CO129-554-14 Alice Memorial and Nethersole Hospitals- proposed rebuilding 18-6-1935 - 18-6-1935 — Page 4

No. 377.

BY AIR MAIL.

Sir,

38

4

I

COVERNMENT HOUSE,

HONG HONG

18th June, 1935.

Carter Exam

With reference to the late Mr. Lyttleton's

despatch No.449 of 17th December, 1903, on the subject of

the Alice Memorial and Nethersole Hospitals, I have the

honour to inform you that an application has been received

from the Chairman of the Executive Committee of these

hospitals for a grant from Government on a dollar for dollar

basis, up to a maximum of $50,000 towards the cost of

rebuilding the Nethersole Hospital.

2.

The Nethersole Hospital was built in 1893. Last

year it had to be pulled down as the building was no longer

safe for habitation. The Committee estimates that it will

cost $200,000 to erect and equip a modern and up-to-date

hospital in its place. They have already collected half

this sum.

They consider, however, and I agree with them,

that in the present state of trade depression, it would be

impossible to raise the balance by private subscriptions

alone in the immediate future. Meanwhile there is a loss

of thirty-four beds, as a result of there being no Nethersole

Hospital, and many applicants, including children, have to

be turned away. Mrs. Wu Ting Fang is again taking a leading

part in the support of these institutions having promised

to donate the sum of $10,000 towards the Building Fund on

condition

THE RIGHT HONOURABLE

MALCOLM MACDONALD, M.P.,

&c.,

&C.,

&c.

2.

5

END

condition that Government makes a dollar for dollar grant up

The Committee considers that it will be able to

to $50,000.

raise the balance.

3. The reputation of these hospitals stands very

high amongst the Chinese community and there can be no doubt that they do splendid work with a minimum of expense.

Both

my Executive Council, and the Finance Committee of Legislative

Council are unanimously in favour of the grant being made.

I should be therefore glad if I might receive by

4.

telegraph your authority to approach the Legislative Council

for a formal vote of the necessary funds.

G

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant

Cod. Southorh

Officer Administering the Government.

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