140
Assistant Registrar General.
(12)
The difference is small, and there is no reason why the small increase should be withheld.
The pay was not raised in 1891.
Harbour Master and Assistant Harbour Master.
These Officers draw rather inore than the Officers in Singapore.
It might be urged that this is a much larger port with many more duties to perform.
Superintendent, Botanical and Afforestation Department.
It is probable that the work in Singapore is much larger, but, on the other hand, no doubt Government will do something in the way of afforestation in Sun On.
Registrar, Supreme Court.
I should say that the salaries might be equalised on opportunity.
Deputy Registrar,
Same as above.
Attorney General.
Same as above.
Inspector of Schools.
Same as above.
Principal Civil Medical Officer.
The salary here appears rather small. The remarks in case of Treasury might apply.
Captain Superintendent of Police.
This Officer performs more duties than the Officer in Singapore-Gaol especially.
In view of the amalgamation, I am of opinion that the office is not sufficiently paid, and that therefore it could not be reduced on opportunity.
As regards Inspectors, &c., living expenses, &c. are greater in Hongkong and therefore I should think that a small difference for the better could not be disallowed.
Deputy Superintendent of Police.
Same remarks as in case of Captain Superintendent of Police.
According to your list, the increases, if carried out in the case of the offices named herein, would amount altogether to $21,090, but if the $6,000 for Registrar
General is left out the sum comes to only $15,090.
If savings were made on the other departments (though I have pointed out objections to such course) these would come to over $5,000 without consideration of the Botanical and Afforestation Departinent.
The total increase would, therefore, be about $10,000.
This is such a paltry sum that no one can have the slightest hesitation in affirming that the finances of the Colony are in a position even now to justify the increased expenditure.
A. M. THOMSON,
Acting Treasurer.
20th March, 1899.