CO129-307 - Governor Sir Blake - 1901 [10-12] — Page 576

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provision exists for preserving the voluminous records kept

by his Department and the Colonial Secretary has called

attention to the fact that if a fire should break out in the

Government Offices at any time, the whole of the records

might be destroyed.

5.

In view of these facts, I directed the

Director of Public Works to consider the best means of provid-

ing additional accommodation for his own Staff and a fireproof

record room for the Colonial Secretary's Office.

6.

I annex a copy of his report on the

subject and copies of the plans which accompanied it, from which

you will observe that he estimates the cost at $15,700. This

expenditure will provide not only for the additional accommo-

dation specified but also for some desirable structural alter-

ations in the existing building. Both the Colonial Secretary

and Director of Public Works are satisfied that, if these

proposals are carried out, the immediate requirements as to

space will be met.

7.

I regret that it was not possible, owing

to the scheme not having been submitted to me earlier, to

make provision for the necessary expenditure in the Estimates

for next year. The work is undoubtedly a necessary and urgent

one and I shall therefore be glad if you will authorize the

expenditure and allow the work to be undertaken early next

year. I do not anticipate any reluctance on the part of the

Legislative Council to vote a supplementary sum for the

purpose.