187096-1932-Minutes-No-1-of-1932 — Page 3

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THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, FEBRUARY 12, 1932.

4. Does the Government consider that the provision for hospital accommoda- tion in Kowloon has kept pace with the development of the peninsula and the amazing growth of its population?

5. What immediate steps are contemplated to remedy the existing insuf- ficiency of hospital accommodation for the urgent needs of Kowloon residents?

6. Will the Honourable the Colonial Secretary state whether Government has any intention, and when, of submitting plans to the Finance Com- mittee of the Council for a further extension of the Kowloon Hospital, in addition to the Maternity Wing, in order to meet the requirements of an emergency arising out of an outbreak of discase in a virulent form?

The Director of Medical and Sanitary Services replied as follows:-

1. The arrangements are not altogether satisfactory but steps have been taken to see that in future a launch will be available to meet an emergency such as the one referred to by the Honourable Member.

2. (a) The question does not arise.

(b) It is recommended that a special ambulance launch be built as soon

as the finances of the Colony permit.

3. The present scheme for control of epidemic disease provides that all Kowloon cases of infectious disease which require hospital isolation and treatment shall be conveyed to the infectious diseases hospital in Victoria. Such being the case no provision has been made for hospital treatment of such cases in Kowloon. The medical and nursing staff when at full strength is adequate to deal with any outbreak of com- municable disease in epidemic form such as was taking place in the Colony at the time these questions were drawn up.

4. Hospital accommodation in Kowloon is inadequate.

5. A new two storied building is nearing completion. It is proposed for the time being to use the upper floor for nurses' quarters and the lower floor for the accommodation of women and children suffering from non infectious diseases.

6. The Government does not propose at present to establish an infectious diseases hospital in Kowloon. Plans for the further extension of the Kowloon Hospital are under consideration and it is hoped that the financial position will permit of definite proposals being brought before the Legislative Council during the current year.

PAPERS.

5. The following papers were laid on the table :-

Notification regarding information as to decorations conferred upon Hong Kong

Residents by His Majesty the King.

Resolution of the Sanitary Board adopted at a meeting of the Board held on

the 24th November, 1931.

Additions to Part I of the List of Authorised Auditors published under the Companies Ordinance, 1911, Ordinance No. 58 of 1911, on 9th December,

1931.

Rule made by the Governor in Council under section 56 (a) of the Trade Marks Ordinance, 1909, Ordinance No. 40 of 1909, on 11th December, 1931.