-19-
202
The total expenditure on the Head shows a
reduction of $3,173,313, mostly offset by the transfer of $2,625,000 to the Subventions Head.
Head 22. Miscellaneous Services.
Estimate 1949-50.
Revised Estimate 1948-49. Approved Estimate 1948-49. Actual Expenditure 1947-48.
$37,832,100
59,400,000
29,766,560
60,763,921
All items classified as subventions have been removed from this Head in accordance with a request made in last year's Budget Debate, but expenditure has increased by $8,065,540. The chicf item in this increase is an additional $5,500,000 for the new cost of living allowances which were introduced on the 1st January, 1949. In addition non-recurrent items totalling $3,550,000 are included. of this sum $2,400,000 is required to moet various charges and claims rising out of the period immediately following the occupation of the Colony. The sum of $750,000 is needed to continue the reinstatement of pre-war deposits which has been taking place during the last few months. The sum of $400,000 provided for occupation period salaries and ex-gratia rewards represents a re-vote of part of the supplementary provision of $9,000,000 voted during 1948 for this purpose but which cannot be disbursed for various reasons before the end of the current financial year. Provision of $1,250,000 for currency expenses is made to meet the cost of minting the new coins. One now sub-head entitled Public Services Commission's Expenses appears, and provision for $39,600 is mado. The Salaries Commission recommended the establishment of such a Commission and preliminary steps are being taken to e stablish it.
Head 23. Pensions.
Estimate 1949-50.
Revised Estimate 1948-49. Approved Estimate 1948-49. Actual Expenditure 1947-48.
$6,720,000
6,000,000
6,013,000
5,922,336
Of the increase of $707,000 under this Head $450,000 represents pensions, allowances and grants paid to members of the local volunteer forces under Royal Warrants. This is a now sub-head. Prior to the recent
settlement with His Majesty's Government all volunteer pensions were charged to a Suspense account. They are now a commitment on Hong Kong funds and adequate provision is made for them.
Head 24. Police Force
Estimato 1949-50.
Revised Estimate 1948-49.
Approved Estimate 1948-49. Actual Expenditure 1947-49.
$12,633,722
10,400,000
10,428,681
6,627,702
Considerable increases have been made in the
establishment of the Police Force with the result that personal emoluments are greater by $1,242,171 than in
1948-49. A new grade of Assistant Commissioner of Police