CO129-294 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [10-12] — Page 532

COPY

Enclosure 1.

C.O.

529

942

RECO Rest & JAN A

REPORT.

6 Clerks, commencing at $480, increasing $60 annually to $720.

1 Correspondence Clerk, commencing at $960, increasing $60 annually to $1,200. (must be a capable typewriter).

On the 13th April last, a report was furnished showing the necessity for seven additional clerks, six in the General Office, and one in the Registration Department, and the importance of two new officers, to wit Boarding Officers. A large increase in the Chinese staff was also required. These recommendations have received the sanction of the Right Honourable the Secretary of State, and are to take effect from the 1st January next.

In May last, statistics taken showed an increase in correspondence with the United Kingdom of 40% in letters and 27% in papers. The introduction of petty postage has undoubtedly largely increased the mass of mail matter with places other than the United Kingdom included in the scheme, and there is no reason, judging by the sale of stamps, to anticipate any diminution of correspondence with Foreign countries and other Colonies; until, however, the statistics taken in October are complete (returns from abroad received), actual figures cannot be given.

Of the six additional clerks over and above those to be taken on in January next, now recommended, four should be for the General Office and two for the Registration Department.