of no use. It would only Conzell, but should be dealt with by the Lest

Hon. Mr. MURRAY STEWART said-This seemed desirable. I sama to me desirable cs of the kind the fullest possible publicity reading of the Bill, quoted from a resolution of export. If it is desired to remove these liquors and in part upon the contribution of the In- create alarm, and make people believe that they ative Council before they become operative, were sure that we were right, but because in a the representatives of the people, the unofficial from bond to bond, say, from the King's bond to perial Government. I had hoped that with two would be subjected to further search; first a

anda balf lathe from the increase of liquor licence. search for opiam, and then another by exciesmen day's work in this Council will, in any event, be that any proposals involving taxation should the representatives of the people, the beim s private bond, that can be done if permission fees, together with considerabis retrenchments, to have these powers at the present moment. decision which we as to-day driven to take is liberty is supposed to rest on the very iden

of liquor licence members, to the effect that a duty should d

ce for spirits. I do not think that it is necessary noteworthy in the sasis of the Colony. The be zoferred to the public. English political

for spirits. I do not think that it is necessary noteworthy in the sasis of the Colony. The posed on all foreign and Chinese alcoholic liquors, is obtained from the proper offloor. We pro. Lees,

We pro- together, also will be considerable, I have tho bad the mastar of

Ve pro together, also, with some further savings, which If ligner is brought from Home, ships will fraught with posabilities of danger. No one which prompted our action. We lead soure idea That is what we are doing. The Bill, then, is pose also to ask the Committee to agent to the g

to ligner dire designed to carry inte efect the views of un-reduction of the fee for a licensed warehouse I had hoped will be considerable, and whidi I If liquor is brought from Home, ships will fraught with possbilities of danger. No one liberty is supposed to rest on the very idea

& sent to the together, also, with

whouse will explain in a wook or two when I have tho be held responsible if it is not on a bill of lading, can fail to feel de grave responsibility of which prompted sur action. We had sore idea the that our suggestions might stimulate criticism official members that it is expedient that money from 81,000 to $500. We also propose to ask will explain in a wook or two when I have the be held responsible if it is not on a bill of lading, can fail to feel the

vessel, or the company sharing in it. The occasion takes you by the anat reveal neglected aspects of the question. official members that it is expedient that money the Committee to assent to the principle laeps from these, various sources that wo or owe torreet manifest. Again, it was sugger that you should speak out, if it should seem that ball statement to the effect that the unofficials

We also propose to ask pleasure of introducing the Budget for next year or owner, would be liable of they did not throst and pate you into a corner and demands But, in any case, what happened shows that the

a corner and tomate stimulate required for the purposes of the Treasury should pleasure of introducing the Budget for next year. and the master of be derived by a duty on foreign and Chinese that no licence fee of any kind shall be charged hops owner, would be liable of they did not throat and puts you into

charged should meet, or nearly meet, the five lakhs deficit return o soon But, in any case, what happened shows that the

should meet, or nearly meet, the five lakhs deflect rea

ted that spirits or wins might he smuggled from any aspect of the question needs emphasising urged the Government to put on an import ball statement to the effect that the uneficials alocholis liquors imported into the Colony. It for storage in a naval or military ware should meet, is hot mossary for me to address the Council house. With regard to the proposal which we on last year's revenue. That leaves the loss tad that spirits or wins might is smuggled from any aspect of the question needs omphasisi

on last year's revenue. That leaves the lone all day, dress the Council house. With regard to the proposal which we from the opium practically untouched. It Can both in Canton and Blacno liquor in part the discussions which have led up to this mother eagerness to impose one, is seen to le at at any length on the occasion, because to-day I sine may still think necessary, with regard to passed that regulation to have devised some man would ship liquor to either of these ports, impression Kena old faith in the freedom of the no

qpracticable, One sépect does, in my opinion. Through urged the Government at any length on the occasion, because to-day I originally thought seemed necessary, and which from the opium practically untouched. It Canton or Miseso. That also is impracticable, One aspect does, in my opinion

moduly, in Guty, and it is inconceivable that a ment 1 have been haunted by the fear of an least open to misconstruction. Our choice lay am speaking, on the principle of the Bill, and some may still think necessary, with regard to would, therefore, have her necessary had we because both in Canton and Macno liquor impart the discussions which have led up to this duty, as if the circumstances had its origin that has between two evile, the doubled licensed fees on

