27
Enclosure 8.
Gov
8.
The one exception is in the case of the increases in the personnel of the Fire Brigade. As a result of the disastrous fire which occurred at the Hong Kong Hotel on New Year's day of this year, I appointed a committee to consider suggestions for the improvement of the fire fighting organisation of the Colony. A copy of the report of the committee is enclosed. The actual increases which after consultation with the Chief Officer, Fire Brigade,
I authorised for inclusion in the Estimates are shown on
pages 32 and 33 of the Estimates.
a.
The main reduction in expenditure is due to the large decrease under Public Works Extraordinary; for, whilst it is possible to postpone new works, the ordinary routine administration of the Colony must go on, and any large reduction in staff or funds for administrative
services would only impair efficiency. Should there be a
return to prosperity later in the year 1927, the question of applying for supplementary votes to finance further
public works will have to be considered.
10.
Your despatch No.306 of 14th September, 1926,
on the subject of the contribution of this Government to the
Imperial Institute was not received in time for the necessary alteration in this vote, shown on page 95 Head 34, Subhead 18, from £500 to £300 to be made. I shall be glad if the Crown Agents may be instructed to pay £300 only in respect
of the year 1927.
11.
In view of the fact that time will not admit of a reply by despatch before the end of the year, I shall be glad if your decision regarding the Estimates of Expenditure can be conveyed to me by telegraph.
I have the honour to be,
Sir
Your most obedient humble servant,
governor, &0.
ej
Page 30Page 31