CO129-413 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [8-10] — Page 215

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N°

312.

C.O

41191

213

GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

HONGKONG. 4th September, 1914.

sir,

I have the honour to transmit for your considerat-

ion the enclosed copy of a memorandum by kir. Churchill, the Director of Public Works, on the Government telephone system, in which he points out the many defects of the present service, and submits a comprehensive scheme of re-organization.

2.

I thoroughly endorse Mr. Churchill's criticism of the existing system, and I have no hesitation in recommending the: adoption of the scheme he proposes, which will, I am satisfied, not only provide a more up-to-date and efficient service but also

prove an economy.

3.

The initial expenditure required for the new installation is estimated at $21,000, but the subsequent saving to the Government on maintenance and operating expenses is

estimated at 83,040 per annum.

4.

I propose, subject to your approval, to undertake the work in sections, and to provide the sum of $10,000 in next year's estimates for the fitting up of the exchange and the com- pletion of the more important sections.

I have the honour to be,

sir.

Your most obedient,

humble servant,

HE RIGHT HONOURABLE

LEWIS HARCOURT, M.P.

&C..

&c.,

&c.

Governor,&c.