Sessional_Paper_1938 — Page 11

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I. CURATOR.

He should be a young man of British nationality, enthusiastic, widely qualified, with specialist knowledge in one branch, artistic, capable of using his hands and willing to learn Chinese.

(a) Qualifications.

an honours degree of a British University, subjects studied to include at least two of the following :-

Zoology Botany

Archaeology

Anthropology

Geology

some other approved subject.

(ii) a diploma or certificate given by the Museums Association, this is only granted after an apprenticeship in a reputable museum has been completed to the satisfaction of the Museums Association.

The qualifications suggested above need not be rigidly enforced if a man with other qualifications and with high recommendations is available.

(b) Salary.

The salary must be sufficiently attractive to encourage the right type of ap- plicant for the post. The advice of the Museums Association should be taken on this

matter.

We consider that the absolute minimum commencing salary to be offered should be £450, exclusive of house allowance or house, in order to encourage the right type of applicant.

(c) Powers.

The Curator must be given the absolute power of refusal of gifts and loans. If this is not his then quantities of un-wanted material will accumulate. The Board of Directors might be called upon to give advice on acceptance or refusal of gifts or loans but the last word on refusal must be in the power of the Curator.

II. BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

(a) Personnel. The nominations of His Excellency the Governor.

On approval of the establishment of a Museum we suggest that a small Board of Directors be appointed and that representatives of the following bodies be invited to serve on this board.

The Hong Kong Government Education Department.

The Hong Kong University.

The Chamber of Commerce.

Botanical and Forestry Department.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

(b) Powers. To give advice on the upkeep, maintenance, general manage- ment, and finance of the Museum.

ΠΙ. III.

BUILDING.

Construction and Establishment.

1. It is highly desirable, though not essential, that the building should be air- conditioned throughout. If this is not practicable for reasons of cost, then perhaps one wing could be so constructed. In this wing natural history exhibits, books, paintings and other objects particularly susceptible to damp, could be housed. Such a wing would also be gas-proof and could be used as a temporary shelter in