HC Deb 28 March 1922 vol 152 cc1119-21
25. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give the approximate number of mui tsai in the Colony of Hong Kong, including the British territory on the mainland, at the present time; and whether any steps are being taken to prevent or hinder their removal to other parts of China during the interval that will elapse between the Government's decision to abolish this form of slavery and its actually putting that decision into force?

Mr. WOOD

The number is between 8,000 and 9,000. My right hon. Friend has instructed the Governor to elaborate detailed arrangements necessary for carrying into effect the new policy in consultation with the societies concerned. The Governor will no doubt consider what steps can best be taken to prevent muitsai from being removed from the Colony against their own wishes and interests.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Would not it be much better if the Colonial Office instructed the Governor to see that the intention of the Government is not evaded by these girls being shipped off?

Mr. WOOD

That has already been done. I am afraid I did not make myself clear in my answer.

Lieut.-Colonel J. WARD

Will the hon. Gentleman instruct the Governor to consult with the Chinese Society for the Abolition of mui tsai, who will, no doubt, render any assistance that the Governor may want in this matter?

Mr. WOOD

Unless I am mistaken about the title of the society, that is one of the societies with which the Governor is already in consultation, but I will make sure.

Sir J. D. REES

Since the population of Hong Kong is almost entirely Chinese, is it possible to treat the matter in the manner suggested, and forbid the emigration of any members of that population?

Mr. WOOD

My hon. Friend knows that there is no question of forbidding voluntary emigration on the part of the Chinese population. What this question is directed to is a real possible evil which it is extremely desirable, if possible, to prevent.

29. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether adequate protection will be guaranteed by the local government to mui tsai girls who will be exposed to risks by the issue of the proposed proclamation?

Mr. WOOD

My right hon. Friend has instructed the Governor to take all possible steps, in conjunction with the voluntary societies, to meet the risks to which my hon. Friend refers.

Sir J. D. REES

Since concubinage is regarded in the East as a higher status than prostitution, is there not grave danger that this step, however well intended, may precipitate these girls from the higher to the lower plane?

Mr. WOOD

Obviously the Governor, who is conversant with the state of civilisation on the spot, will have all the relevant facts in his mind when he deals with the problem.

Sir J. D. REES

Is any pressure being put on the Governor, or is he acting on his own initiative?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Baronet had better read the statement made by the Colonial Secretary last week.