§ MR. ANDERSONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, If it be the fact that Sir John Smale, the Chief Justice of Hong Kong, has declared that a system of slavery has grown up there and has been tolerated under British rule, while contrary to British Law; and what steps Government has taken, or proposes taking, to deal with the evil?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHSir, I learn from the Hong Kong Press that Sir John Smale has on two occasions made some remarks from the Bench on the existence and increase of a system of domestic servitude among the Chinese of Hong Kong which is contrary to the law of the Colony. I only learnt this from the newspapers, as the learned Chief Justice did not think it necessary to bring his remarks officially under my notice. He very properly stated his intention to punish severely any offences against the law that might be brought before him. I am quite satisfied that Mr. Pope Hennessy, the Governor of Hong Kong, will take any steps that may be required on the part of the Colonial Government, and I do not see that any action on our part is necessary. But, of course, I shall readily consider any suggestions that may be made to me on the subject.
§ MR. ANDERSONasked if the Government would not communicate with the Governor of Hong Kong on the subject?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHI am expecting a despatch on the subject.