office staff charges to $14,130. On the 1896 Estimates, the Inspector which at $1,346 was abolished; and the total staff charges became $12,846. Later on, the opportunity was taken to reduce the total staff charges. The First Clerk's salary became $11,694 and then $11,383.
I submit that in view of these substantial and continued reductions, the additional clerkship asked for may be granted. The salary of $180 is, however, the lowest figure possible, as the new clerk is to have some knowledge of English. It is moreover apparently the same salary as that drawn by the present shroff's assistant ($180 in the estimates for "incidental assistance to shroff").
I would, however, in sanctioning this, request that provision must be made in next year's Estimates, so that the new arrangement will take effect from Jan. 1st (it will not do to delay, as our despatch cannot be sent out till September), and add that the C. of S. presumes that the Governor is satisfied that this increase in the staff will adequately meet the requirements of the office for some time to come.
A. F. 27/2
7.148.
C.PL
because we inspectors in connection with the amendment of the Women and Girls Protection Ordinance,
Sir,
Enclosure 18th May, 1899.
No. 16017
Read 18 JUL
Government House, Hong Kong, 16th June, 1899.
I have the honour to transmit to you a copy of an application from the Acting Registrar-General for the appointment of a new Chinese clerk in his Department.
With reference to paragraph 7 of that application, Mr. Thomson, who in 1893 was Acting Registrar-General and whom I have consulted in regard to Mr. Brewin's recommendation, concurs that in view of the facts stated the appointment should be revived. I have therefore to recommend that an extra clerk be appointed at a salary of 15 dollars a month, in order to cope with the increased and probably increasing work of the office.
The Right Honourable
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your Most Obedient Humble Servant,
Harry Blake
GOVERNOR &c.
JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN, M.P.,
&c.
&c.
800.
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