We cannot be exactly precarious, but told them to reduce the estimated expenditure and postpone public works; and the last return of Bank Balances GR43236/01 - shows an overdraft of $400,000.
Bubitt is a choice better fails, and probably for he will accept the new He secures If the O.A.N. however, to assume that the site now proposed will be the most convenient. The resolution framed by the Legislative Council in 1898 did not favour this crew; but I gather that the Council and the community were by no means unanimous.
AF12/2 should approve subject to anything Sir H. Blake may say, but in view of the immediate heavy outlay. I think we should approve this scheme. I suggest that other public works should, as far as practicable be postponed, & ask what other Public Offices besides the G.P.O. will be erected on the site. (see Resoln above refd to, which mentions Treasury).
GROg1972 is laying a site for the new Post Office. Mr. Chamberlain's approval is asked for spending $508,000 on a new Post Office, money to be eventually recouped by selling the Site of the existing Post Office. I have spoken to Sir H. Blake who strongly recommends the purchase. If it is approved, he will see the vendors, Jardine Matheson & Co, and arrange as to the purchase money. They may take it in instalments or may be content with interest until we have the capital sum available.
Approve by telegram & inform Sir H. Blake, authorising him to make recommendations as to the purchase money, which should be arranged for, if possible, without a C.P.L. loan.
The project has been under consideration since 1879/4 and it is clear that a new Post Office must be built and delay will probably only add to the cost.
Approve.
16/2.
14
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