§ 20. Sir JOHN WARDLAW-MILNEasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that under the proposed Hong Kong Foreshore and Sea-Bed Works Bill power is given to the Government of Hong Kong to carry out reclamation schemes of an extensive nature; to erect piers which would compete with the berthing, loading and discharging facilities of existing private piers; to construct and maintain Government warehouses in competition with the existing private warehouse facilities; and to institute Government ferry services for vehicles and passengers, competing with existing private ferry services of this nature; and whether, in view of the fact that no public works of this nature are in contemplation by the Government of Hong Kong, he will give instructions that the present Bill be re-drafted so as to authorise the carrying out of public works of a minor nature only?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am aware of the provisions contained in the Bill. As my hon. Friend was informed on the 13th of July, I have not yet received from the Governor of Hong Kong any detailed proposals for works to be executed under it. The proposed scope and provisions of the Bill are under consideration.