CLOSED UNTIL
No. 82773
SUBJECT.
Hong Kong
Previous
Water Supply
Co129/533/4
92852/30.
Subsequent
92653/32
85065 780/13 5,000 7/48 N.M.Ltd.
1 IN TEL 26.
Approves. Generally
second section.
of the Thing Mun Valley Scheine, & urges early instaliation I plant-
42852/30
not clear. Presmally it means
tuck ML Gour les
advised generally
recons section.
extincte
кроли in favour of
да ит Кино
to be financed.
does int therefore kem pörselle
Opreend with the in indent
in 72852/30
to assume
not unless it is
that some scheme
the lines (whoses will so through.
indent mg
assumption is hossible the
be forwarder because
() it is my
a matter of
it seems to To access
uccessary
first-step Whatever modifications
are made in the
? Gelspess
G.C. Miles
We know the Gov. proposes to finance the scheme by raising a loan, or be boefer that C.P.AC. will assist eg. by faying interest on the loon during the construction period or in
some other way.
must avoid
committed piece-meal to a
scheme of this magnitude. Even if
Mr. Gourley has affroved the enginesing
aspects of the scheme, there is
important preliminary question as to
whether it is
really so urgent that it
must be undertaken at a time of revious
difficulty
in H. K. finances. Assuming
that is answered in the affirmative, there
we then important questions
thod of construction, engagement of Consulting Engineers, unsistance from Col. Devel. Fund etc. Alternative draft
herewith.
J.A. Calder
Yes. The financial position is
Exally serious
2. 30 for tel. No. 24
G.G. 29.1.71
30 Jan 31
3 Love Tel 32
urgently required, even of
will be necessary
of it is decided
not to proceed with second section
? In view of the Cast Sentence
fend the insent
b hown Agendă for
72854/30
G.C Miles
The extension of the filtration plant has always
hitherto been represented
item in the
second section of the main scheme, see-
72852/175.
enclosures to (20) and to (15) on 7285.
This telegram frements the matter in entirely different light, and in the cxxmmstances I think we may affare the expenditure of £ 3,000.
? Copy (2/4 (3) with indents to CA,
by we have done as
formation & inform your ly teley.
J. A. Calder
To CA (Mundant in 30 m 728537/380125).
+2/041.2 +3.
To fo- tal-No.33
DESTROYED UNDER STATUTE
18 FEB 1931
that the
Ins. a copy of Mor Gourley report.
with obsons.
Recommend
Consulting Engineers should be
with the dengn of
entrusted
and should
accept full responsibiltyg
for it's stability.
The report is
whole farewell
to Ms. Henderson's scheme, but in vivo o
sand the doubt expressed in
to the foundation caritimo oth propsand dam site, we cons дартный
pority appower the schem at proud.
My Handwom ustimato that My Jobs
wood constructin
works wats
рит put it
12 Dam and
subsidiary
ast $4750000. Du l.E
$8,000,000 for the dam
and $3500000 for the catchwaters
The supprotin thas M. Binnin
should visit
aufuum fume
as further repor
oft for coron 4/s.
I have somewhat amplified the draft. Mer feeston toace afterwards. J. A. Calder.
Sue Minut
f L. Gov. Conf (416
8 GoU TEL 105
the auti
xenel cos - 24.4.31 J-244-4.31
vised of
write to C.A. rf. NG,
I No. 7 af
ask them
Is avamp
Mr. Binic
To visit and repors, as suppsto in parn.
1/6/51 Palder
20 CA (M2708) -
5 JUN 1931
Витто со
arranging
ing to leave
_Marseille by the 5.5. " Waldera which
Coy (1) without endomeres +(10) to God. For inforhat,
11. Zo. O.A.C. Conf (u/ qu/o encls a c/10) 1.1. Jo. 7.31.
lo Biinie.
report by
dated Oct. 1931
13 Gov Conf
his reporti
by Mor Bunnie
that the work be
Recommends
Supervised by the consulting of the Cle would be glad of
as to the
form of agreement. Requesti
to the engurening
approval with
the schem
aspect of the
1ht. Gov. Conf
Reports, inter alia, on the propress of the second part of the shimme men water works scheme
15 To Gov. let. 125
182818/11)
100 87818/31)
Mr. Binnie's Report is satisfactory and
the Hong Kong Government is very anxious to
get approval for this scheme. Their financial
position has improved recently and I think we
sheabe now give approval to the engineering
aspects of the scheme.
As is clear from
paragraph 4 of the Governor's despatch,
the method of providing the funds required is
not yet settled, but it is practically certuin
that the Colonial Development Fund will be
asked to make a grant.
As regards the method of construction,
the Hong Kong Government now favours the
employment of a Resident Engineer supervised
by Consulting Engineers. I think that is
the best method for this scheme. See paragraphs
and 9 of the Crown agents' letter of 9th
April (No. 6). The Crown Agents should be
consulted before a final decision is reached and
communicated to either Hong Kong or Mr. Binnie.
Mr. Binnie is called to see Sir John
Shuckburgh on the31st.
J. A. Calder
22 · 12 ·31
e should presumably lay down that, for the present, there can be no prospect of financing this scheme by raising a loan in the country or by obtaining advances from the C.A. pending the raising of a loan. On this understanding, we might obtain the views of the .. on the
proposal that the engineering aspects of
the scheme can now be approved.
#Rlowell
As propond. Om litter to C. A. chold
halle clear the point at A.
Ichorld I glad
Had than then Lasers
back life Ice to Binine
31st dec.)
23/14/21 P.T.O.
16 to Cst. (Me 13 m/22032 end) - Caps
-12and_29 UE 1931
I saw Mr. Binne the
afternoon (with her lowell) & han
rerited separately
my conversaten
with hem. No actin necessary penting
серазрывну
refly from Crown agents. Putly.
31/12/31
In talder, W 19.12
Si Runell Scott has asked
to see to Binnie, who is just both
for Hongkong after a mint connected
with the water seeme
(Si R.S. Ap
that the Severn is anxeans that
in chould see m
he underlands
that the C. A.
(into areall)
I with sel
I han said that
21 Dec. at 3.30 PM.
jm flean be there too.
word with me
Mandy mong
12/12/31
17.12.31
DESTROYED UNDER STATUTE
Re Internews.
To Bennis
Le Interviews
17.12.31
18-12-31
Sr. Hamblesse
Mis 9. My boyh
I Calder;
(This is the man who wants
to talk about Hongkong: I cent for a menite abart him the cher day). Infe
the new date will to all right for you?
Joball not be available,
18/12/31
us) kapfect to be in Edinburgh at the New Year, bing back a the morning of Monday that:
If gm are
soing on
the best december.
I hold a
glad if you could be present when
hr Bunnie
I have asked m
Calder When the
papers not come
in advance of
Ishall be here
this inter vicar
24/14/8 25.00
Mr. Einnie called on the 31st
December and was seen by Mr.Cowell and myself.
He left with me the attached paper summarisinį
the position in regard to the Hong Kong
water project.
I explained to Mr.Binnie that we
had written to the Crown Agents on the 29th
December (82773/31) only for their comments
on the Governor's proposals;
and that we must
await their reply before any instructions
could be sent out to Hong Kong. I promised
that I would let him know when such instructions
had been sent.
As regards the financial aspect of
the question, I told Mr.Binnie that there was
no prospect of the necessary money being
raised in this country. He realised this;
but said that he had gathered from the
Governor that there would be no difficulty
in raising locally as much as would be
required.
No action necessary pending reply
from Crown Agents.
I Confell
82s. 31/12/31
Submits alszons
prapasals.
31.12.31 / 13
Governm's
With reference to paragraphs 9 and 10
of Crown Agents' letter of the 31st of December
(21), I spoke to-day on the telephone to Mr. Spiller,
who told me that it would take at least three or four months for the Consulting Engineers to prepare the necessary drawings and quantities. He said that if the scheme was to proceed
Consulting Engineers were anxious to get their men on the spot by August, which was the best month of the year for work of that sort to begin in Hong
Kong. There is, therefore, none too much time if the scheme is to be begun this year.
In view of the Governor's undertaking given in paragraph 8 of his Confidential despatch of August the 7th, 1931 (14), to proceed with an adequate scheme of water charges, general approval of the further work on the Shing Mun water scheme need not, I think, be further withheld on that account.
The Crown Agents in paragraph 4 of (21) consider that the proposals put forward with regard to the engineering aspects of the scheme can be
approved.
? Approve engineering aspects of proposals the carrying out of the work under the direct supervision of the Consulting Engineers; and telegraph to Hong Kong as in draft herewith (for
No reference has been made in the draft telegram to possibility of an application for
assistance
assistance from the Colonial Development Fund. If any such application is intended, it will, no doubt, be mentioned in the further despatch which the Governor has promised (in paragraph 4 of (13)) regarding the method of financing the undertaking.
? After despatch, recirculate for Confidential despatch to Hong Kong, enclosing
a copy of the telegram, and embodying the
substance of paragraphs 5, 6, 7 and 8 of the Crown Agents' letter (21). And
letter to Mr Binne informing him that
engineering aspects of the scheme hour been afferaved (388 30 J. Shusthurgh's mumente
nimute of 31/12)
Hoe gemeron
that we should telegraph is in
draft or follow up by despatch. The whole
turns on finance
- finance & we cannot get
assume that it will be forcible to
push on this
on this year. If there
there is
formal contract
with the C.E., the CA. will fremmably
in the letter to the C.F. most of
the conditions uppested by the H.K. D.P.W.
in enclos. to (13), at a later date.
but we can
take that up
J. A. Calder
225 7/1/32 + once
(20.13 -
22 Tel Lo.56 for HK. coms (4o. 13 awed) - 8 Jan 1932
Note 25. 23 to for. Conf (w/e22)
PESTROYED UNDER STATUE
20.1.32.
