I call request your attention to Dr. Atkinson's proposal in the last paragraph of his minute, for an amendment of Ordinance 24 of 1887, which consideration.
4. You have asked the question of the Constitution of the Sanitary Board engaged the attention of myself, the Judges, and myself for some time, and in my despatch No. 236 of the 6th November, 1896, informed Sir William Robinson that the matter might, in my opinion, stand over for the consideration of his successor.
In connexion with that question, I enclose a copy of a letter to the War Office suggesting that the matter should be reopened under the Board, and I have to say I am disposed to concur in that view.
But I would ask the question especially you to consider the new and difficult and important subject of Sanitation in Hongkong.
MINUTE. As soon as you can find time, I should be glad if you would consider this matter.
To Mr. Antrobus, Mr. Cox, Mr. Lucas, Mr. Graham, Sir E. Wingfield, Earl of Selborne, Mr. Chamberlain.
I enclose a copy of a letter from the War Office, copy of which is enclosed for your observation.
The subject is difficult and important, and I would ask you to give it your most careful consideration, and would be glad if you could do so as soon as possible.