38
DRAFT.
For chemicals the Crown Agents deal with the best wholesale houses in this country on the express condition that these firms allow the very best export terms.
It would be well that Dr. Ayres should quote specific instances in which prices have been exorbitant. Until this is done, and full enquiry has resulted I am not inclined to favour a change of system which, even if open to criticism on the ground of expense, has at least secured good articles to the Colonial Government.
4.
In this connexion I may state that reference has been made to the Local Government Board with regard to the disinfectants manufactured by Messrs Calvert and Co. as suggested in your despatch No.239 of the 1st of November; and, as soon as an answer has been received