asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether it would be possible to effect an economy in naval expenditure at Hong Kong by amalgamating the naval and military hospitals; and, in view of the fact that the naval hospital is very near to the reclamation being carried out in the harbour and of the very high price of land ruling in the colony, if he will consider the advisability of disposing of the site of the present naval hospital, for which a large sum of money could be obtained?

This question was carefully considered by the Board of Admiralty 12 months ago, and later came under the review of the Committee appointed by the late Government to consider the amalgamation of services common to the Navy, Army, and Air Force. The conclusion arrived at was that there would not be a sufficient margin of accommodation if amalgamation were to take place. This would especially be the case as regards officers; the military hospital at Hong Kong having only six equipped beds for officers.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman fully aware of the sum which could be obtained for the site of the present naval hospital, and that it would be sufficient to build another one and have some money in hand?

I am afraid I am unable to answer that question.