15
A
Titles.
I agree with Mr. Edmonds that
we can accept the proposed new titles without reference to the Board of Trade, but we might send them a copy of further correspondence, l.f. reference No.7 for information.
- *
Salaries.
I think we can now approve the
salary scales set out in the enclosure to No.8, subject to the modification of the salary
proposed for the Principal Surveyor of Ships
referred to in paragraph 2 of No.16 on 53723/39. + with the residential will
in ty c
as the No.16 m
Conversion.
3723134chan
I am disposed to think that
Hong Kong are being unduly generous.
Conversion
to the new conditions in toto would appear to offer sufficiently attractive terms. I attach
opposite a note showing the effect of applying the two methods. It will be seen that even when the new conditions as to rent are applied, there will be a substantial increase of emoluments, and that the diminution of pension prospects is very small (I understand that the loss would not in any case exceed £16 per annum). The immediate advantages are even more apparent in the lower ranges of the scale. Moreover, it is generally preferable to avoid creating a new category of officer, and the Surveyors of Ships can be differentiated from the Public Works Engineers dealt with at (b) on page 31 of the Anomalies Committee's Report enclosed with No.2 on 53723/38, since the former will be securing immediate and substantial cash advantages.
Unless