C
portation back to their port of departure. So long as the
present immigration policy of the United States is maintained
the medical examination before sailing is indispensable to
the interests both of passengers and transportation companies,
and the security is all the greater if it is performed by
medical officers officially detailed for the purpose.
The appointment of these medical officers is made under
paragraph 2 Section 2 of the Quarantine Act of 15 February
1893 (copy of which is herewith annexed).
Their duties are not only to execute the medical in-
spection of individuals required by the Immigration Act but
also to effect instead of the Consul the formalities in
ragard to the Bill of health of the vessel imposed by the
Quarantine Act.
These Acta
the rmmigration Act and the Quarantine Act
are essential elements in the present regime of the United
States in such matters and no representations from any
Foreign Power as to their modification would be seriously
considered.
In order however to ascertain whether any administrative
change in the arrangement at HongKong could be effected
the Surgeon General was personally approached on the, subject.
Dr. Wyman, who possesses the limitations often noticeable
in specialists when transferred to administrative positions
of responsibility, had some difficulty in realising what was
wanted, or that any exception could be taken to the present
system. He expressed for instance his willingness to make
any changes in personnel, but it was explained that this
would not meet the situation. He said he could not change
the system in any respect but it was pointed out to himthat
under the Statute he had considerable discretion. A sugges-
tion to make the doctors vice-consuls was more to the point
and