Sessional_Paper_1903 — Page 262

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The present reported passenger traffic between Hongkong and Kowloon is not less than 6,000,000 annually, which, I suggest, would be increased 50% by the facilities offered by the bridge to the increased population of Kowloon and the New Territory, for, once the bridge is decided on, the other side of the Harbour will begin to increase, and the development will go on side by side with the construction of the bridge. Assuming, then, 9,000,000 passengers annually, and further assum- ing 25° of them to be of a class capable of paying a very modest toll of 5 cents and the remaining 75% to be coolies at 1 cent, this would give an annual income from the bridge toll of $180,000, which will be 2 on the suggested cost of $9,000,000. In addition, there would be a toll on vehicles, animals, etc., the value of which cannot now be estimated, but would be considerable.

I un not prejudiced, possibly other means are forthcoming for securing the desired end. A tunnel has been suggested, and no doubt offers some advanta- ges not possessed by my scheme, but after consideration I am still in favour of the bridge. However, whether the means adopted be bridge, tunnel, or anything else, I submit confidently that easy communication must be had with the Kowloon side unless we are content to spoil our natural harbour, while leaving Kowloon and the New Territory undeveloped.

IMPORT AND EXPORT (OPIUM) OFFICE.

24. The Return shows that during the year the amount of Opium reported was as follows:

1901. Chests.

1902. Chests.

Increase. Decrease. Chests. Chests.

Imported,

+

42,314

43,781

1,467

Exported,

40,269

43,3481 3,079

Through Cargo report- ed but not landed,

12,150 13,483

1,333

Fourteen thousand three hundred and twenty-one (14,321) permits were issued from this Office during the year, being a decrease of 4, as compared with 1901.

A daily memo. of exports to Chinese ports was, during the year, supplied to the Commissioner of Imperial Maritime Customs, and a daily memo. of exports to Macao was supplied to the Superintendent of Raw Opium Department of Macao.

Surprise visits were paid to 103 godowns during the year.

I have the honour to be,

The Honourable F. H. MAY, C.M.G.,

Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

Colonial Secretary,

etc.,

etc.,

etc.

R. MURRAY RUMSEY, Ret. Com.. R.N.,

Harbour Master, etc.