M. Johnson
0.0.
32:00
94
Remind.
A.F
21/1
almen suger
No.
312.
Sir,
IROD
16 SEP
Government House,
Hongkong, 17th August, 1901.
Referring to enclosed cutting from The Daily Press I have the honour to inform you with great regret of a serious catastrophe that occurred on the evening of the 14th instant in the collapse of two old houses involving the loss of 22 lives and the injury of 24 some of whom are lying in hospital in a precarious state. The collapse seems to show a necessity for very close supervision over the erection of buildings hundreds of which are being constructed. Should I find that responsibility rests upon the Government an increase in the Staff will be necessary if the inspection is to be effective as Chinese Contractors are notoriously reckless and unscrupulous in building contracts.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble servant,
Henry A. Blake
Governor, &c.
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE
JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN, M.P.
BcC...