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Last year we sanctioned the engagement of 50 extra Constables, after the estimates had been closed, so that the increase under this head over the Estimate for 1904 is not so large as it would appear. Mr Wodehouse now tells me that at least 50 more men are wanted, as there are not enough constables to patrol the streets properly and there is no reserve for emergencies. Probably therefore we may expect a further large increase in the cost of this Department, before the end of the year.
Public Works Recurrent
The Governor appears to be correct in transferring the items specified in his despatch to Public Works Extraordinary.
Allowing for these transfers the Vote for recurrent works is about $17,000 over that for 1904, the increase being due largely to greater extent of roads, telegraphs &c. which require to be kept up.
Public Works Extraordinary
There are no new works of much importance. Item 4 was authorised years ago but not built. Item 12. The $10,000 of course bears no relation to the total cost of the work which will probably be very great, but the expense is unavoidable.
The Estimates generally appear to have been framed with every regard for economy and there is no item which could well be cut out.
Therefore if the Opium rent has to be reduced by any considerable amount there is no alternative to raising a loan.
? Acknowledge