20 JAN 1932
CA (me 23)- 2caure Ace 22
WAN 1932
Ac is. (24) with thanks.
Put ang.
WESTONES UNDER STATUTE
25 You TEZ 88
sex on 92653/32.
ES STATUTE
tignies to proposal in proncame
(23) regarding
feex. One engruar
Avertible locally.
? Receive with 93639/32 for consor of
letters to MiBinnie FCR when the Loan dinaues
frofosals contained in Not on that file have been finally effroued
golalders. 32 foren
6.5.32ton
82773/31.
HONG KONG.
Delahunt.
Bickle Calder
Mr. Parkinson.
Mr. Tomlinson.
Sir C. Bottomley.
16. 1.32.
Sir J. Shuckburgh.
Permt. U.S. of S.
Parly. U.S. of S.
Secretary
HONG KONG.
Confidential.
92653/32.
Downing Street,
January, 1932.
8.1.25 (22)
I have &c. to confirm my
telegram No. 5 of the 8th of January
conveying my approval of the
engineering works of the Shing Mun
Valley Water Works Scheme, and of the
eventually
work being carried out under the
direct supervision of the Consulting
Engineers. A copy of the telegram
2 drafts.
is enclosed.
2. The Crown Agents for the
Colonies in their letter of the
72858/30
18th of September, 1930, a copy of
which was enclosed in Lord Passfield's
Copy A. for infor LF Fürünfer LE
Confidential despatch of the 3rd of
outlived
October, 1930, have stated that it
the fees Rat it
would be necessary to pay the Consulting
Engineers according to the amount
devolving upon them and the degree of
responsibility which they might be called
upon to accept. The proposal that the
work should be directly supervised by
the Consulting Engineers who would send out
their Resident Engineer for the purpose
is in accordance with alternative (b)
in the Crown Agents' letter referred to above,
and the Consulting Engineers will, therefore,
accept full responsibility for the whole
of the works, including the preparation of all
drawings and general supervision of the works.
The fees they would propose to charge would
be 5% on expenditure up to £250,000
and 41% on the remainder, plus the cost of the
partners' visits.
It is not the normal practice
normal practice of the formal
3. The Grown Agents state that they
mm Aguts to
do not normally enter into agreements with
in connection with what works of this halune.
firms of Consulting Engineers The terms
of payment, etc. being usually embodied in
(from the
a letter,
~ Age to to the firm)
and that
see no reason for
departing
departing from their usual practice
enclosure 3 to your confid desfated in this case.
Nov. will be considered
of the 5th f
when the letter is drafted.
The myjections made in It is feared
4. The Crown Agents fear that
considerable delay would arise if the
Consulting Engineers ar to obtain the
approval of the Hong Kong Government
before engaging staff, as suggested in
paragraph 11 of enclosure 3 to your
It is usual for the Crow
despatch of the 5th of NovembeF,
Agents to engage
Th say that they usualN
the staff required on the
recommendation of the Consulting
Engineers when the work is commenced,
additional staff required during the
progress of the work being indented for
by the Resident Engineer through the
Colonial Government. The indents
the comm Agents
are then
being dealt with by themselves in
the normal way.
he following system has
The Crown Kgents have found
beere found
the following method satisfactory in
a number of Colonies when works of
magnitude
magnitude have been carried out
departmentally under the supervision of
the Consulting Engineers, Local control
rests with the Resident Engineer who is
selected by, and is responsible in all
technical matters to, the Consulting Engineers.
This officer enters into an agreement with the
Crown Agents on behalf of the Colonial
Government to serve the Government for such
a period and on such terms as may be arranged.
is for all purposes of discipline and
account, the servant of the Colonial Government,
to whom he looks for instructions on any matters
apart from the technical conduct of the work.
For technical matters he acts under the
sole instructions of the Consulting Engineers,
who are fully responsible for the efficient and
economical execution of the works.
Similarly, the Resident
Engineer's staff are engaged by the Crown Agents,
and their salaries, passages, etc. as well as
that of the Resident Engineer are payable by
the Colonial Government.
I have &c.,
(Sgd.) P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER.
Jameson.6
Calder. 7./
Mr. Tomlinson.
Codedesent
Mão. 11.35 A 8/1/32,
Sir C. Bottomley.
Sir J. Shuckburgh.
Sir G. Grindle.
Permt. U.S. of S.
Parly. U.S. of 8.
Secretary of State.
Confidential.
DRAFT, TELEGRAM.
for conson
GOVERNOR
HONG KONG
Your Confidential despatch
5th November 1931 I approve
engineering aspects of Shing Mun
waterworks scheme but it must be
understood that for present there
be no prospect of financing
scheme by raising loan in this
country or by obtaining advances
from Crown Agents pending raising of
Will await despatch
I note that you will address
me further regarding method of
financing this undertaking.
I approve
eventually being carried out under
direct supervision of Consulting
Engineers
Engineers who would send out their
own Resident Engineer for that purpose.
Despatch follows embodying
suggestions as to procedure regarding
relations with Consulting Engineers
and engagement of staff.
Considerable time will be required
for preparation of drawings
quantities etc. and if you intend to recommend
that work should begin in time for full
advantage to be taken of the next dry
season Consulting Engineers must be instructed
at the earliest possible date. In this
connection please inform me whether you approve
proposed by Consulting Engineers
in paragraph 5 (b) of their letter
of the 17th September 1930 to Crown Agents which
forme sub enclosure to my Confidential despatch
of 3rd October 1930.
(13 on 72852/30)
Am advised that
full details of training and experience
of any Assistant Engineers and Foremen of Works
available should be sent
that Consulting
Engineers may satisfy themselves as
suitability for
employment on works.
oning to go on 82818/3, Loans for Public Woir.
Telegram from the Governor of Hong Kong to the Secretary of
State for the Colonies.
Dated ?4th December. Received at 11-15 am 24th December 1931.
No 252 Confidential.
Your talogram of 4th December No 145 Confide ential. I do not consider that it will be necessary to raise any loans for sene months. Date will depend on whether the prezent catiefactory income is maintained. When loan is required I am advised that it will not be necessary to raise the money in England as the money will be obtainable squally cheap here.
ALL COMMUNICATIONS
TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE
CROWN AGENTS FOR THE COLONIES,
THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE AND THE
DATE OF THIS LETTER BEING QUOTED.
Z/E.254/12.
LEGRAMS: CROWN LONDON.
TELEPHONE: 7730 VICTORIA,
COLONIES
4 MILLBANK,
WESTMINSTER,
LONDON, S.W.1.
31st January 1931
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter No.82773/31 of the 29th December regarding the Shing
Mun Valley Waterworks Scheme, Hong Kong.
2. This scheme was originally prepared by Mr.
R.M.Henderson of the Public Works Department, and is described
in his reports of the 8th April 1924, and of the 31st March 1930.
In view of the magnitude of the scheme it was thought desirable
to submit the proposals to a firm of eminent Consulting
Engineers for their advice and the firm of Sir Alex. Binnie,
Son & Deacon was selected for this purpose. Mr. Gourley, a
partner of the above firm, visited Hong Kong in January 1930,
and reported that the scheme was a good one and that the works
so far completed had been well laid out. Mr. Gourley expressed
the opinion that with certain modifications Mr.Henderson's
proposals were the most economical means of securing the
additional water supply required.
The scheme includes the construction of a dam of
considerable height and although Mr.Gourley, when in Hong Kong,
examined the foundations for the dam so far as it was possible
to do so, he considered that further exploratory work was
necessary before the site could be finally approved, and it
was suggested that Mr. Binnie, the senior partner of the firm,
should visit Hong Kong and make another examination of the
foundations after the further exploratory work had been
Ausd. 81132
The Under Secretary of State,
Colonial office.
/completed
completed.
As the result of Mr. Binnie's inspection of
the rock as recently exposed in the trenches, the
conclusion has been reached that the site is a favourable
one for the construction of the dam.
4. In the foregoing circumstances we think that the
proposals put forward with regard to the engineering aspects
of the scheme can be approved.
5. We note from paragraph 3 of the Governor's
despatch of the 5th November, a copy of which accompanied
your letter under acknowledgement, that it is recommended
that the work should be directly supervised by the
Consulting Engineers, who would send out their own
Resident Engineer for the purpose. In our letter of the
(II) on 72852 18th September 1930, we outlined the fees that it would
be necessary to pay the Consulting Engineers according to
the amount of work devolving upon them and the degree of
responsibility which they might be called upon to accept.
The present proposal is in accordance with alternative (b)
of our letter of the 18th September 1930, and the Consulting
Engineers will, therefore, accept full responsibility for
the whole of the works, including the preparation of all
drawings and general supervision of the work. The fees
they would propose to charge would be 5% on expenditure
up to £250,000 and 41% on the remainder, plus the cost
of partners' visits.
In the Governor's despatch of the 5th November,
it is suggested that an agreement should be entered into
between the Government and the Consulting Engineers.
do not normally enter into formal agreements with firms of
/Consulting
Consulting Engineers the terms of payment, etc. being
usually embodied in a letter, and we see no reason for
departing from our usual practice in this case.
We fear that considerable delay would arise if
the Consulting Engineers are to obtain the approval of the
Colonial Government before engaging staff, as suggested in
paragraph 11 of enclosure No. 3 of the Governor's despatch
of the 5th November. We usually engage all the staff
required on the recommendation of the Consulting Engineers
when the work is commenced. Additional staff required
during the progress of the work would be indented for by the
Resident Engineer through the Colonial Government and the
indents would be dealt with by ourselves in the normal way.
