CO129-464 - Public Offices - 1920 — Page 57

M.43496.

51901

Admiralty Sust

REC

55

20th October, 14 20.

REG 21 OCT 20

For 69845

Sir,

With reference to Decision No.3 of the Imperial Communications Committee in connection with the inspection and repair of wireless apparatus on Board Merchant Ships abroad, I am commanded by My Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to acquaint you that the repair of wireless apparatus on board Merchant Ships at Hong Kong is still being carried out by Naval ratings who are being paid an allowance by the Admiralty for the purpose. The Commander- in-Chief, China Station, has asked whether this arrangement might be extended to other places on the Station.

2.-

As Their Lordships have already pointed

out the employment of Naval ratings for doing work of private firms is open to objection. The Commander- in-Chief, China Station, has accordingly been informed that the system is not to be extended beyond Hong Kong.

3.-

As regards the work at Hong Kong I am · to enquire whether any steps can be taken to relieve the Navy of this work.

4.

It is observed that the Karconi Company has established depots and inspecting stations for ships fitted with Maréoni apparatus in various ports of the world but not on the China Station. It is suggested that the Marconi Company might be approached as to the provision of similar facilities on the China Station also, although this measure will be open to objection that it will not allow for ships fitted by other Companies.

5.-

Pending a settlement of the matter I am to enquire whether the Imperial Communications Committee consider that the Government of Hong Kong should be asked to bear the expense of the special allowances to naval ratings employed on this work at Hong Kong.

I am, Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

Si

VA EADDALSZY,

The Secretary,

Imperial Communications Committee,

(7393).