-་་
N°
312.
C.O
41191
213
GOVERNMENT HOUSE.
HONGKONG. 4th September, 1914.
sir,
I have the honour to transmit for your considerat-
ion the enclosed copy of a memorandum by kir. Churchill, the Director of Public Works, on the Government telephone system, in which he points out the many defects of the present service, and submits a comprehensive scheme of re-organization.
2.
I thoroughly endorse Mr. Churchill's criticism of the existing system, and I have no hesitation in recommending the: adoption of the scheme he proposes, which will, I am satisfied, not only provide a more up-to-date and efficient service but also
prove an economy.
3.
The initial expenditure required for the new installation is estimated at $21,000, but the subsequent saving to the Government on maintenance and operating expenses is
estimated at 83,040 per annum.
4.
I propose, subject to your approval, to undertake the work in sections, and to provide the sum of $10,000 in next year's estimates for the fitting up of the exchange and the com- pletion of the more important sections.
I have the honour to be,
sir.
Your most obedient,
humble servant,
HE RIGHT HONOURABLE
LEWIS HARCOURT, M.P.
&C..
&c.,
&c.
Governor,&c.