Cind
develope.
222
Paragraph 5 is answered by the Society of Apothe-
caries. Of course unless second quality medicines were asked
for they would not have been justified in supplying them.
The reply of the Society of Apothecaries to para-
graph G shews the difficulty of instituting comparisons as
to price. Prices constantly vary, a revised list being
published each month, and comparisons must be synchronous
or they are worthless. This continual variation also forms
a serious difficulty in establishing a standing contract.
Drugs stand on a footing different from that of
any other article of supply. They cannot in practice be
effectively inspected either prior to shipment or on arrival,
and the consequences of an inferior consignment may at times
be very serious. We are therefore of opinion, after care-
fully considering the circumstances, that the interests of
all concerned are best guarded by continuing to deal as
heretofore with the Society of Apothecaries, which has
never receded from the highest standard of quality in its
supplies. At the same time we are indebted to the Govern-
ment of Hong Kong for its valuable suggestions.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your Obedient Servant
Mulawern
4.