CO129-587-1 Kai Tak- extension of aerodrome 29-12-1939 - 20-11-1940 — Page 38

50514/1/40.

2/38

EXTRACT FROM H.K HANŞARD REPORT

OF 7.12.39.

Item 283.-31, Public Works Extraordinary: Port Works—64, Repairs to decking of nullahs at Kai Tak, $750.

HON. SIR HENRY POLLOCK.-It says in the explanation, "Pending reconstruction, temporary shoring has been put in hand at an estimated cost of $7,500, and a supplementary vote for this amount is accordingly requested." I should like to know how much the reconstruction will cost.

THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS.-I am afraid it is a pretty big figure. I should say over one lakh and possibly more in years to come if the aerodrome is extended to carry planes of over 30 tons in weight. It is a very big problem.

HON. SIR HENRY POLLOCK.-How long have aircraft up to 12 tons been running?

THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS.-I am told the figure of 12 tons is slightly under-estimated. Actually, the French planes weigh as much as 14 tons.

HON. SIR HENRY POLLOCK.--Will this expenditure be sufficient to cover 14 tons?

THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS.—Yes, this expenditure is merely for a strip of the aerodrome which we have marked out.

All the votes were approved.