Strongly against having two good establishments (vide his minute on Gov. For 77 156 1776) on economical grounds, and was of opinion that there was no use for the present jail if the prison were removed elsewhere, other than as a temporary lock-up. (See minutes on 79). M: Price Jov - 11215. 11215.79) seems to prove that it would be more economical to have one barracks and one prison, but, even if the cost of the latter were only for the sake of administration, there should be a regular convict prison, and that this prison being erected at Stone Cutters Island, the old Victoria jail should be disposed of except such portions as are necessary for the purpose. I cannot believe that it will be necessary to keep a prison capable of holding 200.
The question whether a new prison is wanted or not has, I presume, been thrashed out and settled before, although the unofficial members of the Legislative Council are constantly protesting against the outlay which will be involved in it. But it is still a question whether its completion should be delayed pending the completion of other works. The fact is that in Hong Kong, there has been a constant and unsuccessful attempt to carry out the required public works at the same moment, and they affect to have blocked one another. As it is, I do not hope that anything will be done till Sir J. Hennessy's term of government has expired.
If there were another governor, this letter might be sent for consideration without reserve. Under present circumstances, I would suggest that Sir J. Hennessy be told that Lord Kimberley has been decided in favour of a prison on Stone Cutters Island,