..
almost a similar sum.
455
The only item of revenue, on which special
remarks beyond the explanatory foot-notes appear to be necessary, is the $102,000 for "Light Dues, Special Assessment". This special levy was sanctioned in order to finance the construction of the Typhoon Refuge. It was arranged that half of the cost was to be charged to it, and half to general revenue. This work has now been completed at a cost, to date, of $2,161,600; and a further sum of 830,000 has been provided under "Public Works Extraordinary" for the payment of the retention money on the contract, and for sundry other items, thus bringing the total expenditure to about $2,191,600. The amount payable out of the Special Assessment should therefore be $1,095,800, but it is estimated that by the end of 1916 only 8787,715 will have been so charged, leaving a balance of $308,085 to be paid in subsequent years.
6.
The estimated expenditure for next year is $11,882,774 which is 8603,997 less than that approved for the current year. The foot-notes and Appendix III to the Estimates explain every item of an unusual nature comprised therein both under Personal Emoluments and Other Charges.
7.
The rate of exchange for sterling expenditure has, on the advice of the Treasurer after consultation with the Chief Manager of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, been fixed at ls. 9d. to the dollar.
8.
Additions to the Establishment of the Colony which have been included in the Estimates in anticipation of
your approval are as follows:-
Harbour Master's Department;-
-
A. Harbour Office.
1 5th. Grade Telephone Clerk (services retained
permanently).
1 5th. Grade Interpreter at Outstation (promoted
from 6th. Grade).
Importa