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believe that, in spite of the obvious operational difficulties, there might be advantage in having a dozen or more small Police reception shops where reports could be made. A considerable increase in the collection points for revenue seems desirable to us and this is a matter which
is under discussion with the Accountant General.
22.
The securing of these offices has,
however, been the most difficult practical task under this heading. Only five offices are open at present, and although we can now almost see the
way through to the end, there have been difficulties
some of which I do not consider to be unavoidable.
It is not easy in these prosperous times to find well located shops at C.R. & V. prices and it is fortunate that we started looking while the property market was still dull. Other difficulties are caused by landlords. But some of our problems seemed to be caused by procedures drawn up, no. doubt, to protect the public interest but liable to frustrate an attempt to put through a quick" deal with a landlord who has several potential tenants interested. If other departments are to go into the shop renting business it would be wise to re-examine these procedures.
23.
The shops incorporate display windows and these have attracted a good deal of attention. D.I.S. has helped with the displays but with only half the offices open we are already beginning to stretch his resources. This problem we should be able to overcome ourselves as we gain more experience. It has occurred to us, in dealing with our own problems, that there is scope for fuller presenta- tion of the government in other locations. Post Offices in particular offer great possibilities; the blank wall of Kowloon Central Post Office seems to me to represent a missed opportunity
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