§ 11. Mr. LUNNasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the numbers of mui-tsai in Hongkong; whether registration of existing mui-tsai is properly carried out and the number of inspectors is sufficient for that purpose; and if he is satisfied that the law is not being evaded by the system of adoption of the young children who are being imported?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe number of mui-tsai still remaining on the register on the 30th November last was 2,749. The reply to the other parts of the question is in the affirmative. As the hon. Member may be aware, I receive half-yearly progress reports from the Governor in regard to this question, and copies of these reports are placed, on receipt, in the Library of the House.
§ Mr. LUNNIs it not a fact that many children are being imported into Hong-kong, and are being adopted by people in order to evade the conditions which are laid down?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERNo, Sir, certainly not. If the hon. Gentleman will read the reports which come regularly from the Governor, he will see how very satisfactory the arrangements are that are now in force. I hope that he will not make adverse comments upon the very successful progress of operations until he has made himself acquainted with the facts.
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERIf the hon. Gentleman will read the reports of what is happening on the spot and what are the facts, I am sure that he will join with me in satisfaction at the admirable progress that has been made.