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12
Therefore, if in Merton, out of each 1,000 of its population,
there were—
(A) 318 people, made up of ages under 5 years and over 45,
(B) 682 „ „ „ „ between 5 and 45 years,
the statistics in Merton and England and Wales would be fairly
comparable, that is to say, if the age periods are in the same
proportion as in 1901.
So far as the age periods go, in my opinion, the statistics are
fairly comparable with the uncorrected rates of the 142 smaller
towns, specially of the suburban towns, of the Registrar
General's return.
Generally speaking, the population is suburban in
character, and there are no industries liable to affect public
health. House accommodation is ample, and the average
number of inhabitants per house is estimated at 4.1 in West
Barnes, 5.2 in Bushey Mead, 4.6 in Merton Park, and 4.8 in
Morden Road. I believe, however, these factors are too low,
and an extended Census, which is intended to be taken this
year, will probably show higher figures.
The majority of the houses are let on weekly tenancies,
with probably the average rental prevailing in that class of
London suburban property.