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there is danger of a catastrophe. Moreover, it is extremely
difficult to properly disinfect these boats after the
patients have been removed, and they are therefore liable
to become sources of fresh contagion. Finally the family
of the junk-owner (which remains on board) is liable to
infection.
4.
In these circumstances soon after
my arrival in the Colony I had directed an enquiry as to
what steps might be taken with a view to providing for a
Quarantine Station on land, when the Agents of the Chamber
of Mines Labour Importation Agency intimated that they
were prepared to entertain an offer for their buildings at
Lai-chi-kok.
5.
These buildings are situated on
the site proposed to be built on in 1901 as explained
above. They are composed of corrugated iron with concrete
floors and are capable of accommodating 1,650 persons.
There are also kitchens attached and a small building
intended for a Hospital. The accommodation is considered
by the Principal Civil Medical Officer to be suitable for
the object in view.
The buildings cost, I understand,
some $50,000 and are for the most part in a fair state of
repair.