CO129-568-2 Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps- vacancy for Commandant 9-2-1938 - 6-12-1938 — Page 24

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would appear logical that he should be paid a salary equivalent

to the total emoluments and allowances which would be drawn

by a Lieutenant-Colonel stationed in the Colony. I

understand that the total pay of a Lieutenant-Colonel (married)

would be £1268 inclusive of rent allowance and I suggest

that an approximately corresponding figure should be adopted.

It appears desirable to fix the salary in sterling rather

than in dollars and possibly a fixed salary of £1250 would

be sufficient. I should, however, be glad to leave in your

discretion the exact figure, having regard to the status of

the officer proposed and to the practice in other Colonies

where a Regular Army Commandant is employed.

4. I am aware that the Army Council when approached on

this subject had expressed the view that a prior charge on

such funds as are available should be an assumption by the Colonial Administration of full responsibility for the pay and

allowances of the Adjutant of the Defence Corps. I feel

strongly however that the existing arrangement of a whole-time

Commandant with Regular Army experience is essential to the

efficiency of the Corps and, in view of the urgency indicated

above, I trust that the appointment now asked for may be made

irrespective of a decision as to the status of the Adjutant.

5. If this is accepted, the question of whether the Defence Corps as now constituted would justify the expense

of two full-time officers could be further considered in

deference to the views expressed by the Army Council.

The.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

1. htt. korthet

Governor.