PA 11382 do 464 this Department have been explained in Governor's Despatch No.122 of 26th May, 1899, in which the condition of the General Post Office was reported, and sanctioned by C.O. Despatch No.132 of 20th July, 1899. The chief alterations have been duly reported to the Secretary of State. They have all been found absolutely necessary in order to give to the Post Office that degree of efficiency which, in the case of a Department so closely in touch with the public, is so necessary. With regard to the item $3,840 as pay for extra work, see Governor's Despatch 258 of 8th September, 1899.
HARBOUR MASTER'S DEPARTMENT (a) The chief increase in the cost of this Department is owing to the augmentation of the Staff and to the additional expenditure involved in connection with the New Territory. This expenditure is principally made up as follows:-
Inspector of Junks at Shan-Shui-Po - $960
4 boatmen at Cheung-Chau Station, $84 each - 336
Coal Account, increase of $8,200 (p.26 note 2)
Steam Launches, increase of $11,788 (p.26 notes 1 & 2)
$21,284
(b)