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22
to steam and the provision of bathrooms for the diphtheria block
Later in the year the question of the ward block and the provision
of a new mortuary were referred to a Special Committee for
inquiry and report, and since then (January, 1908) these absolutely
necessary works have been decided on.
I trust that there will be found no occasion for further
delaying their execution.
The fact that the hospital rate for 1906-7 was 4.2d. in the
pound had, I have no doubt, some influence in causing the postponement
for a time of the decision to realise these projects.
But this rate of 4.2d. was actually exceeded in the
year 1899-1900, and would not have been reached in 1906-7
but for the expensive and severe prevalence of diphtheria during
1906, and the very great administrative difficulties that arose as a
direct consequence of the insufficient accommodation available late
in 1906. It should not be forgotten too that during 1906-7 there
were special charges not likely to recur annually, and also that the
"hospital" is something more than a "hospital," being also the
disinfecting station for the whole district.
The new ward block is needed in order that recurring outbreaks
of scarlet fever and diphtheria may be dealt with without
fear of cross-infection, and in order that mixed cases, doubtful cases,
and cases of disease other than scarlet fever or diphtheria may be
Properly isolated, without danger to themselves or others, and
without the administrative waste that is the inevitable result of
attempting to do without what is necessary.