§ Mr. McSHANEasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will consider, in regard to the regulations for mui-tsai in Hong Kong, the raising of the prescribed minimum rates of pay?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe prescribed minimum rates in the regulations for mui-tsai in Hong Kong were necessarily experimental, as no wages had been paid to these girls before. Since then the fall of the dollar has halved their sterling value. A recent investigation has shown that, in nearly every case, more than the prescribed minimum is being paid. My Noble Friend has thought it desirable, in all the circumstances, to consult the Governor of Hong Kong as to an increase in the prescribed minimum rates.