HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
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agreement between the two sections of the Kowloon-Canton Railway was such that no claim for damages could be sustained against the Chinese section. We suggested that the claim might be made against the Japanese Government and a copy was sent to Tokyo. That claim was for $18,000. There was a further claim on January 7th for $7,000 which includes this item. This is a re-vote of part of the second claim.
Item 199.-29, Charitable Services: 4, Alice Memorial and Affiliated Hospitals, $33,000.
HON. DR. LI.-I understand this is a deserving cause. Is there any time limit on the obligation?
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY.-I do not think there was any time limit originally. We pay up to $50,000. The matter has been under discussion with the Hospitals.
THE CHAIRMAN. I think it says clearly that we agreed to pay up to $50,000 three years ago. This year we repeated the vote and they satisfied Government that $33,000 would be raised up to December, 1937, and that we pay dollar for dollar.
HON. DR. LI.-Then Government is still prepared to pay another $17,000 if that amount is raised by the Hospitals?
THE CHAIRMAN.-Yes.
Item 12-32, Public Works Department: Other Charges: 16, Upkeep and Running Expenses of Motor Lorries and Cars, $16,500.
HON. SIR HENRY POLLOCK.-I notice that this system has proved unsatisfactory.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY. It is an accounting change. Instead of being paid from personal emoluments it is paid through another vote.
HON. MR. PATERSON.-I suppose if you run over people then you are not liable?
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY.—We had not considered that. I don't think we should repudiate that. The new system gives us better control over the drivers.
Item 14.-34, Public Works Extraordinary:-Kowloon. Buildings. New Wireless Telegraph Station at Hung Hom, $50,000.
HON. SIR HENRY POLLOCK.—I would like some information on this. It was originally made a loan matter.
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