been practically accepted, and the inspection of baggage, we propose to nek the passed that relation to have devised need has to pay duty, and it is Inconceivable that a ment I have been haunted I believe hon, members will accept it to-day by Committee to strike out that dss, without farther moans for meeting any deficit which man would ship liquor to either of these ports, impression getting broad that the Colony has least open to misconstruction. Our choice lay *** the one hand, the dnty on the other. Wo passing the second reading unanimously. Let which we trust to be able to make the Bill might result from opium. Now, na regards the and then re-ship it to Hongkong. For these fallen away from its old faith in the freed between two evile, the doubled licensed fees on passing the second reading unanimously effective. These, Sir, are about the only this Bill, you will no doubt all agree with me to allow there two classes to stand over, Waboen soid, in spite of the very satisfactory as evil. Personally, I regret having had to agree to me be permitted to any that we are agreed to effective. These, Sir, aro about the only profit on import duties which we propose aider reasons, Bir, I certainly think that it is advis the part. Your Excellency has tried

profit on it from spinay deficit med bus to

sold se so blind se to fail to see it in the light of an two things that there should be revenue differences between the Bill as originally printed, this Bill, you will no doubt all agree with me able, without at all events farther consideration, pate this impressfor, but in spite of all that has choso, we hope, the lesser evil, but we were not derived from a duty on imported liquors. Aza and the Bill as we shall ask the Committee to that all persons engaged in the liquor trade to allow these two classes to stand over. We boen seid, in spite of the very satisfactory

the Committee to who have at the present time retain thees the deducement to these excisemen, Sey day an

to who have at the present time any stock of other from trade restrictions It goes against the

have already a preventive servise here for saranses which you have given, doubt will, if that is It only follows logically that the pass it this afternoon. I believe that we are who have at the present time any stock Bill that imposes those duties must contain agreed upon the primple of the Bill I beliers Liquor in the Colony will retain these the detection of opium, and by offering I fear, still tende linger. Only the other the surrender of a single inch of our fredom

believer

dint who used to occupy in the Colony duty free. If they sufficient inducement to these excisemen, icy day an old resident who used to ocupy meat there is nobody who does not recogaise the t provisions which will enable the Government there is nobody who does not recognise the

would be willing to give information was a seat at this table wrote to the papera

grin with me to witness the institution of even saying grin with me to effectively collect the duties which the necessity for revenue, and I cannot conceive have stocks intended for sport it is would be willing to give information wlaureat at this table wrote to the

aidan tornateral that they should retain them, and forever in their search for opium, they detected that andnes lies the way to posing the smallest Customs ervice. I am husaubed by we are going the prospect of seeing upon our quays the man Council suthorizes them to impose. The any person who, after calin consideration, eat ther stocks to replace then would be ordered. I liquor. All that would be necessary would be There are many old residents here, and many in the brass but whoss business it is to challenge measures for that purpose will be such as are object to any clauses in the Bill which are re-ter calculated to defeat, to detet, and to panish for quired to make the Bill effective for its purpose think it is very probable, therefore, that thee to give them power to arrest smugglers of more at home having interests here, who in the brass hat whose business it is to challenge calculated to defeat, to detet, and to panish for of collecting revenue. I do not think that any year 1910 will be lees than the ordinary amount, plastion of how they saime in possession of the in any elispe or form may seems to thers to in hold of nearly every country- standing

slanger its solo The inposition of an import duty

met. I object to meeting liquor and to take them to the Central Police view with apprehension erading or smuggling. It is obvious that if of collecting revenus. I do not think that any revente derived from import duties during the liquor and to take them to the Central Police view with apprehension, the you pass the Bill giving the Government power porson who recognises that it is right and year 1910 will be lees than the ordinary amount, Bistion, where, unless they could give a good or in this Bill, the inom the proposals contained to that man wherever me. I think Lobject

war porson who recognises that it is right and is should cornabe rose

and we should not estimate it at more than him so often. He straddles across the thres- to impose duties, you must also give power to proper to impose an import duty cannot agree seven and a half lakhs. From that you et liquor, they could be charged under the provi-dicate on ominous weakening of the ideal which hold of nearly every country-standing to impose duties, you must also give power to that it is essential to carry that principle take a sum for the creation of the machinery old be senfiscated. By these means the Anyone familiar with Hongkong's history, bat solism. He is the outward and visible sign of sions of this Ordinance, and the geots sm nggled has hitherto been the Colony's guiding star false doctrine, financial heresy, and political

