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Master wants a new steam launch, at $10,000, and so
These two, in does the Government Marine Surveyor.
addition to one authorised last year, are to replace
three existing launches, built in 1882 and 1884.
In the Botanical Department they have made provision for the Assistant in the New Territory asked for in 1898. Mr. Ford, on whose return, the matter was
to be reconsidered, thinks an increase staff "will certainly be necessary":
and the item has been retained pending further report.
The subordinate staff have had their wages increased, to encourage experienced
men to stay on.
I think this is a good thing.
There are three new special items: an experimental garden for the new territory, turfing around Police stations in the new territory, and electrically lighting the Botanical gardens which are to cost nearly $5,000 between them;
and there are other increases under "Other Charges". I should like to see these charges cut down.
The total increase in the expenditure of this Department is estimated at $13,300, or about 49%.
The Land Court, New Territory, is to cost $14,700 more. This is due to the increase in the demarcation staff working with the now increased survey staff. Two European demarcation officers are attached to the Land Court, one as Registrar.
The details as to their pay are not very clear.
The Medical Department vote has increased $16,500. This is due to additions to the staff and their salaries, and must, I think, be passed.
We have approved the increases in the staff and pay of the Indian Police, the result of which is to increase...