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26
The table and graph clearly show that the power stations are mainly responsible for the atmospheric
pollution in their areas, and it is significant that the deposits are heavier near the power stations which are
older and have not the advantage of modern equipment. The amount of sulphur dioxide deposited on the
gauge at Minet Gardens was in many months appreciably higher than that at the Town Hall.
The Council had meetings with officers of the London Transport Board and discussed methods for
reducing the nuisance from the Neasden Power Station. Arrangements were made for the Council's
officers to meet the Chief Engineer at the Power Station to determine what further progress could be made.
A special sub.committee of the Public Health Committee has been appointed to deal with smoke
nuisances and the possibility of having "smokeless zones" in the Borough.
Undoubtedly the amount of atmospheric pollution generally is increasing, and we are reaching the
stage where it is just as great a menace to health as bad drains were in the past. And yet much less is being
done today for the removal of this danger as compared with the efforts made in the past to improve water
supply and drainage.
Clearly, the nation is suffering from this smoke menace. Many millions of tons of coal are being
wasted and being emitted from our chimneys only to cause more damage in buildings, increased need for
washing, and what is most important, the deterioration of health of the people. Surely money spent on
preventive measures would pay handsome dividends in better and cleaner air and better health standards.