nalance to travel the symbol of enferos those duties, otherwise the wacle Bill that it is essential to carry that principle mistiquer, in a faros. It is, I believo, not going too far into

and exercise effect

ahecks and cheoka and the staff collecting the duties--which will prob opposition of a great resjority of people, eps- knowing little of the inside workings which denial of the great doetrine of universal trees the staff collecting the latice which will ob false doctrine, Anancial heresy, and political solism. He is the outward and visible sign of to say that there are very few persons who will infiot panishments where these checks are the staff collecting the duties-which will ob could be confiscated. By these means the Anyone familiar with

mselves out of the way to pay duties rated. We, therefore, propose in the Bill to ably amount to the best part of another lakh, opposition of a grant zasjority of people, eps- knowing little of the inside os history, be put themselves out

best part of another telly of the Chinese community, towards those have resulted in the present measure, may quite trade. In that I still believe, although the

Ink to they are not actively called on to pay. Hence give power to a Magistrate to issue a search leaving, roughly, six and a half lakhs to inlly of the Chinese community, towards these have resulted in the present

ach it is that in every country where revenue is warrant to examine premises in which he has meet the Ave lakha deficit on Iast year's clanges would be removed, and the object of the conceivably imagis that an extraordinary trade. In that I still believe, although the

in mind partly derived from import duties there is that reason to believe ligters are concealed. This is estimate, in addition to the opium lat. Ordinance would not suffer to any appreciable thing has happened He will have it in and hopes on which it is bed socm more than ever Looking to retrenchments which we have been extent. When wo go into Committee on the that hitherto propeals to impede by taxation din. But dim though they may sppear, and institution known as the Caston House. And not peculiar to Hongkong, as there is no ovon in England, where it is supposed thers country in the world where right of search does able to effect, and other savings alluded to; I Bill I will move that these clauses unould be the unfettered freelem of hade have usually though elsewhere it may be that retaliation is emaasted from the Government and have stead justifiable, the jealous guarding of that doctrine emanated from the Government and have

the Government usually tough they may

steadin Colony hope that this sum will meet our requirement deleted is absolutely free trade, people landing from not exist. There is certainly not Colony abrouil are liable to have their baggage examinin

in which that power does not exist. It is the good, but you will me yourselves that the en, and I have much pleasure in supporting seemed to come from the community, and be Thanday evening the evening before the first

next year, and I hope it will leave us a little to

hope it will leave ed, and it takes more or less time to gat it passed necesary to prevent the smuggling of datiable the good, but you will see yourselves that the remarks of my hon. friend, the Hon. Dr. o manity. He will note that the present proposals of car situation. And so when I read the

leir which that through the Customs. The eatly been opposed by the moreantile com- in this Colony is dictated by the vital necessities through the Customs. This Bil will, of goods. In this Colony we have the principle margla is not large. Will regard to the Kai, and I have much pleasure in supporting esemed to come from the community, and he version this Bil which reached me lust course, cantain such measures as are ser applied to the provention of the statiggling of following year, 1911, I would remind you that him.

contains. This Bidary to prevent does not exist. next

or applied to the provention of the sanggling of in that year we have to meet the fall interest on will be discussed vary fully in Commitee vital question has undergone a remarkable themselves powers under which a complete

Amay conclude that the attitude of this coma Hon. Mr. HEWETT-Your Excellency,As munity's representatives towards an old and that the Government proposed to arrogate to ce-I was staggered, to find ring took place He will be discussed vary intended to make class for the proposed not teok to abirk any tu bender them Customs stat in the harbour, sential for the enforcing of the duties lion sterling; also that the sential for the enforcing of the duties arms and ammunition. I will leave it to the in that year we have to meet the full interest on

Hoof capital account of the railway, interest once I will reserve the remarks I intended to make change. That is not the case. True, responsi Customs service oculd be established. How

interest ou le I will rive at that stage general purport responsibility to make clear the of the proposals in eroding into the which the Council emporers the Government Council to imagine what vains the Prohibition of capital account of the railway, interest on cue this Bull will be discussed vary fully in Commitee vital question hat undergone

sinking to imposs. The provisions of the Bill in that Arms and Ammunition Ordinance would have, millions sterling; also that the

