§ MR. ALDERMAN COTTONasked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, If the Government are taking steps to prevent smuggling, which is now considerable, in the Straits Settlements; and, if he is aware that opium smuggling is on the increase?
§ MR. EVELYN ASHLEYThe Colonial Office have received information that with the opening of the year there was developed in Singapore an organized conspiracy, with some of the wealthiest Chinese at its head, for the 1633 smuggling of opium, and it was maintained by a system of terrorism. However, I am glad to say that the energetic action of the Governor and Executive Council in banishing from the Colony some of the chief ringleaders has brought about the complete collapse of the attempt.