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158
Report of the Medical Officer of Health.
The total amount of work done under the Sale of Food and
Drugs Acts, although to some extent interrupted by the resignation
of the Inspector, compares favourably with the previous year.
In 1902 the number of samples taken per 1,000 of population was
2.44, while in 1901 this number was 19, while the amount of
adulteration in 1902 was only 87 compared with 13.21.
During the latter part of the year, two female assistants were
engaged twice a week in assisting the Inspector, but since the
appointment of the new Inspector, the services of these have been
dispensed with, and samples have been procured either by the
Inspector himself, or by one of the Council's outdoor employees,
or a member of the disinfecting staff, under his supervision.
In October, 1902, the Council decided to make an important
and necessary alteration in the number of samples to be taken.
Hitherto 600 samples per annum had been the maximum, but
owing to the great increase in the population it was thought that
this was not sufficient, and it was decided to increase the number
to three per thousand of the estimated population. During the
present year, 1903, the number of samples taken will therefore be
about 750, and the numbers will increase as the population
increases.
In conclusion, I am pleased to be able to report that the
whole of the work of the Department was carried out by the
Inspectors and the Clerical Staff to my entire satisfaction.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
P. CALDWELL SMITH.
Medical Officer of Health.