the pastice and gave fand comes into operation in. that year, one or two remarks on the general purport of anoficial members. I do not took to shirk any to have been fully realised in some quer fazid comes into operation in that year. More until we arrive at that stage, but I will now pass bility for the proposed stop rests upon the Curioms service oculd be established. How extensive those powers were does not seem respect necessary have been made, as hon. mem. if we simply prohibited the practice and gave bars will see when we go into Committes, as no powers to prevent the sanggling. With over, vory for railways built have paid their one or two remarks on the general purport of anoficial members. I do not took to shirk inoffensive as it is posible for any such measures respect to the liquor law, the provision we working expenses in the Arst year, so that the Bill which I think I ought to make. The responsibility inbenut in our proposals, I wn to have been fully realised in some quar

must saticipate a farther sum on that to be. Of course, it is always diagreeable to have propose merely gives to the Magistrate power we must patio puto & farther sum on by this Council, and I sau sure will be apprednt responsibility and to disclaim any of the propoasis been established to be. Of course, it is hot, but the baggages is in suo a search warrustrate will have to be considerably increase

we must saticipate a farther sum on that romarice made by Your Excellency were welcomed only anxious to make clear the nature of that fors. Under them Customs stations could have that been established at every wharf in the harbour, it is always disagreeable to have propose morely gives to the the provision we working expenses in the first year, so that the Bill which to the general purport of anoficial membered stop roste upon the Customs service could be established lete

disagreeable to have proper information laid before him to have some six lakhs to meet for rail tion of increasing the lice

be apprent responsibility and to disclaims any of the proposals in your baggage searched, but the baggage is in on proper information laid before him to soconst. Therefore, at the end of 1911 we will

This constitutes a hove sms six lakhs to meet for railway ex-ed by the community at large. When the ques- of the Government which go further than the every bay in the coast line, and on every

oma ir lakhs to meet for motion in which I concurred. I am

rod leading into the Colony Passengers most cases not searched unless there in some issue a search warrant, reason to suppose that the person accompanying safeguard, as the Magistrate will have to bo penses, and if the duties derived from this Binition of increasing the licanos fees was raked recommendations

suppose that the pliable to duty eques & watched has always the search, you will agree

be held the baggage

gogy has in it articles a warrant

articles liable to duty satisfied with the information before he considerably incrasse in that year, when an we understood that you required a quarter of a loath to tread over ground so familiar to most landing from any steamer could have been

Infora meet for railway

efficient Of course, the man whose

this created and million, bat we understand now that after the of na, and so extensively wandered over this held up and arrested without warrant if been created The Hill, of course, dois contain, and must is

of this

open luggage at the bidding of contain, and would be no good unless it did can house is searched has always his remedy when existing stocks of liquor in the end of this year you will require a million, afternoon, bet for ay purpose I must sketch the they cbjected to

Any revenue officer, who under which these recom- been consumed, I think therefore, it is better rot to make two bites it a circumstances tain, porers which give to revenue officers the if there be no justification for the search, along right, should occasion arise, to see that the and the Bill provides compensation in oases you will agree with me that there is not too cherry but to go straight to your objed at mendations were made. They may be brief might be a Chinese talking no English. brief And not only could such an officor have 60 thaa: The Government, having held up any passenger landing, he would have

held up Government is not being defrauded of revenue where a search has been made and nothing largos margin to meet the increased cost due once. Both from your remarks, and the remarks ty stated than: The Gorerament, having from That is all we can say about those provisions has boon found to justify the search. But, to the undertaking of the railway. I have made by the hon. Attorney-General, it is very decided to raise revenue somehow say about those provisions. Sir, this principle is not new. Every Magis concurrence before any han, members who wish pected to be derived from this source will Discontent with

for the passenger the bo There is nothing offensive in them: they are the Sir, this principle is not new. Every Magis made those few remarks with your consent and interesting to note that it is anticipated the sale of intoxcating liquors, brings for been equally formidable when, after landing, the passenger might reasonably have imagined ordinary provisions found in every Bill which trate in the Colony has power to have the concurrence before any hon. members who wish that at lost half of the revenue ex-ward schema-sámittedly a faulty

house of any one sitting round this table searched speak have done so, because I think that in pected to be derived from this source will Discontent with it is widely expressed. The himself safe in the bosom of the Colony, Ao all probability, having cleared the fitanial be required to make up the deficiency caused unofficial members most to see if they can vording to Clause 31 in my version of the Bill,

compelled those

DAY

from

gale

Color

o

staff

have

us

محط

canani

we

Hoa. Mr. WII YU- Sir, I concur with the

to dissi-

one.

(Continued on page 5.)