Hong Kay
31147.
241
The Pach
DRAFT
7 Sept 1908.
I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22nd of August with regard to the proposed Typhoon Refuge at Heng Kong and to state that your representations have received His Lordship's careful consideration.
2. Lord Crewe regrets the necessity of incurring so large an expenditure but the Government of the Colony considers the work indispensable and His Lordship is not justified in rejecting their advice in a matter of such importance. The work will be carried out as economically as is consistent with efficiency and will be done under the best professional guidance.
3. As regards the increase in Light Dues, I am to point out that the general community is already paying for half the cost of the proposed work and it is not unfair to admit that shipping cannot, having regard to the present financial situation, fairly be expected to bear additional costs. His Lordship considers it unreasonable to levy a tax on shipping for improvements to the harbour which that shipping frequents, even though the particular improvement to be effected did not immediately benefit ocean-going steamers. In the present case, however, the Governor has...
MINUTE.
Mr. Stubbs 2/9
Mr. Just.
Mr. Antrobus.
Mr. Cox.
Sir C. Lucas.
Sir F. Hopwood,
Copy Gov 206. 1053/4
XCol. Seply. a. 75. Met Duos",
3.9.75.
The Earl of Crewe