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6.
It will also be necessary to rent premises as
offices; provision has been made accordingly in the estimate. The question of erecting permanent offices is one which demands further
consideration and will depend largely on the future opium policy of
the Government. The only other item in the estimate to which I
need draw special attention is the provision of an extra steam
-launch which may be necessary for the prevention of smuggling
into the Colony. It is not proposed to establish the launch at the beginning. The Opium Farmer has not got one.
7.
I enclose also an estimate of the estimated
revenue from the sale of prepared opium. In this estimate the monthly consumption is calculated at 40 chests per month. A reduction in consumption is anticipated owing partly to the restrictions contained in the recent Opium Amendment Ordinance including the wider definition of Opium Divan which has already led to an increased number of prosecutions and partly to the stringent measures taken in China to repress opium smoking. The sale of dross opium is not included as I have not yet been able to determine finally whether dross opium should be sold.
It will be observed that the revenue from
opium is estimated to exceed the additional recurrent expenditure
by $1,727,500.
8.
Regarding the method of purchasing Raw Opium
I am addressing the Indian Government to ascertain on what terus they could supply opium to this Government during the year 1914. Failing that source I will suggest to you that it be purchased through Messrs. D. Sassoon and Company on terms to be arranged.
9.
I should be glad to learn whether you approve
the proposals and estimate contained in this Despatch.
н
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
Акад
Governor,&c..