To
His Excellency Sir Matthew Nathan, K.C.M.G.,
Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the Colony
of Hongkong, &c., &c.
The humble petition of the undersigned
European members of the staff of the Harbour Department
praying for immediate relief in the matter of their
personal emoluments showeth:
That in January 1903, when the sterling salaries
scheme generally came into force, the average rate of
exchange for that month was 18.7d. to the dollar as
against 28.34d. for this month: in January 1903, £10
equalled $136.32 and $100 plus exchange compensation
totalled $189.47 whereas at the present time £10 equals
only $87.27 and $100 plus exchange compensation totals only
$130.90 meaning a decrease or reduction of over 44% in
either case.
That whilst in consequence of the continued rise
in exchange, petitioners' monthly income from the Govern-
ment is thus considerably less month by month, their house-
rent and the cost of most of the necessaries of life, such
as eggs, beef, &c., &c. are not reduced.
That having been placed in such a situation
and having no means of pecuniary assistance, petitioners
venture with due respect to solicit His Excellency to
give this, petitioners' prayer early consideration and to
take such steps as to His Excellency seem reasonable at an
early date.
And petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.
Victoria, Hongkong,
26th November, 1906.
(Here follow six signatures.)
Enclosure 6. A
C.O.
12193/532
RECEIVED 6 APR 07
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