Sessional_Paper_1901 — Page 972

967

No. 1901

50

No. 454.

SIR,

HONGKONG.

KOWLOON WATERWORKS GRAVITATION SCHEME.

Laid before the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Governor,

Governor to Secretary of State,

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 31st October, 1901.

In continuation of my despatch No. 325 of the 23rd of last August, I have the honour to transmit for your consideration the enclosed copy of letter from the Acting Director of Public Works, submitting a complete estimate of the cost of the new Kowloon Waterworks Gravitation Scheme, and to recommend for your approval the improved scheme which seems absolutely necessary if a proper water supply for Kowloon is to be secured.

2. In the Estimates for 1902 a sum of $60,000 has been inserted for this purpose, and a sum of $100,000 has been placed in the Estimates of this year: but, as the latter sum has scarcely been drawn upon, there will be available for 1902 a sum of about $160,000.

3. Mr. CHATHAM estimates that a sum of $200,000 a year will be required until the work is completed, as the Acting Director of Public Works hopes it may be in four years' time.

4. In view of the urgency of this matter, I shall be glad to learn by telegram whether you approve of the scheme now submitted.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient Servant,

The Right Honourable

J. CHAMBERLAIN, M.P.,

His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies.

HENRY A. BLAKE,

Governor.

(Enclosure.)

Acting Director of Public Works to Colonial Secretary.

No. 926.

SIR,

+

PUBLIC WORKS OFFICE, HONGKONG, 24th October, 1901.

I have the honour to report that Messrs. DENISON & RAM have now, in accordance with my request, submitted a complete estimate of the cost of the new Kowloon Waterworks Gravitation Scheme.

2. In forwarding to you their letter of the 14th instant, which contains the estimate referred to, I desire to point out the following essential points of difference