8. In amplification of the preceding paragraph we
should like to refer to the methods which have been found
satisfactory in a number of Colonies when works of magnitude
have been carried out departmentally under the supervision
of Consulting Engineers. Local control rests with the
Resident Engineer who is selected by and is responsible in
all technical matters to the Consulting Engineers. This
officer would enter into an agreement with ourselves on
behalf of the Colonial Government to serve the Government
for such a period and on such terms as may be arranged. is, for all purposes of discipline and account, the servant
of the Colonial Government, to whom he looks for instructions
on any matters apart from the technical conduct of the work.
For technical matters he acts under the sole instructions
of the Consulting Engineers, who are fully responsible for
the efficient and economical execution of the works.
Similarly, the Resident Engineer's staff are engaged by ourselves and their salaries, passages, etc., as well as that of the Resident Engineer, are payable by the Colonial
Government.
We understand that considerable time will be
required to prepare the necessary drawings, quantities, etc.,
for the scheme and in order that full advantage may be taken
of the next dry season it is important that the drawings
should be proceeded with at the earliest possible date.
10. We note that the Governor proposes to send a
further despatch as to the method of financing the under-
taking, but we understand from Sir Alex. Binnie, Son &
Deacon that the Colony anticipate no difficulty in raising
the funds necessary locally.
We note from clause 12 of enclosure No. 3 that
certain officers are available locally for employment on
the works. We think it is important that full details of
the training and experience of any Assistant Engineers,
Foreman of Works, etc. who may be available should be sent
to this country in order that the Consulting Engineers
may satisfy themselves that they are entirely suitable for
employment on the works.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient servant,
Je namor Jenä
for CROWN AGENTS.
HONG KONG WATER.
Gourley's Report 1.4.31.
Available.
Consumption 1930.
A.B.3. & D. 31.12.31.
Astimated Con-
sumption 1945.
Hong Kong Island
12.85 m.g.d.'
10.8 m..d.
14.9 m.g.d.
Ma inland
6.00 18.85
4.65 17.25
The present available resources are 10.8 m.g.d. which could be increased by the construction of further catchwaters.
per annum
Average annual growth about 700,000 gallons per dayɅ
will absorb all available supplies by 1935, i.e. before Shing Mun
Reservoir can be completed.
Additional Supplies afforded by Shing Mun 3cheme.
1st Instalment
(Reservoir)
64 m. ̧.0.
(Tunnel & Catch- waters)
(Catchwater)
( ditto. }
Scheme recommended subject to suitable foundations being
disclosed for the Dam (200 ft, above river bed). Recommends contract
to expose the rock.
Binnie's Report 21.10.31.
Foundation rock sound and endorses the scheme, but confines
recommendation to reservoir 190 ft. deep subject to further levels
being taken on the ridge.
by administration.
Recommends that the work be carried out
Binnie's Report 24.10.31.
Levels of ridge now available and recommends adoption
of reservoir 200 ft. deep.
Pafer left with me JMr. Binne 31/12/31
Mr. Delahunt. 23. 12.31
Bickle 23 to
Mr. Tomlinson.
Sir C. Bottomley.
Sir J. Shuckburgh.
Sir G. Grindle.
Permt. U.S. of 8.
82773/31 Hong Kong.in
Downing Street,
2 9 December, 1931.
Gentlemen,
With reference to your letter
Parly. U.S. of S.
Secretary of State.
Z/E.254/12 of the 26th of November
THE CROWN AGENTS
FOR THE COLONIES.
2nd ✓ 3-0.
Fr.Gov.liong Kong 5th Nov. with encl
enclosing a copy of a report by
Mr.W.J.Binnie, regarding the Shing Mun
Valley Waterworks Scheme, Fong Kong,
I am etc. to transmit to you a copy
of a despatch from the Governor of the Colony
bens tons on the subject.
2. The Secretary of State would
be glad to be furnished with your
observations on Sir William Peel's
suggestion that the proposals put
forward with regard to the engineering
aspects of the Scheme should row be
approved.
Recirculate to bir
Shuckburgh by 31st December
that for the
3 I am to state for the
present there, no prospect of
financing this Scheme by raising a
loan in this country, or by the long
Kong Government obtaining advances from you
pending the raising of a loan.
1 am to request that an early reply
may be returned to this letter.
I am etc.
ener. H. R. O
Daring, om
Din 2012, (ranger Purses Works).
TELEGRAM from the Secretary of State for the Colonies to
the Governor of Hong Kong.
(Sant 3 p.m., 4th December, 1931.)
No. 145. Confidential.
Your Confidential despatch of 7th of August. I
approve construction of gaol and charging to loan funds and of
naval arsenal expenditure being charged to surplus balances.
As regards water works it will be necessary to await Binnie's
Report. Please inform me at the earliest date possible whether
it will be necessary to raise money here next year by loan
issue or Treasury bills.
CONFIDANTIAL
Drip, aga. 82818
(Room for Public Work)
Government llouse,
Hong Kong, 7th August, 1931.
P2808/31
by Lord,
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt
of Your Lordship's confidential despatch of the 26th
of lay, 1931, on the subject of anticipated loan
requirements.
2. I am glad to say that the financial position
has improved considerably, and may be described as not
unsatisfactory, though the position has been attained
to some extent by deferment of certain desirable works.
The rapid fall in the sterling value of the dollar
early in the year, while causing a large increase in
the dollar equivalent of the Colony's sterling commitments, coincided with an improvement in the
general situation, and I am glad to be able to report
that the conservative estimate contained in the
enclosure to my despatch of the 13th of March can now be reconsidered in the light of the experience of the first half of 1931.
3. The actual deficit in the 1930 Budget proved
to be no more than 301,173, so that the balance of
assets over liabilities on the 1st of January, 1931,
THE RIGHT HON URABLE
LORD PAJUFIELD,
was $9,361,679, of which over $5,500,000 was in liquid form. I regret that the late Treasurer's estimate in October, 1930, which is quoted in the second paragraph of Your Lordship's despatch, was so far wide of the mark. This was largely accounted for by an unexpected increase in land sales and by the fall in the dollar resulting in the appreciation of the dollar value of sterling deposits realized during the year.
4. As regards the current year's working, the revenue up to date is well ahead of the estimated figures, the result of the additional taxation imposed having exceeded expectations. The revenue actually collected up to the 30th of June was $15,700,000, and there is no reason to suppose that the second half will not produce at least an equal amount, more especially
as the full effect of certain forms of taxation will
not be felt until the second half. It may reasonably be anticipated therefore that the revenue for the full year will not be far short of $31,000,000.
The expenditure for the first half of this year will probably amount to about $14,250,000 but for the full year it is anticipated that the estimate of $30,986,800 will prove to be approximately correct.
In the absence therefore of any unforeseen eventuality,
the Budget should be balanced.
As Your Lordship is aware, additional
taxation has been imposed, including an increase of 45
in the rates.
The effect of this additional taxation
is evident from the fact that the revenue, which in
1929 amounted to $234 millions, is expected to reach
the figure of $31 millions in the current year. It
is true that some of this increase is due to increased
land sales and also to the fact that some of the
additional revenue is the result of placing liquor and
tobacco duties on a sterling basis. Should the value
of the dollar rise the receipt in local currency from
the latter duties would decrease but this would be set
off by a decrease in the dollar equivalent of our
sterling commitments.
7. In 1932 I anticipate that the revenue figure
for 1931 will be exceeded, as some of the increased
have only been in effect for a part of the current
year. I adhere to the view that this Colony is by no means heavily taxed, but I consider it inadvisable to
increase taxation too rapidly, thereby accelerating the
rate of increase in the cost of living. The
Colonial Treasurer has subratted proposals for
increasing various fees and licences, which are estimated to produce some $600,000 additional revenue.
If further revenue is needed, apart from that required
to meet additional loan charges, it would be possible
further to raise the liquor and tobacco duties, and
possibily impose a betting tax. It is proposed to
increase the revenue from water, to which I will refer
later. No doubt it will be possible to raise the
rates still further, but as they have recently been
raised by 4, I think it would be better not to make
any further increase at present, but to wait until it
is required to meet additional loa charges for which,
on account of its stability, it is peculiarly suitable.
This form of taxation is in my opinion calculated to
raise the essential cost of living, and I deprecate
too rapid an increase if it can be avoided.
3. I note Your Lordship's instructions that
further work on the second part of the shing kun Water
Works scheme should await the further consideration of
the question of putting waterworks generally on a
satisfactory paying basis. This matter is receiving
By immediate attention, and I hope to address Your
Lordship further on the subject in the near future.
I am entirely in agreement that this should be done,
but it will take some time for a scheme to have full
eïfect, as it entails a more or less universal
installation of meters. krogress has already been
made in this direction, and 1,523 meters have been
installed this year, while further installations will
proceed as soon as money is made available for the
purchase of additional meters. In view of the
greatly improved financial position, and my undertaking
to proceed with an adequate scheme of water charges, I trust that Your Lordship will approve generally of the extended scheme being proceeded with at once.
Colony suffered very seriously indeed in 1929, owing
to a great shortage of water, and any repetition of
that year's experience would be a calamity. The consulting engineers have clearly shown that the present
supply will in a very few years be inadequate, and I
consider it essential that the extended scheme should be
taken in bland as soon as possible.
I venture to urge very strongly the
reconsideration of Your Lordship's view regarding the
financing of the construction of a new Geol.
