No. 4
720.9
148
Hon. Colonial Secretary,
I attach a scheme shewing certain new appointments which I consider absolutely necessary and also such alterations in the present salaries and increments as I think should induce clerks to continue here after they have become useful.
I have included some changes and additions for Shanghai asked for by the Postmaster, which I have not had time to report separately.
I would urge that the increments be made annually instead of biennially. Clerks in other Departments object to taking up appointments in the General Post Office on the grounds of the unpleasant nature of the work and the irregular hours and some steps should be taken to improve the position of Post Office employees.
The system suggested by His Excellency of 3 year agreements after a long probation should have a good effect.
16th June, 1904.
(Sgd.) L. A. M. Johnston, Postmaster-General.