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260
1907]
their responsibilities, as in consequence of so many changes taking place
amongst the employees, and in the absence of printed instructions as to the
methods of scalding the cans, churns, etc,, there is a diversity of opinion on the
subject.
With respect to the milk shops, of which there were 530 at the date of my
inspection, I found that in 39 cases the premises were either no longer used as
milkshops, or that the sale of milk had been discontinued. It frequently
happens that, after application for registration has been made and the applicant
registered for the sale of milk, the business changes hands, and the incoming
tenant continues selling milk, being nnder the impression that as the previous
occupier was registered, no further action on his part is necessary.
The Council recently, in accordance with the "Dairies, Cowsheds and Milkshops
Order, 1885," gave public notice by advertisements in newspapers circulating
in the Borough of registration being required and of the mode of
registration. There is, therefore, no excuse for persons selling milk without
being registered.
I certainly think that if the regulations imposed a fee for registration, it
would not only be the means of greater respect being shown by those persons
who apply to be registered, but it would cause a great many small general
shopkeepers to hesitate before they sold milk.
Of the 491 milkshops, mora than one-half of them are general shops where
paraffiin and other oils, candles, soap and other commodities are stored in close
proximity to the counter pan or can (supplied by the dairyman). I have found
in 52 instances these utensils more or less in a dirty state, and oftener than not
the counter pan, not only in the milkshops, but in dairies as well, uncovered,
and in several cases flies and dust were in the milk. I am glad to state, however,
that in each district the Inspector has been able to persuade the purveyors
to provide a cover of thin muslin or some other light material which assists in
preventing the milk being contaminated in the manner I have mentioned.
I am of opinion that the regulations are in need of amendment, more
especially in respect of milk being sold in such places as I have referred to.
It is only fair to state that of the 532 dairies and milkshops, 410 of them were
free from complaint as to the condition of the utensils.
I discovered that 34 new measures were required, those in use being very
much worn; 56 premises needed repairs, cleaning, etc., and in 19 cases the
arrangements for cleansing the cans, etc., were unsatisfactory.
After each day s inspection I caused a communication to be sent to the
occupier of the premises where infringements had taken place. This necessitated
135 letters being written, which I am pleased to say have had a great
effect.
In conclusion, I feel sure that the dairies and milkshops within the
Borough will in future, with the suggestions that have been made as to
cleanliness, etc., be in a much better condition.
I am,
Yours faithfully,
James R. Leggatt,
Superintendent and Chief Sanitary Inspector.