The work therefore should be
fully appreciate that as a general principle loans should be confined, as far as possible, to works of a reproductive nature, but this has not been a rigad rule, and I think that there is justification for permitting this work to be paid for out of lom. is a work of the greatest urgency: the conditions in the present gaol are very bal indeed, and the impossibility of properly segregatin, certain types of prisoners has led to a great deal of trouble during
the past few months. taken in hand at once, and not avait the imposition of further taxation vo ncet the cost. In the next place,
I submit that it is not unreasonable that the cost of
such an institution should be spread over a longer term
of years.
The life of the new buildin; will probably
be at least sixty years, while the sinking fund on the
loan, from which I submit it should be paid, will effect repayment in 28 years. I would further point
out that, if additional taxation be imposed to cover the cost, it will mean that we shall have to impose taxation amounting to 25. more than the actual cost, owing to the
fact that such additional revenue will be liable to
military contribution. It is extimated that the gaol will cost $4 millions, to be spent at the rate of
$1,500,000 a year. To meet this expenditure by extra taxation would mean the raising of an additional $1,375,000 a year, a burden which I consider too heavy
for the present taxpayers.
If, as I hope, Your
Lordship will accept these views, I shall be glad if a telogram may be sent to that effect, for I am most anxious to proceed with the work at once. I my say that I understand that it has been approved that the cost of erecting a new gaol and a hospital in Kenya be
charged to a loan.
10. I would refer to Your Lordship's telegra No.4 of the 6th of January, 1931, stating that Your Lordship does not approve of charging to surplus balances or loan the cost of the proposed
I arrangements in regard to the Naval Arsenal. venture earnestly to ask for a reconsideration of this decision and for Your Lordship's authority to charge
it to surplus balances. The money required will be vecogered in a short time by the sale of the land thus rendered available and it therefore soeus inequitable
to raise additional taxation to cover the cost of such
e scheme,
11. In view of the improved financial position,
and the fact that it is almost certain that the 1931
Budget will be balanced, I have come to the conclusion that there will be no necessity to resort to a loan this year, as it will be possible without embarrassment to continue to advance money for approved loan works from
surplus balances. If the anticipated revenue for 1932 is realised, and there is no sbnormal expenditure, it might even be possible to finance the remainder of the present approved loan programme without borrowing
next year.
If however Your Lordship will approve of
further work on the second part of the shing Lumater
Works scheme proceeding, and of the gaol being paid for
from a loan, it may be necessary to arrange for the issue
of Treasury bonds, or for a temporary overdraft early
next year, and for a loan towards the end of the year to
provide funds for the additional works and to repay the
Public Works loan of 1927. In any event, a further
loan may be desirable for the latter purpose with a
view to securing money at a lower rate of interest.
I enclose a statement, setting out our present
and anticipated liabilities, and indicating how these
can be met from surplus balances up to the end of 1932.
13. I may add that private companies are being
invited to provide ferry boats for the Vehicular Ferry
and I do not anticipate that Government will be called
upon to make such provision.
I have the honour to be,
by Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient, humble servant,
(sd.) W. Feel.
Governor, &c.
that Revenue & Brpenditure
1931 & 1932.
Cash balance on 30th June, 1931
Liabilities.
Estimated Expenditure from surplus balances on account of 1 oan works for 6 months ending 31/12/31.
Estimated excess of Expenditure over Revenue for above 6 months
Estimated cash balance 31/12/31.
on the assumption that the budget for 1931 will be balanced)
Liabilities.
Expenditure from Surplus balances in 1932.
6,260,000
1,200,000
1,500,000
2,700,000
3,560,000
Approved Loan works.
Shing Mun Valley Water Scheme.$432,000
Aerodrome
Aberdeen Valley Water Scheme
Vehicular Ferry
1,558,000
Less final instalment from
Imperial Government in-
respect of Aerodrome £30,000 $600,000
Balance of amount due for
erection of hangar and
slipway approximately
£8,000 plus $141,000
Estimated Cash balance 31/12/32 on) the assumption that the budget for 1932 will be balanced.
$2,903,000
Shing Mun Valley Scheme
Further expenditure-for which authority is sought in
despatch of 7. 8. 31.
Second Section.
Expenditure in
$ 250,000
New Gaol
Naval Arsenal Scheme
1,500,000
1,000,000
$2,760,000
No. CONFIDENTI AL.
GOVERNMENT HOUSE,
HONG KONG, 5th November, 1931.
Encl. No. 1.
Encl. No. 2.
With reference to Lord Passfield's confidential
(7) despatch of the 24th of April, 1931, on the subject of
© inorriciclub
the Shing Mun Valley Waterworks scheme, I have the
honour to enclose the accompanying copies of two
reports by Mr. W.J.E. Binnie, senior partner of
Messrs. Sir Alexander Binnie Son and Deacon, Consulting
Engineers, together with a forecast of the probable
expenditure to be incurred on the construction of the
Gorge Dam spread over a period of five years.
I discussed this matter with Mr. Binnie on the
23rd of October at Government House, the Colonial
Secretary, the Director of Public Works and Mr. Henderson
being also present. At the interview Mr. Binnie
proposed that subject to certain details not then
available the top water level of the dam should be
raised to 625 0.D. He estimated the total cost of the
scheme including engineering and supervision at
$9,200,000. It will be seen from his later report of
the 24th of October that he finally approved the level
of 625 0.D.
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE
J. H. THOMAS, M.P.,
Enclosure No. 1.
Hong Kong, 21st October, 1931
The Hon. Director of Public Works,
Hon3 Kong.
Hong Kong Water.
shing Hun Dam Site.
My partner, Mr. Gourley, reported in favour of the
Shing Mun Scheme as proposed by Mr. Henderson in 1924 after
a review of the further needs of the Colony and other
possibilities for increasing the water supply of Kowloon and
Hong Kong.
His conclusions are set out in paragraph 70 of his
report to the Crown Agents of the Colonies dated 1. 4. 31.
In paragraph 42 of this report he pointed out that
in view of the magnitude of the structure it would be
necessary to explore the foundation conditions before we
could make any final recommendation and advised that
exploratory work should be promptly put in hand, which work would also be necessary before dra ings could be prepared.
In paragraph 44 he endorsed lir. Henderson's view that the Shing Mun Valley should be developed to its utmost.
It had originally been proposed to store water to a
maximum depth of 175 feet which would form a storage reservoir of 2,000 mill. gall. gross, or about 1,850 mill. gall. above the level at which the water could be discharged
by gravity into the conduit.
My raising the top water level to 625 0.D., i.e. another 25 ft. it was pointed out that the storage capacity would be increased by about 1,000 mill. gall.
མན་པ་ལས་
Acting on the advice which was then given a
Contract was let on the 30. 4. 31 for the exploratory work
in order to ascertain the depth of soft material overlying
the rock and the nature of the rock by means of a trench
right across the valley opened along a line selected by
Mr. Gourley as possibly representing the best position for
the Dam, and work has been continued on this Contract up
to the date of writing.
It was arranged with the Crown Agents that
Mr. Jinnie should inspect the rock when exposed, before
final approval was given to the selection of this site, as
the Dam would oe of such a height as to impose heavy
stresses on the foundation material.
Mr. Binnie accordingly arrived in Hong Kong on the
8th instant and has made four inspections of the rock as
now exposed in the trench and has also examined the adjacent
outcrops and the trenches excavated prior to Mr. Gourley's
The conclusion at which he has arrived is that the
sita is a favourable one for the construction of a dam of
the proposed height and therefore he is able to confirm our
previous report.
The Reservoir when formed would be retained in a
basin the Southern boundary of which, between the site of the
dam and Pineapple Pass, is determined by the Ridge separating
the Shing Mun Valley from the Gin Drinkers' Bay drainage area.
If the Dam were of such a height as to impound water
up to 625 0.D. there would not be sufficient freeboard
between the Reservoir level and the top of this Ridge at one
point, and Mr. Binnie is of opinion that it would not be
advisable
advisable to assume at present that the water was raised by
the Dam above 615 0.D.
It would be feasible to adopt the highest level of 625 0.D. but further works would be involved the extent
of which cannot at present be determined, but it is not
anticipated that these would be of any great magnitude and
would be covered by the estimate given in our previous
In this report, paragraph 64 and 65, two alternative
methods of carrying out the work are dealt with and we would
recommend that the work be carried out by administration,
Sub-contracts being let for various portions of the work
wherever possible.
If there are any other points with
which you wish Mr. Binnie to deal, he would be pleased to do
so by interview.
We have the honour to be,
Your obedient servants,
(sd.) Alex. Binnie Son & Deacon.
Hong Kong, 24th October, 1931.
The Hon. Director of Public Works,
Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Water Shing Mun Dam Site.
With reference to the last paragraph but
one on page 2 and the succeeding paragraph of my report dated October 1931 the sections across the
ridge have now been taken and I am of opinion that it will be feasible to adopt 625 0.D. for top water
level, and that the works involved to attain this
object will be covered by the estimate already
submitted.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient servant,
(sd.) W.J.E. Binnie.
Enclosure No. 1.
Hong Kong, 21st October, 1931.
The Hon. Director of Public Works,
Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Water.
Shing Mun Dam Site.
My partner, Mr. Gourley, reported in favour of the
Shing Mun Scheme as proposed by Mr. Henderson in 1924 after
a review of the further needs of the Colony and other
possibilities for increasing the water supply of Kowloon and
Hong Kong.
His conclusions are set out in paragraph 70 of his
report to the Crown Agents of the Colonies dated 1. 4. 31.
