CO129-587-17 Botanical and Forestry Department- proposed formation of agricultural section 22-8-1940 - 22-8-1940 — Page 5

No. 367.

54066/40

5

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My Lord,

RECEIVED

4 OCT 1940 C. O. REGY

GOVERNMENT HOUSE,

HONG KONG.

22nd August, 1940.

I have the honour to forward for Your Lordship's consideration the accompanying report submitted in 1938 by the Superintendent, Botanical and Forestry Department on the proposed formation of an agricultural section of his Department to deal more fully with local agriculture.

Consideration of this report was held up

2.

pending detailed enquiry into the agricultural possibilities of the New Territories and in existing circumstances I find it impossible to recommend any immediate expansion on the lines suggested. Sir Geoffry Northcote before he left was inclined to alter the title of Superintendent, Botanical and Foresty Department to that of "Superintenden of the Agricultural and Forestry Department", but I feel that even such a formality would be unsubstantial until the question of furnishing the additional staff etc. required can be fully considered in some future annual Estimates.

3.

The matter will not be lost sight of so soon as some approach to normal conditions seems likely.

I have the honour to be,

My Lord,

Your Lordship's most obedient, humble servant,

Buonon

Officer Administering

the Government.

THE RIGHT HONOURAB LE

LORD LLOYD OF DOLOBRAN,

&C.,

&C • 9

&C.