§ 56. Mr. MANDERasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what recent 1830 information he has received from Hong Kong as to the progress made in the carrying out of the ordinance relating to mui-tsai in Hong Kong; how many inspectors have been appointed and whether steps have been taken to secure the compulsory registration of all adopted children in the colony; whether cases of ill-treatment and cruelty still come before the courts in Hong Kong and what penalties have been inflicted; and what provision is made for the care and control of the girls when freed, and if any steps are taken to find them suitable employment?
§ Captain AUSTIN HUDSON (Lord of the Treasury)The latest information available is contained in the Governor's despatch of the 4th of July, of which my right hon. Friend placed a copy in the Library. Registration applies only to girls who were formerly mui-tsai. Three full-time inspectors are employed for their supervision. Particulars of the prosecutions under the ordinance are given in the despatch; no case of ill-treatment of registered mui-tsai was reported. With regard to the last part of the question, I would again refer the hon. Member to the despatch, which gives particulars of the later history of the girls. As regards those who seek other employment in the colony, there are several benevolent institutions which help the Government in finding openings for them.
§ Captain HUDSONI will ask my right hon. Friend to let the hon. Gentleman know.