In paragraph 42 of this report he pointed out that
in view of the magnitude of the structure it would be
necessary to explore the foundation conditions before we
could make any final recommendation and advised that
exploratory work should be promptly put in hand, which work
would also be necessary before drawings could be prepared.
In paragraph 44 he endorsed Mr. Henderson's view
that the Shing Mun Valley should be developed to its utmost.
It had originally been proposed to store water to a
maximum depth of 175 feet which would form a storage
reservoir of 2,000 mill. gall. gross, or about 1,850 mill.
gall. above the level at which the water could be discharged
by gravity into the conduit.
My raising the top water level to 625 0.D., i.e.
another 25 ft. it was pointed out that the storage capacity would be increased by about 1,000 mill. gall.
Acting on the advice which was then given a
Contract was let on the 30. 4. 31 for the exploratory work
in order to ascertain the depth of soft material overlying
the rock and the nature of the rock by means of a trench
right across the valley opened along a line selected by
Mr. Gourley as possibly representing the best position for
the Dam, and work has been continued on this Contract up
to the date of writing.
It was arranged with the Crown Agents that
Mr. Binnie should inspect the rock when exposed, before
final approval was given to the selection of this site, as
the Dam would be of such a height as to impose heavy
stresses on the foundation material.
Mr. Binnie accordingly arrived in Hong Kong on the
8th instant and has made four inspections of the rock as
now exposed in the trench and has also examined the adjacent
outcrops and the trenches excavated prior to Mr. Gourley's
The conclusion at which he has arrived is that the
site is a favourable one for the construction of a dam of
the proposed height and therefore he is able to confirm our
previous report.
The Reservoir when formed would be retained in a
basin the Southern boundary of which, between the site of the
dam and Pineapple Pass, is determined by the Ridge separating the Shing Mun Valley from the Gin Drinkers' Bay drainage area.
If the Dam were of such a height as to impound water
up to 625 0.D. there would not be sufficient freeboard between the Reservoir level and the top of this Ridge at one point, and Mr. Binnie is of opinion that it would not be
advisable
advisable to assume at present that the water was raised by
the Dam above 615 0.D.
It would be feasible to adopt the highest level
of 625 0.D. but further works would be involved the extent
of which cannot at present be determined, but it is not
anticipated that these would be of any great magnitude and
would be covered by the estimate given in our previous
In this report, paragraph 64 and 65, two alternative
methods of carrying out the work are dealt with and we would
recommend that the work be carried out by administration,
Sub-contracts being let for various portions of the work
wherever possible.
If there are any other points with
which you wish Mr. Binnie to deal, he would be pleased to do
so by interview.
We have the honour to be,
Your obedient servants,
(sd.) Alex. Binnie Son & Deacon.
Hong Kong, 24th October, 1931.
The Hon. Director of Public Works,
Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Water
Shing Mun Dam Site.
With reference to the last paragraph but
one on page 2 and the succeeding paragraph of my report dated October 1931 the sections across the
ridge have now been taken and I am of opinion that it will be feasible to adopt 625 0.D. for top water
level, and that the works involved to attain this
object will be covered by the estimate already
submitted.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient servant,
(sd.) W.J.E. Binnie.
Enclosure No. 2.
SHING MUN DAM.
Forecast of Probable Annual Expenditure Including
Supervision and Engineering.
1st Year
$1,600,000.
$2,300,000.
$2,300,000.
$2,300,000.
700,000.
$9,200,000.
(sd.) W.J.E. Binnie.
22. 10. 31.
Enclosure No. 3.
Suggestions for consideration by Crown Agents when
drawing up agreement with Consulting Engineers.
Consulting Engineers to advise upon design and to
supervise the Construction of the Works in connection with
the erection of a Dam at the Shing Mun Gorge.
2. Consulting Engineers to prepare all necessary Designs,
Detail Drawings, Specifications, Bills of Quantities,
Schedules and any other particulars to enable the said Dam
to be carried out at the earliest possible date.
Consulting Engineers to be free to carry out the
Works by Contract, Sub Contract or Direct Labour subject to
permission from Hong Kong Government after particulars have
been submitted.
The Consulting Engineers shall supply the Government
with two copies (prints) of the General Drawings for the
Works before work is commenced and on completion shall
furnish two copies of drawings of the Works as carried out
showing foundations, drainage etc. with finished levels.
Any alterations or additions to the Works which may
alter the Estimated Cost or alter the general nature of the
Structure should first be submitted to the Colonial Government
before being carried out.
6. Fees and mode and time of payment to be stated.
Period of Consulting Engineers Contract with Government to be
set, say, five years. Notice to be given six months before
expiry and if any extension necessary to be by further mutual
agreement.
One of the Consulting Engineers to visit the Works
once in every year during the Construction of the Works.
8. Dispute or difference arising over the Works between
Government or Consulting Engineers and Contractors or Sub
Contractors, Consulting Engineers to be Arbitrators without
extra fee.
9. Any dispute between Colonial Government and
Consulting Engineers to be submitted to Crown Agents for
arbitration.
Consulting Engineers to submit a schedule of staff deemed necessary with salaries and allowances which will not be exceeded and such to be incorporated in the agreement. 11. The Consulting Engineers to engage such staff subject to approval of the Colonial Government both of the
persons selected and the remunerations offered. The
agreements of all Officers to be drawn up to the approval of the Colonial Government and must clearly state all salary and allowances, leave privileges etc. and be determinable
within three months' notice.
12. Where suitable Officers are already in Government Service and can be spared they should be offered employment in which case they would be seconded and any necessary arrangement or agreement would be drawn up in Hong Kong. All but a very few positions could be filled from the Colonial Service at least until the Public Works Extraordinary programme is extended. This will save very considerably
all round.
All fees expenses of disbursements to be paid to
the Engineers in pounds sterling.
All staff to be under the sole direction of the Engineers but Colonial Government to have the power to dismiss any Officer subject to the Consulting Engineers' approval which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
Enclosure No. 3.
Buestions for consideration by Crown Agents when drawing up a feement with Consulting Engineers.
Consulting Engineers to advise upon design and to supervise the Construction of the Works in connection with the erection of a Dam at the Shing kun Gorge.
2. Consulting Engineers to prepare all necessary Designs, Detail Drawings, Specifications, Bills of quantities,
Schedules and any other particulars to enable the said Dan
to be carried out at the earliest possible date.
Consulting Engineers to be free to carry out the Works by Contract, Sub Contract or Direct Labour subject to permission from Hong Kong Government after particulars have been submitted.
4. The Consulting Engineers shall supply the Government with two copies (prints) of the General Drawings for the Works before work is commenced and on completion shall furnish two copies of drawings of the Works as carried out showing foundations, drainage etc. with finished levels.
5. Any alterations or additions to the Works which may alter the Estimated Cost or alter the general nature of the Structure should first be submitted to the Colonial Government
before being carried out.
6. Fees and mode and time of payment to be stated. Period of Consulting Engineers Contract with Government to be set, say, five years. Notice to be given six months before expiry and if any extension necessary to be by further mutual agreement.
7. One of the Consulting Engineers to visit the Works once in every year during the Construction of the Works.
8. Dispute or difference arising over the Works between Government or Consulting Engineers and Contractors or Sub Contractors, Consulting Engineers to be Arbitrators without extra fee.
9. Any dispute between Colonial Government and
Consulting Engineers to be submitted to Crown Agents for
arbitration.
Consulting Engineers to submit a schedule of staff deemed necessary with salaries and allowances which will not
be exceeded and such to be incorporated in the agreement.
11. The Consulting Engineers to engage such ataff subject to approval of the Colonial Government both of the persons selected and the remmerations offered. The agreements of all Officers to be drawn up to the approval of the Colonial Government and must clearly state all salary and allowances, leave privileges etc. and be determinable
within three months' notice.
12. Where suitable Officers are already in Government
Service and can be spared they should be offered employment in which case they would be seconded and any necessary
arrangement or agreement would be drawn up in Hong Kong. All but a very few positions could be filled from the
Colonial Service at least until the Public Works Extraordinary
programe is extended. This will save very considerably
all round.
All fees expenses of disbursements to be paid to
the Engineers in pounds sterling.
All staff to be under the sole direction of the
Engineers but Colonial Government to have the power to dismiss any Officer subject to the Consulting Engineers' approval
which shall not be unreasonably withhold.
Encl. No. 3.
3. With regard to paragraph 5 of Lord Passfield's
despatch under reference the possible methods of carrying
out the work were discussed at the meeting of the 23rd of
October. As the result of this discussion I recommend
that the work be carried out without a major contractor and
that it be directly supervised by the consulting
engineers who would send out their own resident engineer
for the purpose. It will be necessary for an agreement
to be entered into between this Government and the
consulting engineers and I should be glad of the advice
of the Crown Agents as to the form this agreement should
take. It was understood from Mr. Binnie that the Crown
Agents have previous experience of agreements of this
kind. I enclose in duplicate certain suggestions from
the Director of Public Works for consideration by the
Crown Agents in drawing up the agreement should you
approve the proposed method of carrying out the work.
4. I will address you further as to the method
of financing the undertaking in the light of your circular despatch of the 19th of September, 1931, regarding the financial position in England, but in the meantime I shall be glad to receive your approval of the proposals put forward with regard to the engineering aspects of the scheme in order that it may be possible to begin the work without delay when the question of the
provision of funds has been settled.
I have the honour to be,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
Governor, &c.
ALL COMMUNICATIONS
TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE
CROWN AGENTS FOR THE COLONIES,
THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE AND THE
DATE OF THIS LETTER BEING QUOTED.
2/E.254/12.
TELEGRAMS:
'CROWN LONDON."
