## BOTANICAL DEPARTMENT.
399
(1) Assistant, New Territory. The Secretary of State decided that the question of making this appointment should remain over pending the return of Mr. Ford from leave of absence in England. Mr. Ford now reports that an increase in the executive staff of his department will certainly be necessary and pending his further report the item has been retained. Further information is being obtained from the Indian service.
(2) On the 9th April 1901, the Acting Superintendent, Botanical and Afforestation Department reported that the increases of the wages of the subordinate staff in the attached schedule were necessary. His Excellency had called for the report in connection with the annual report for 1900 of the Botanical and Afforestation Department, from which it was evident better wages would be necessary if the Government was to have the assistance of properly qualified men.
(3) Maintenance of Botanic Gardens. The Acting Superintendent, Botanical and Afforestation Department has found that he has had to pay 40% more for constructive work and repairs and about 18% more for labour other than that of the regular Staff. The vote has been increased in view of these enhanced prices.
(4) Forestry, New Territory, $3,000. This figure has been slightly increased to provide for increase in the planting in the New Territory during 1902.
(5) Laying out Mountain Lodge Grounds. The Superintendent, Botanical and Afforestation Department anticipates that considerable progress can be done in this work during next year.
(6) Laying out Public Recreation Ground, Kowloon. A sum of $2,000 was voted last year to begin this park. A sum of $5,000 will be required for 1902 and it is anticipated that a still further vote will be necessary in 1903 to complete this work.