Q.-A great many
A. Yes.
( 49 )
cases ?
Q. They have been more frequent lately?.
A.-I have no returns.
The CHAIRMAN.-Here is a return furnished by the Magistrates.
*
Honourable T. H. WHITEHEAD.-Do you think that the cases could have been equally well done by the Police?
A. Quite as effectively. What is there in kidnapping beyond the competency of the Police to tackle?
Q.-Only the fact that the Pó Léung Kuk exists brings it about that the cases are brought up by the Pó Léung Kuk instead of the Police ?
A. I think so.
The CHAIRMAN. Have there been more cases lately than formerly?
A.—I am unable to say, but I am willing to take this return.
Q.-This return shows a very large increase at any rate in 1891. No less than 117 cases were recorded in that year.
A.—As against?
Q.-As against 46 in the previous year and 95 in the year before that.
Honourable F. H. MAY.-Do you think, Mr. WODEHOUSE, that it would be possible to associate the Captain Superintendent of Police with the Pó Léung Kuk, and put him on the Committee ?
A. I do not think so.
Q.-I mean so that the Police might have the co-operation of the Pó Léung Kuk in getting information, but leaving the actual discharge of the Police duties to the Police.
A. I am of opinion that the Police are perfectly competent to deal with this matter themselves and there is no necessity for an outside institution like the Pó Léung Kuk.
Q-Except in so far as...
A. As their charitable functions are concerned.
Honourable C. P. CHATER. You mean in dealing with women after they are rescued?
A. Yes.
Q.-Finding a home for them?
A. Yes; regarding which I express no opinion.
The CHAIRMAN.-You have your opinion?
A. I express none.
Honourable T. H. WHITEHEAD.-This division of responsibility at present between the Pó Leung Kuk and the Police, you think, tends to make the Police more remiss?
A.-I certainly think so.
Q-And that in consequence the detectives of the Pó Léung Kuk have greater opportunities for improper dealings than they otherwise would have for instance squeezing?
A.--I am not sure of that-I am not sure that they have greater opportunities than they otherwise would have.
* See Appendix 31.
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