I am myself averse to the granting of special privileges of any kind to a particular branch of the Service, and I would prefer to make a corresponding increase in the pay, whereby the appointment would appear more attractive to those who propose to enter the Colonial Service. If however the privilege of free Medical Attendance is granted to the Colonial Medical officers, I am of opinion that a like privilege should be extended to the subordinate staff, on the grounds that their continuous daily duties bring them into constant contact with patients from whom they may contract disease. I think however that the privilege should be limited to the individuals themselves and to treatment in hospital excluding private quarters.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient,
humble servant,
J. Shing an
Governor, &c.
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