21. Miscellaneous purchases were infinite in variety and were in respect of many sundries which were required from day to day by the various departments but which were not covered by contract. Requisitions were scrutinised for items which might appear extravagant or for which there was a suitable substitute in stock or in contract, such instances being reported to the requisitioning department. It was, in all cases, the practice to invite competitive quotations for all miscellaneous purchases.
22. The total value of stores purchased during the year was $3,660,614.93, as compared with $3,134,773.67 in 1938. Supplies were obtained from the following sources:-
(i) Crown Agents for the Colonies (excluding Allocated Stores)
(ii) Local.
* Includes special purchases.
23. 11,471 demands for stores were received from departments, being an increase of 3,033 demands compared with the year 1938.
24. 856 Bills of Lading and 675 Parcel Receipts were cleared during the year and 2,304 tons of stores were landed from ships and delivered to warehouses and consumers.
25. Claims made in respect of loss or damage to stores in transit amounted to $2,896.48 of which sum $2,404.41 was recovered during the financial year. The balance outstanding has been accepted for settlement in next year's account.
26. The headquarters staff occupied temporary premises at Wanchai throughout the year. Stores were accommodated at the Main Store at Bullock Lane and at the Branch Stores at Arsenal Street, Hung Hom, and also from September, 1939, at Yaumati Slipway which was taken over from the Harbour Department.
27. The stores held on charge by the Department were surveyed by a Board appointed by Government and the stocks were reported to be correct and in good order.
28. The accounts have been audited continuously throughout the year by the Audit Department.