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I am prepared to recommend Lieutenant Mitchell for promotion to captain if his Excel- lency the G.O.C. thinks it advisable in a company only consisting at present of 18 men; he is in every way deserving of this recognition for all the good work he has done for his unit.
The regulations at present only allow of a lieutenant for "E" Company; but I should suggest that the promotion might be made, if possible, prior to new regulations being published. I hope to shortly recommend another member of the unit for a commission; but at present I do not see my way to get the 2 additional officers suggested.
4. Arrangements for Technical Instruction.
The suggestion that a drill shed should be put up at the expense of the Colonial Govern- ment in or near Kowloon West Battery, and fitted with dynamo, engine, and projector at the War Department expense is an excellent one, and in my opinion something of this sort must be done if more men are required; if it were done quickly I think there would be every possibility of obtaining more recruits and making the unit in every way more efficient and popular. The hours taken up for technical drills now are so long for volunteers who have already done a hard day's work that, naturally, there are only a few men who are prepared to give up their spare time in this way.
It would be of great benefit to the corps if this work could be sanctioned and put in hand at once, and so prevent further wastage, which may occur in this useful company if nothing is done.
I am sending in a letter with regard to the question of changing the field battery Maxim companies unit into garrison artillery, and in the C.R.A.'s letter therewith is a suggestion that each man should receive a bonus at the end of the year if efficient. I am strongly recommending this, and if it is sanctioned, I should wish the same conditions to apply to "E" Company in con- sideration of the value of their work in the defence of the Colony.
I have, &c
(Signed)
C. G. PRITCHARD, Major,
Commandant, H.K.V.C.
FRINTED AT THE FOREIGN OFFICE BY J. W. HARRISON.—30/3/1903.
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