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provision exists for preserving the voluminous records kept
by his Department and the Colonial Secretary has called
attention to the fact that if a fire should break out in the
Government Offices at any time, the whole of the records
might be destroyed.
5.
In view of these facts, I directed the
Director of Public Works to consider the best means of provid-
ing additional accommodation for his own Staff and a fireproof
record room for the Colonial Secretary's Office.
6.
I annex a copy of his report on the
subject and copies of the plans which accompanied it, from which
you will observe that he estimates the cost at $15,700. This
expenditure will provide not only for the additional accommo-
dation specified but also for some desirable structural alter-
ations in the existing building. Both the Colonial Secretary
and Director of Public Works are satisfied that, if these
proposals are carried out, the immediate requirements as to
space will be met.
7.
I regret that it was not possible, owing
to the scheme not having been submitted to me earlier, to
make provision for the necessary expenditure in the Estimates
for next year. The work is undoubtedly a necessary and urgent
one and I shall therefore be glad if you will authorize the
expenditure and allow the work to be undertaken early next
year. I do not anticipate any reluctance on the part of the
Legislative Council to vote a supplementary sum for the
purpose.