minute of 19th instant (C.1.6.1955), and C... Despatch 11: 68 of 1890, forwarding a letter from John Coon to the Crown Agents dated 31st March list giving estimate of Plant required for the Praya works.
In my report of 24th ultimo I have dealt at length with that portion of Sir Arthur Corde's report which treats of details of construction. I now propose to consider the very important observations contained in the latter part of that report which deals with the questions raised in my report of 7th January last (C.2.C.94) i.e.
1. Is it advisable to let the works in one or more large contracts to skilled English contractors, or to continue the system which has hitherto prevailed in Hong Kong of letting the work in small contracts to Chinese Contractors?
2. Shall the work be carried out by Chinese methods with little or no Plant and machinery as has hitherto been the practice on similar works in Hong Kong, or shall improved modern machinery and Plant be introduced, and the Chinese be trained by English Engineers to methods more in accordance with modern European practice? Sir John Coode is of opinion that English contractors could not be induced to tender unless all expenses were guaranteed. I may mention however that an English firm in large practice requested...