10.
1927 and 1928. The expenditure for 1927 was under $3,000,000 and it is estimated that in 1928 it vill reach $2,271,000 only. These to tals are a very greet reduction on those expended on Public Works Extra- ordinary in the days before the depression of trade, and it may be a long time before we shall readi again times so prosperous as to enable the Colony to return to that high standard of expenditure. It is felt horever that matters are sufficiently improved to justify the beginning of an attempt to make up leeway and assistance for the revenue from available surplus balances has been invoked.
In making a selection of the works to be done the Government necessarily gave first place to works already in progress. They become unavoidable commitments and they are clearly indicated in the tabular statement appearing in the Estimates.
In this category is to be included the money recommended for the extension of the Peak Wireless Station. The Council during the course of the current year has already voted large sums for the development of radio, recognising the essential nature of the development and the importance of keeping in step with the times. It was explained, at the time that the money which could be expended this year was asked for, that these further sums would be consequently necessary in 1929.
The second principle adopted in quid ing Government's choice as to select a number of small works, such as bath houses and latrines, the require- ments of the Sanitary Department, which are easily
over looked
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