As Professor Simpson's return has been postponed, we have time to consult him. Harry Blake and I would suggest that this should be done.
The Colonial Government is clearly entitled to have the report without delay, but at the same time we need to avoid hurrying Professor Simpson's work.
There is no need to comment on the enclosed memorandum. As I believed, it is the housing that is at the root of the whole matter (our para 4 memo 2).
No./20. Hongkong. 449 17376 Government House 5 MAY 12, Hongkong, 1st April, 1902.
Sir,
With reference to your telegram of 15th ultimo and to the investigations which Professor Simpson is carrying on in this Colony in connection with bubonic plague,
I have the honour to inform you that it appears very necessary to act, but the problem is extremely complicated.
I have spoken to Sir H. Blake and we have sent a telegram asking you to tell Prof. Simpson that the Secretary of State would be glad if he would furnish his report to the Government some time before he leaves the Colony.
1. It is understood that Professor Simpson's report should be forwarded to this Government before his departure from the Colony, which has been postponed till the end of June.
2. It is obviously desirable that the local Government should have an opportunity of studying the Report whilst Professor Simpson is still in the Colony and of considering and discussing with him any recommendations he may have to offer before he leaves.
3. I have, therefore, instructed Professor Simpson to furnish me with his report in time to afford ample opportunity for its full consideration and discussion before he starts for England.
4. Professor Simpson, while prepared to fall in with my suggestions in this matter, has pointed out that he has received no instructions to send in a report locally.
5. In order to prevent any misunderstanding...
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN, M.P.,