Sessional_Paper_1884 — Page 108

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Mr. P. RYRIE-A good deal of it comes in in large cargoes from Saigon. There are godowns filled with it.

26.-Your previous answer then refers to suspected smugglers?

A. Yes.

27.—Is there a record of the armament of all junks anchoring in and clearing from the waters of the Colony?

A. Yes, supposing they all report themselves at the office.

28.-When a vessel clears, she gives all particulars of her armament; she is required to do so by law?

A. Yes: under Ordinance 8 of 1879, they give particulars of their cargo and

armament.

29. As to anchorage passes?

A.-Within the waters of the Colony all vessels get anchorage passes, except those with special licences.

30.-Is there a record of the armament of those with anchorage passes?

A.-Every Chinese vessel that gets an anchorage pass gets a clearance, and every vessel which clears reports her armament, except those specially licensed, and those that are specially licensed have their armament recorded, if they have any.

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31.—What is the limit of time that vessels can be in the waters of the Colony with- out getting an anchorage pass, according to law?

A.-Eighteen hours, except in the case of vessels having a special licence.

32.-Referring to Ordinances 2 of 1868, perpetuated by 2 of 1870, relative to the disarmament of junks, have the provisions of that Ordinance been carried out?

A.-Never. Regulations were issued under it, which were not acted upon. This Ordinance has never been repealed. We interfere with the armament of junks as regards stink-pots, which are not allowed to be carried.

33.-Can you give a return from 1866 to 1877 similar to that you have already furnished from 1877 to 1882?

A.-I can, and have done so.

34.-Do all junks require to declare their cargoes?

A. Yes. In Ordinance 8 of 1879, section 38, sub-section 16, they also declare on arrival.

35.-Would they declare opium and salt?

A. They are supposed to do so. As a rule I think they do not declare such articles, as they are afraid there are people hanging about the office ready to convey information to the Customs people.

36.—Are clearances granted to vessels with salt on board?

A.-Yes; this is a free port; we will clear ships with any kind of cargo. As a general rule all Chinese sea-going vessels are armed for the purpose of protecting themselves against pirates.

See post page 92.