CO129-316 - Governor Sir Blake - 1903 [1-4] — Page 76

CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案 All

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benefitted; as there was no 'Assessor" in Singapore, and coo-

sequently no comparison of emoluments could be made. But in response to a special appeal I made, the salary of my Office was - revised, and an increase of $500 per annum granted from 1st.

January, 1900. Having completed the necessary service I am now

at my maximum $4,200. This is the only increment received by

me during the past 12 years.

6.

The Sterling Salary Scheme (C.0.0.171 of

1903) would, if accepted, involve an immediate loss of $30 per annum, besides a large reduction in leave pay and Pension.

Since my appointment the Rateable Value

of the Colony has been increased from $2,282,879 to $8,167,839 (on 1st. July, 1902). The Revenue from Eates has advanced from $374,857.75 in 1889 to 1996,990.25 in 1901, and the collection this year exceeds that of 1901 by $160,000. The work of my Sub- Department has grown considerably since my appointment. It continues to increase and will do so as the erection of new buildings in Victoria, Kowloon Point, Yaumati, Hunghon, Mong- koktsui &c., plainly indicate. Then there is the Assessment of a portion of the New Territory, acquired long after my ap- pointment, which also devolves upon me. I may also observe, although aware that the whole time of Officials is at the disposal of Government, that it cannot have been intended that I should have to frequently work late at night, and on Sundays and Holidays in order to overtake my duties.

8.

In asking for a liberal recognition of ny long service here, I would also urge the arduous sature of my duties, necessitating the spending of a large portion of my time in the Streets, Slums and Villages, exposed to all weathers and other risks. It is only a strong constitution that has enabled me to keep at my post so long without a

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