TELEPHONE: 7730 VICTORIA,
COLONIES
4 MILLBANK,
WESTMINSTER,
LONDON, S.W.1.
26th November 1931.
I have the honour to refer to your letter
No. 82773/31 of the 5th June, wherein we were requested
to arrange for Mr. Binnie, a Partner of the firm of
Sir Alexander Binnie, Son & Deacon, to visit Hong Kong
in connection with the Hong Kong Water Supply Scheme.
We now enclose, for your information, a copy of
a report dated October, 1931, which Mr. Binnie, on behalf
of his firm, submitted to the Director of Public Works
whilst he was in the Colony, regarding the Shing Mun Dam
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
The Under Secretary of State,
Colonial Office.
for Crown Agents.
Hong Kong.
October 1931.
The Min. Director of Public Works.
Hồng Kông.
Hon 1.0 Bater.
Shin Mun Dam Site.
My partner, Mr. Gourley, re orted in favour of the
Shing Mun Scheme as proposed by Mr. Henderson in 1924 after
a review of the further needs of the Colony and other possi-
bilities for increasing the water supply of Kowloon and Hons dong
His conclusions are set out in paragraph 70 of his
report to the Crown Agents of the Colonies dated 1.4.31.
In Paragraph 42 of this report he pointed out that
in view of the magnitude of the a tructure it would be necessary
to explore the foundation conditions before we could make
any final recommendation and advised that exploratory work should be promptly put in hand, which work would also be
necessary before drawings could be prepared.
In Paragraph 4# he endorsed Mr. Henderson's view that
the Shin Mun Valley should be developed to its utmost.
It had originally been proposed to store water to a
maximum depth of 175 feet which would form a storage reservoir
of 2,300 mill. gall. ross, or about 1,850 mill. gall. above
the level at which the water could be discharged by gravity
into the conduit
By raising the top water level to 625 U.D., i.e.
another 25 ft. it was pointed out that the storage capacity would be increased by about 1,000 mill. gall.
Acting on the advice which was then given a Contract
was let on the 30.4.31. for the exploratory work in order
to ascertain the depth of soft material overlying the
rock and the nature of the rock by means of a trench right
across the valley opened along a line selected by Mr. Gourley
as possibly representing the best position for the Dam, and
work has been continued on this Contract upto the date of
writing.
It was arranged with the Crown Agents that Mr.
Binnie should inspect the rock when exposed, before final
approval was given to the selection of this site, as the
Dam would be of such a height as to impose heavy atresses
on the founation material.
Mr. Binnie accordingly arrived in Hong Kong on the
8th instant and has made four inspections of the rock as
now ex oded in the trench and hos also examined the adjacent
outcrops and the trenches excavated prior to Mr. Gourley's
The conclusion at which he has arrived is that
the site is a favourable one for the construction of a dam
of the proposed height and therefore he is able to confirm our
previous report.
The Reservoir when formed would be retained in a
basin the Southern boundary of which, between the site of
the dam and Pineapple Pass, is determined by the Hidge
from the Gin Drinkera' Bay
separating the Shing Mun Valley
drainage area.
If the Dum were
such a height as to impound
water up to 625 U.D. there would not be sufficient free-
board between the Reservoir level and the top of this Ridge
at one point, and Mr. Binnie is of opinion that it would not
be advisable to assume at present that the water was raised
by the Dam above 61ɔ 0.D.
It would be feasible to adopt the highest level of
625 0.D. but further works would be involved the extent
of which cannot at present be determined but it is not
anticipated that these would be of any great magnitude
anu would be covered by the estimate given in our previous
In this report Paragraph 64 and 65 two alternative
methods of carrying out the work are dealt with and we
would recommend that the work be carried out by administration
sub-contracts being let for various poritions of the work
wherever possible.
If there are any other points with
which you wish Mr. Binnie, to deal, he would be pleased to
do so by interview.
We have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servants,
SIR ALEX: BINNIE SON & DEACON.
W.T.E.B,
Hong Kon
24th October, 1931.
The Hon. Director of Public Works.
Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Water - Shing Mun Dam Site.
With reference to the last paragraph but one on
page 2 and the succeeding paragraph of my report dated October
1931, the sections across the ridge have now been taken and
I am of opinion that it will be feasible to adopt 625 0.D.
for top water level, and that the works involved to attain
this object will be covered by the estimate already submitted.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
(Sqd.) W.J. E. Buinie.
ALL COMMUNICATIONS
TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE
CROWN AGENTS FOR THE COLONIES.
THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE AND THE
DATE OF THIS LETTER BEING QUOTED.
Z/E.254/12.
COLONIES
TELEGRAMS:
CROWN LONDON.
TELEPHONE: 7730 VICTORIA.
4 MILLBANK.
WESTMINSTER,
LONDON, S.W.1.
13th June, 1931.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter No.82773/31 of the 5th June, wherein we were requested
to arrange for Mr. Binnie to visit Hong Kong in the autumn in
connection with the Hong Kong water supply scheme.
2. Mr. Binnie has now informed us that he is arranging to
leave Marseilles by the s.s. "Naldera", which is due to arrive
at Hong Kong on October 9th. We are advising the Colony
accordingly.
betyOAG @
The Under Secretary of State,
Colonial Office.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
Wat wichhar
for Crown Agents.
Hiller 3/1
Glow 3.6
Mr. Tomlinson.
Tomlinso
Sir C. Bottomley.
Sir J. Shuckburgh.
Sir G. Grindle.
Permt. US. of S.
Parly. U.S. of S.
Secretary of State.
82773/3, 1412.
Jeine. 1/51
to refer
To for":
Dr Jov":
24 April
Loby w/o encls OAG 100
letter E.254/12
9' potpil, regaining 12 Sting
Kong Water Supply Scheme,
to encera for your infr
cony a doport which alimed to the fort a sting Kong,
Fun with
Velegram which has to rained
answer to
12 supportin
made in the third pangash y
12 despalha.
2. The See? o State will ho
glass if you with
any in th autumn,
Binnic to visit the site ?
Be Gorge Dem as report upon
In Suitability on found ations,
on to troms proposed in paremste
8. yaw letter gth 5th April.
TELEGRAM from the Gogernor of Hong Kong to the Secretary
of State for the Colonies.
Dated the 1st Jun,1931. Received at 5.30.a.m. on the
1st June.
No.105 CONFIDENTIA. Your despatch of 24th April
Saingmun scheme. I concur in visit
Confidenti al
of Binnie in autt M.
Hitung 104
Mr. Calden
Mr. Ellis
Mr. Tomlinson.
82773/31 H.
24 April. 1981
Sir C. Bottomley.
Sir J. Shuckburgh.
Sir G. Grindle.
Permt. U.S. of S.
Parly U.S. of S.
Secretary of State.
Confidential
Governor
N.26 in 72854/30)
from C.A.
9. April
(N.6 with uncrown)
frefered Gyor. Penderson
Ofto CA 9
Coping v. C.A. DE.
(without endroures)
повились
my Confidential
dispatch of 12 21 Janney and
comcted compartma on the subjcer of the SHING MUN Valley Waswworks Scheme,
I have in. to truonit to you a
letter form in C.A. for t
Colmice, forecting to report of t Consulting Engineers, muss Sir Alxandw
Binnic, Son and Duncan, upon
Oferomon schime.
It is most ratiofactory
The 2. You wil dang
wildawg this the
(noutring Engineers, white syring
his the Schimit is sound mi
ill note
principle,
support enim modifications, ndi
perlicates that they make her my
unath to malu amy
ncommendation
more thorough expronte
and investigation of the foundation
Contitimo
The pomposed site for a
Gorge Dam have ben mats. Or
is winrotia has to work of
further exposing the propred site
profano,
at Could
3. It is obrinoly impraith
I scheme whit
saliofrio
this print,
words sternly remmend the acceptanc
n mas by R C.A,
I supratim made by
namely, mas m♪. Dinnie shots visit
t site in the autumn with
to satisfying himself has to foundations
fact suitable for
a work o
such magniturs. You will note that
if this suppotion is adopted, the Comwathing
Enginews world not
additimat charge for I visit
apart from In travlling expeners incurra by mr. Binnie berwen
Singapore and It. I [mg, and his
hotel and my pocket expenses.
дроский скрино shall be glad to be informed at
I start to gat
Ascrubimo
on/ my report
and to learn whither
H. In proposal this is. Dinic shuts
visit and report fate wpm
in acceptable ho/h fost o H. Kap.
Sir C. Bottomley.
Sir J. Shuckburgh.
Sir G. Grindle.
Permt. U.S. of S.
Parly. U.S. of S.
Secretary of State.
late that you
in this visit.
4 Just from your
telegram of the 28th f Janay
you affrove generally of the
construction f
the second action
of the thingmen scheme, but you will appreciate that in connection
with a work of this magnitude I
e to any
shall be able to come
final decision until I have received
your considered
commendations
by desfatile.
Mr. Gourley's refert maker
it Dear that t - devimble to
extend the waterworks undertaking us
soon as ponible, but the cost of the
extension Felge eat is extimuted to cost $8,000,000,
tepliding engineering or
supervision, and the question of whether the 4.K. Gost.com afford such a large sum, and if es, low-`'t bald be provided, rate should be carefully considerd by you in rejunction with your finemies,
by he necessary partitulars to bring of to date your Sinners. The application for assistance from the slomil develop. Fund should be
forible & & the question I would refer to my desputed comfid . lespatele of the 16 "fortober. [14]
submitted as
5. Another matter was hich I shall
be feed to receive your
considered
Semployment of contractors
regards the metted of arging
scheme is and where it is affronds. You will note the sender der Gonday and the C.Argento regarding the terms in which contractors might be employed. Whatever may be decided about intreston, I unsider that the
employment of Consulting Engineers is practically evential for work of this magnitude & Isbell be glad to learn if you concur in the come toguntis
that subject, y
(Signed) PASSFIELD,
ALL COMMUNICATIONS
TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE
CROWN AGENTS FOR THE COLONIES.
THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE AND THE
DATE OF THIS LETTER BEING QUOTED.
E.254/12.
TELEGRAMS; CROWN, LONDON.
TELEPHONE: 7730 VICTORIA.
COLONIES
4, MILLBANK,
WESTMINSTER,
LONDON, S.W.1.
9th April 1931.
on 4285730
I have the honour to refer to your letter
No.72852/30 of the 10th October wherein you requested
us to arrange for Mr Gourley, a partner in the firm of
Sir Alex.Binnie Son & Deacon, to visit Hong Kong and
report upon the Shing Mun Water Supply Scheme.
2. Mr Gourley arrived in Hong Kong on the 9th
January last and remained until the 31st of that month.
During his visit he made a comprehensive investigation of
the whole question of water supply, and we now enclose
a copy of a report dated 1st April which we have received
from Sir.Alex.Binnie Son & Deacon regarding the matter.
In their report the Consulting Engineers point
out that in only four complete years since 1906 has a
full and unrestricted water supply been provided in the
Island of Hong Kong. They estimate that the maintainable
resources of the Island will meet anticipated requirements
until about 1936 whilst those on the mainland will be
sufficient until about 1933. It is thought that by 1936
the total resources of the Island capable of
economical development will all be utilised and that
further supplies must come from the mainland. To avoid
restriction of supplies in the event of a sequence of
Copy to For Terme (7)
The Under Secretary of State,
COLONIAL OFFICE.
/critically
critically dry years, it is necessary to have further
sources available in time for the rains of 1935.
4. Mr Gourley investigated closely the scheme
outlined in the report by Mr Henderson of the 8th April
1924, and his further report on the 31st March 1930. It
will be remembered that the first instalment of the scheme
has been carried out and the primary object of Mr Gourley's
visit was to determine whether the second instalment of the
proposed scheme was the best way of augmenting the
existing supply. It is satisfactory to note from
paragraph 39 of the Consulting Engineer's report that the
scheme in principle is good and that the works so far
completed have been well laid out. The principal feature
of the second instalment is the construction of a dam in
the Shing Mun Gorge. This dam will be of considerable
height and in fact higher, we believe, that any dam
previously constructed in the British Empire, although
several dams of greater height have been built in
America. The success of any dam depends primarily upon
the foundations which support it, and the exploration
of the foundations had not proceeded sufficiently far
during Mr Gourley's visit to determine definitely whether
the selected site was entirely suitable for the
construction of a dam of the height proposed. It is
thought however, that the site will be suitable, but a
definite decision on this point cannot be reached until
the rock has been further exposed. This work is in hand
and definite approval of the scheme cannot be given until
the trial trenches have been completed. Upon completion
of the Shing Mun dam and reservoir, the Consulting
/Engineers
Engineers estimate that the water available will suffice for
estimated requirements until about the year 1945, provided
that the estimated annual increments of demand are not
exceeded.
5. In paragraph 62 of the report the Consulting
Engineers draw attention to the necessity of investigating
suitable sources of sand supply.
6. The Consulting Engineers in paragraphs 60 to 65
consider the method which should be adopted for constructing
the works, and recommend that the work be carried out without
the services of a major contractor. If however the Colonial
Government consider it desirable to place the work out to
tender the Consulting Engineers think that the Government
should specify the plant which should be employed upon the
work in order to ensure that the work may be carried out
economically. This proposal is a novel one, and would appear
to prevent the contractors utilising such plant as they
might possess. If the Government purchases the necessary
plant, one of the advantages which is normally obtained by
construction by contract ceases to operate.
7. The Consulting Engineers estimate that, at current
prices, the cost of completing the main and subsidiary dams
and works ancillary thereto, including contingencies but not
engineering or supervision will amount to $8,000,000.
8. With regard to paragraphs 42 and 43 of the report
which deal with the investigation of the site of the Shing Mun
Gorge dam, the Consulting Engineers inform us that Mr Binnie
is leaving for Singapore in the Autumn and could visit the
site in order to inspect the foundations as revealed by the
/further
4/2853/30
further exploratory work about the middle of October. The
Consulting Engineers would not propose to make any additional
charge for this visit beyond the travelling expenses incurred
between Singapore and Hong Kong, and hotel and out-of-pocket
expenses in Hong Kong. In view of the magnitude of the
proposed dam, and the importance of the foundations being
suitable, we are strongly of the opinion that Mr. Binnie
should be asked to visit the site and satisfy himself that
the foundations are in all respects suitable for a dam of
the height proposed.
With our letter of the 18th September, we
enclosed a copy of a letter dated 17th September which we had received from Sir Alex. Binnie Son and Deacon outlining the
fees they would propose to charge for acting as Consulting
Engineers on two alternative assumptions, depending upon the
measure of responsibility they will be called upon to accept and the amount of detailed work they will be expected to
carry out. We suggested that a decision on this point could
be deferred until Mr. Gourley had discussed the matter with
the Colonial Government. We do not know to what extent the
Colonial Government wish to rely upon the advice of the
Consulting Engineers in the future, but we think that in any
case the Consulting Engineers should be entrusted with the
design of the dam and should be called upon to accept full
responsibility for its stability.
10. The Consulting Engineers draw attention in
paragraph 19 of their report to the necessity of modernising the existing distribution system, and in paragraph 20 to the desirability of revising the existing ordinance which governs the waterworks undertaking.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
Dr. Brosheet.
FOR CROWN AGENTS.
DUPLICATE COPY.
The Crown Agents for the Colonies,
↳ Millbank,
Westminster, S.W.1.
B. 254/12.
HONG KONG water.
SIR ALEX BINNIE, SON &
CHARTERED Civil EngineERS.
ARTILLER" HOUSE,
ARTILLERY ROW.
WESTMINSTER, 5. V. 1.
1st April 1931.
By your letter E.254/12 of the 13th October 1930
we were requested to arrange for our partner, Mr. Gourley,
to visit the Colony with a view to his making a general
inspection and examination of the Shing Mun Scheme, inspection
of dam sites, and to report and advise on the general scheme.
Mr. Gourley arrived in Hong Kong on January 9th
last and left on the 31st. During this time he inspected
the whole of the existing sources of supply, and the exten-
sions in progress on both the Island and the Mainland: the
area of supply was examined, also the Shing Fun Valley and
the country adjacent thereto which will serve as the collect-
ing ground for catchwater extensions of the Shing Mun Scheme.
In addition to his visits of inspection, Mr.
Gourley has been furnished by Mr. Hender on and other officers
of the Waterworks Department, with all the statistical and
other information for which he has asked.
We have pleasure in reporting as follows:-
ISLAND RESOURCES.
There are six impounding reservoirs with a gross
capacity of 2,118 million gallons, which are fed by 3,222
acres of direct and indirect catchment.
We have made our own estimate of the present main-
tainable yield of these sources and, altogether, it amounts
to 8.25 million gallons a day 8.25 M.G.D.
On the completion of the Aberdeen Works as set out
in Sessional Paper 4/1928 Page II, the total storage will be
increased to 2,408 million gallons and the catchment area to
4,672 acres with an estimated corresponding maintainable
yield of 10 ̊80 M.G.D.
On the completion of the remaining works
catchwaters
-only set out in the above-mentioned Sessional Paper, the
total catchment area will become 6,051 acres, and the total
maintainable yield of the Island Works will be 1285 M.G.D.
We are of opinion that with the completion of the
works mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the total resources
capable of economical development will have become exhausted,
and that further supplies must come from the Mainland.
Island Requirements.
The difficulty of forecasting the water requirements
is not lessened by the knowledge that in only four complete
years -1908, 1919, 1920 and 1921 since 1906 has a full and un-
restricted supply been given, due to the fact that the con-
struction of new works has never kept pace with increasing
consumption and at times has been seriously in arrears.
From a detailed investigation of the past records
it appears that had there been no restrictions during 1930
the consumption of that year would have been 10*80 M.G.D.
or 3,940 million gallons per annum.
For the next 15 years we consider that a conserv
tive estimate of annual increase would be 100 M.G. so that
by the end of 1945 the consumption will be 5,440 M.G. or
14.90 M.G.D.
It must be borne in mind that steadily, though
possibly slowly, the standard of living is rising, and
although today the percentage of the population for which
water-borne sewage disposal is available is small, this
percentage must increase, and the general adoption of this
system would add 20 to 30 per cent. to the water consumption.
In Paragraph 7 we have given the total available
resources of the Island as 12'85 M.G.D., so that in some
seven years time it will be necessary to supplement the
local resources by Mainland water.
Filters.
We observed that in the Peak District there were
a number of houses within the catchment area which, under
. normal conditions and unless completely sewered, would not
be considered satisfactory from a Vaterworks Engineer's
point of view. As all the water is filtered and chlorinated
there would appear to be no reason why further building under
suitable restrictive conditions should not be allowed,
provided that the present rural character of the district
is maintained.
At present there are slow sand filters capable
of dealing with 6°3 M.G.D., and rapid gravity filters with
a capacity of 3'0 M.G.D., and on completion of the Elliot
rapid filters the total capacity will be 13'3 M.G.D.
Allowing for seasonal fluctuations, the total filtering
capacity necessary for the ultimate yield of the Island
resources should be 20% in excess of 15'4 M.G.D.
