ENG-1965 — Page 226

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Communications

TODAY as always Hong Kong relies upon an efficient system of communications. When the Colony lived largely by entrepôt trade, its position on the China Coast was of the greatest importance. In the changing conditions of today, when the emphasis is on industrial production and exports, that position is still of vital importance.

The Port of Victoria is a fine natural harbour possessing all the facilities required by modern ship operators. Berths at government buoys and at private wharves and piers permit a continual flow of ocean and coastal shipping to pass through the port with a minimum of delay. Modern cargo handling equipment ensures the rapid turn-round vital to shipping economy. Chinese crews have an excellent reputation for hard work and ability, and may be engaged for an entire ship or for individual shipboard departments. All the ancillary services essential to the efficient day-to-day running of a ship can be readily provided by ship contractors, repairers and chandlers specializing in maintenance and painting, victualling, watering and refuelling.

The Director of Marine is responsible for the control of the ports of the Colony. The Marine Department co-operates closely with shipping and commercial interests through the Port Committee and the Port Executive Committee to ensure that port facilities and services keep pace with the ever-changing needs of Hong Kong and of the shipping companies. The Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Ordinance 1965 came into force in November.

Comprehensive navigational aids cover the harbour and ap- proaches, allowing entry to the port by day or by night in all weathers. Additions and alterations are under constant review by the Marine Department. The depth in the eastern approaches is 36 feet through Lei Yue Mun. In the west the depth is 28 feet through Sulphur Channel or south of Stonecutters Island. Although pilotage is not