1029.
In any further correspondence on this subject, the above number should be quoted,
and
the communication should be addressed to
"The Comptroller and Auditor General,"
Sir,
EXCHEQUER AND AUDIT DEPARTMENT,
SOMERSET HOUSE,
LONDON, W.C.
359
12 October
1893. C. O.
17348
REC?
2
I am directed by the Comptroller and Auditor General to transmit to you, for the information of the Secretary of State, three Reports received from Mr Nicolle, the Local Auditor at Hong-Kong, dated respectively 29th May, 14th August, and 18th August 1893, on the subject of the Arrears of Village Rates and the leases proposed to be granted to "Squatters".
Sir,
With reference to the question of arrears, Charles Ryan would be glad to be informed whether, in the opinion of the Secretary of State, the covering sanction of his Lordship should not be given to the course adopted by the Governor in Council in writing off all arrears prior to 1890.
As
A point of some importance is raised by Mr Nicolle to the validity of the leases for 999 years proposed to be granted to "Squatters", who have proved their rights to the land occupied by them.
The approved form of the lease, it will be seen,
is at variance with the "Rating Ordinance", No. 15 of 1888.
It is a matter for the consideration of the
Secretary of State looking to legal requirements whether
it would not be desirable that the leases and the Ordinance
should be placed in agreement.
I am to request that the Reports, which are in original may be returned.
Honourable R.H.Meade C.B.
Colonial Office.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Millips