We should therefore recommend that approval be
given to the proposal for converting the 2 M.G.D. slow sand
filter units at Albany into rapid gravity units with a
capacity of 4 M.G.D. The estimated value of the land render-
ed available for building purposes after the new filters have
been placed in commission would be more than the cost of new
construction.
Services Reservoirs.
The total capacity of the various service reservoirs
18 19 85 M.G., which would appear to be reasonable for today's
requirements, but further capacity will undoubtedly be required
as the demand increases. "A usual provision is two days'
storage of the average annual daily supply, but in this case,
owing to the skilful way in which the various sources of
supply are being interlocked, a somewhat smaller storage is
The construction of the Garden Service Reservoir
permissible.
at an early date would remedy the deficiency and incidentally
put the supply via the Harbour Pipe Line on a satisfactory
General.
The supply of an area having a range of elevation
from practically sea level to 1,750 feet above sea level is
necessarily difficult, and somewhat high pressures in the
lower parts of the various zones are not easy to avoid.
Whilst on the basis of the estimated population of 448,000 in
1930 which figure may be liable to relatively large error -
the rate, inclusive of municipal services and trade supplies,
of 24 gallons per head per day, may not be considered unduly
high, we would recommend the introduction of a system of water
meter detection in the most populous areas as the means of
conserving to the utmost the resources of the Island.
We are aware that the metering of individual
supplies is increasing, but what we now suggest would detect
losses in the distribution system as well as in the house
services. As many of the mains in the City are of small
diameter and have reached obsolescence, the distribution
system must be modernised before an effective scheme of waste
detection can be brought into operation.
There is one other matter which should be mentioned
as a further essential measure to assist in the conservation
of water. The Ordinance which governs the activities of the
Waterworks Undertaking
and which regulates the nature of the
Fittings and Plumbing is No. 16 of 1903. An examination of
this document shows that it is in many respects quite
inapplicable to modern conditions, and we should therefore
recommend that a revision of the Ordinance and its regulations
be made at an early date, using as a basis the Model Byelaws
of the Ministry of Health.
MAINLAND RESOURCES.
There are two impounding reservoirs on the Kowloon
side with a gross capacity of 469 M.G. which are fed by 1,290
acres of direct and indirect catchment.
We estimate the maintainable yield of these
sources to be 2'7 M.G.D.
When the Kowloon Reservoir is completed in a few
months' time, the maintainable yield will be increased to
3.0 M.G.D.
In addition to these sources there are the waters
of the Shing Mun which are brought into the Reception reservoir
adjacent to the Kowloon Reservoir. We can accept Mr.
Henderson's figure of 3 M.G.D. as the yield of this source
with a simple intake.
6.0 M.G.D.
The total resources of the Mainland are now
Mainland Requirements.
Although there were no restrictions from 1906 to
1921 inclusive, any figures based upon the rate of increase
of consumption in that period would be entirely insufficient.
Having regard to the potentialities for development and the
increase of consumption between 1928 and 1930 two years in
which there were no restrictions we would take 160 M.G.
per annum as a conservative figure of increase for the next
fifteen years.
The consumption for 1930, including the Water Boat Station, waв 1,654 M.G. or 4'65 M.G.D.
By 1936 the requirements will have reached 2,654 M.G.
per annum or 7°3 M.G.D., and by 1945 the estimated requirements
will be 4,094 M.G. per annum or 11'2 M.G.D.
Filters.
The slow sand filters are capable of dealing with
2.9 M.G.D., and the rapid gravity filters recently completed,
bring the total capacity up to 7'9 M.G.D. or, to cover seasonal fluctuation, to 6'5 M.G.D. as an average annual figure.
This capacity gives a small margin over the yield
of the existing sources and is equal to the estimated require-
ment for 1934.
As the Administration Building at the Shek Lai Pui
Rapid Filters will serve the second instalment of filter units,
we would recommend that the arrangements for the completion of
that second instalment of 5 M.G.D. capacity be initiated so as to permit of the filters being available as soon as possible.
Service Reservoirs.
The total available capacity of the various
service reservoirs on the Mainland, including the one now
practically complete at Shek Lai Pui, is 15 15 M.G., which
will be sufficient to meet the estimated requirements for
the next six years.
The construction of another service reservoir
should be put in hand at about that time, but as the large
storage in Shek Lai Pui is somewhat remote from the area of
supply, it is desirable that local service reservoirs should
be constructed to suit developments.
General.
The estimated population for 1930 for Kowloon
is 178,000, and the corresponding rate per head is 26 gallons
per diem. This figure compares with 24 gallons on the
Island, and is a measure of the way in which the rate per
head must increase as housing conditions improve.
NEW WORKS.
We have shown that for 1936 the maintainable yield
of the Island sources of supply will equal, the estimated
requirements, and by the same year the maintainable yield of
the Mainland sources will fall short of the estimated require-
ments by 13 M.G.D.
To avoid restrictions of supply in the event or
sequence of critically dry years, it will therefore be
necessary to have further sources available in time for the
rains of 1935.
Shing Mun Scheme.
This brings us to the consideration of the scheme
outlined in the report by Mr. Henderson of the 8th April 1924
and his further report of the 31st March 1930 which deals more
particularly with the works of the second instalment of that
The works of the first instalment, as set out in
Mr. Henderson's further report have, with the approval of the
Secretary of State, been completed with the exception of the
Public Gardens Service Reservoir (Hong Kong), though, we might
observe in passing, that had we concluded that the Shing Mun
Scheme was not the best solution, then a considerable proportion
of the works of the first instalment might have been of no
After our various inspections of the Valley and the
adjacent country we can, however, say that the scheme in
principle is good, that all the works which have been completed
as the first instalment are necessary and are well laid out, and
that, with the modifications to which we will refer later, it
forms the most economical means of securing the additional
water required to meet, not only the needs of the next fifteen
years, but also of a much longer period.
This source also has the great advantage, and
consequent economy, of giving a large augmentation of
gravitational water when fully developed on the lines we would
recommend.
We examined the site of the Shing Mun Village Dam,
and agree with Mr. Henderson that this is not a favourable site.
We also inspected the Shing Mun Gorge Dam site,
and so far as were able to examine the rock exposures in
the gorge itself, in the trial trenches already made, and
in others which were made during our visit, our investigation
leads us to the conclusion that with careful design and
good workmenship, a masonry dan safely to impound water to
a level of about 625 feet above datum, could be constructed
at this site. In view of the magnitude of the structure,
it will be necessary most fully to explore the foundation
conditions before our final recommendation can be made, and
we gathered that this exploratory work would be promptly
put in hand. Apart from the question of foundation con-
ditions, full particulars of rock levels throughout the area
of the base of the dam will be necessary before the drawings,
specification and bill of quantities can be prepared.
Although the urgency of bringing in additional
water is great, we feel that no effort should be spared
thoroughly and completely to investigate the conditions at
the site of the Shing Mun Gorge Dam: the more thoroughly
this is done the less the risk of unforeseen additions
either in design or estimates.
As Mr. Henderson rightly observes, the Shing
Mun Valley should be developed to the utmost. To store
water to a depth of 175 feet, and a top water level of 600 above datum would give a storage of 2,000 million gallons: the addition of 25 feet would increase the capacity by about
1,000 million gallons. The dam in either case, whilst not
being of record height and cross section, would nevertheless
be such as to put the structure into the class of high dams
of which relatively few have been constructed, and in which
the problens of design are of a much more onerous and
responsible nature than those involved in ordinary dass, of which those already constructed in the Colony are typical.
In addition to the main dam a subsidiary dam
would be required to close the gap at Pineapple Pass.
The direct catchment area to the reservoir would
be 2,900 acres, and we estimate the maintainable yield of
the reservoir to be 9-25 M.G.D., so that upon its completion an additional 6*25 M.G.D. will become available.
Should a period of dry weather set in before the
dam is completed there would be no difficulty in impounding sufficient water to make good the deficiencies in the
present sources of supply.
The total estimated requirements for Hong Kong and Kowloon in 1945 amount to 26°10 M.G.D., and on the completion of the Shing Mun Reservoir the resources will
be 25'10, so that no further extensions should be required
until about that date if the assumed annual increments of
demand are not exceeded.
It is for the future extensions of this scheme
thắt we have considered it desirɛble to modify Mr. Henderson'
proposals. In doing so, we had before us the latest informa- tion with regard to Gin Drinkers Bay which was not then avail- able to him, and were impressed with the necessity for the
utmost development of the high level sources.
The total
direct and indirect catchment area of the gravitation portion of Mr. Henderson's scheme amounts to some 6,150 acres: the
scheme we recommend has a corresponding figure of 9,000 acres
with a possibility of bringing in a further 1,300 acres.
As the necessity arises, a catchwater running along
the southerly flank of the Tai Mo Shan Range at a level of
about 700 above datum, could be constructed to deliver water
into the Shing Mun Reservoir at Pineapple Pass.
This catchwater would drain some 2,800 acres and
add about 4 M.G.D. to the yield of the scheme.
A subsequent development would be to lead into the
reservoir by catchwater the run-off from some 60 acres lying above the 700 contour and to the east of the reservoir, with
the consequent addition of about 1 M.G.D.
The penultimate development would be to run a
catchwater along the northern flank of the Tai No Shan and
also the northern and eastern slopes of Grassy and Needle Hills, which form the north-easterly boundary of the reservoir basin, at a level of 1,000, and to bring this into the
reservoir basin by a tunnel under Lead Mine Pass at a level of 650 feet. This catchwater would drain about 2,700 acres and add about 31 M.G.D. to the yield of the reservoir.