17
417
The Hon. Mr. POLLOCK: I should like to assos ate hys if, Sr. with your re- ma ks. The un-liicial members have received ve y great ass stance in the pas from the Hon. Mr. Ho Fook who has done much useful work in the Council.
The Hon. Mr. LAU CHU PAR: In sup porting your remarks, Sir, and those of the Hon. Mr. Pollock, I should like to say that by the retirement of the Hon. Mr. Ho Fook I shall lose a conscientious, capable and sympathetic helper. I never thought that he would retire before the exp ration of his term of office, but it is some con o'at on to know that he retires with his vigour unimpared to enjoy the rest that he deserves after so many years of strenuous work in public affairs.
The Hon. Mr. Ho Fook: Sir, I am so deeply touched by the kind words which you have used in speaking of my retire- ment, that I do not really know how to express my thanks. Although I have had the honour of serving on this Council for only four years and a few weeks, it is now more than thi.ty years since I began to interest myself in public affairs of the Colony, and I feel that the time has come for me to retire and make room for a better man. I am ever grateful to you, Sir, and to my honourable colleagues for the kindness and courtesy which have always been shown to me, and it is with much regret that I am taking leave of the Council. I desire also to thank the Honourable Senior Unofficial Member and my Chinese colleague for their kind re- marks which are more than I deserve. In conclusion, I should like to mention that both my Chinese colleague and I have learnt from experience that, in all Govern- mental mates affecting the Chinese com- munity, the interests of that community would be best served by the two Chinese members approaching the officials quietly and tactfully instead of asking questions or proposing resolutions in the Council. Once more think you,
Sir. for your
generous remarks,
FINANCE COMMITTEE.
A meeting of the Finance Committen` followed, the COLONIAL SECRETARY presid- ing.
A GOVERNMENT HOUSE VOTE.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of $1,100 in aid of the following votes:
Governor, Other Charges:-
Furniture
Incidental expenses
Total
The CHAIRMAN:
$ 600.00 500.00
$1,100.00
This minute I held
over at the last meeting. The expendi- ture has been very carefully gone into. These amounts will be sufficient to the end of the year.
Approved.
PRAYA EAST RECLAMATION SCHEME.
The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of $27,465 on account of Public Works, Extraordinary, Hongkong, Praya Eas. Reclamation Scheme.
The CHAIRMAN: This minute was held over from the last meeting in order that the members of the Finance Committee might consider the policy to be adopted in this matter. It was a case of paying certain holders of marine rights. I think hon. members agree that the course pro- posed is the more practicable way.
Approved.
MOTOR CARS FOR USE OF OFFICERS. The Governor recommended the Council to vote a sum of $8,000 on account of Miscellaneous Services, Purchase of two motor cars for use of Departments in Kowloon and New Territory.