20 Jan 1941, Chronology of Events Related to Stanley Civilian Internment Camp
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The China Mail publishes a special number to celebrate the centenary of Hong Kong's status as a British colony.
'Centenary messages' are offered by a number of prominent citizens (page 22).
We owe it to those whose foresight first saw the possibilities of Hong Kong and its importance to the British Empire to see that their good work is carried on through the coming years. Only by the concerted efforts of all sections of the community can the next hundred years show greater progress.
For a hundred years Hong Kong has been the meeting place for two great and ancient civilisations. During that period their contact has served to spread knowledge which, if rightly used, can add immensely to the welfare and prosperity of all nations.
Is it too much to hope that the coming century will see East and West combine to discover and to teach one another how that knowledge can best attain its proper purpose?
Let us resolve to make the coming years of true progress and prosperity; to make Hong Kong a better place, to overcome the barriers of caste, prejudice and privilege, to abolish our slums and to establish justice, health, happiness and contentment for all in this beautiful colony.
North was Secretary for Chinese Affairs and MacGregor Chief Justice; both were to be future internees. Grayburn, head of the HKSBC, was to remain uninterned and lead efforts to raise money for the relief of the camps. Grayburn would not survive the war, and MacGregor not outlive it for long.
