HC Deb 28 January 1931 vol 247 c959
38. Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what was the number of mui-tsai registered in Hong Kong at the latest date for which figures are available, and what increase, if any, this represents upon the number given in the Governor of Hong Kong's last despatch?

Dr. SHIELS

The number of mui-tsai registered in Hong Kong at the latest date for which figures are available, 30th November, 1930, was 4,117. This represents a decrease of 66 upon the number given in the Governor of Hong Kong's previous despatch. It is believed that the aggregate number of young women of this class is steadily declining.

Viscountess ASTOR

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that all that can be done is being done?

Dr. SHIELS

Yes, the results have been even more satisfactory than were anticipated, and I believe that the response of the local community to the regulations is very good.

Mr. WHITE

Has the hon. Gentleman received any further information since the Governor's despatch?

Dr. SHIELS

The figures I have given have been received since the Governor's despatch, but there is nothing since those figures.