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37
CLEANSING OF PERSONS ACT, 1897.
Nothing has been done as yet to apply the provisions of this Act
to the district. There is no doubt that the power the Act gives to
the local authority was needed; but I think more is required than a
permissive Act. It should be compulsory both on the part of the
local authority and on the part of those persons whom the Act is intended
to benefit. These latter when discovered and medically
certified to be verminous should be compelled on a magistrate's order
to be cleaned.
The experience of some of the London authorities who have
adopted this Act is most encouraging from a public health point of
view.
In providing the necessary accommodation under this Act, I
make the suggestion that this might be done in connection with the
shelter for persons whose homes are being disinfected.
CUSTOMS AND INLAND REVENUE ACT, 1890.
Five applications by property owners were made to me during
the year to inspect premises under this Act, with a view to claiming
exemption from inhabited house duty. The total number of
tenancies was 79; of these 46 were in a condition to enable me to
give the certificate immediately; 33 however required alterations and
repairs. These being executed to my satisfaction, were then certified
according to the Act.
I must again call attention to the action of the Inland Revenue
authorities in accepting these certificates for the whole assessment
period of five years and to renew my protest against this action.
The reasons for this protest I have given in my last Annual Report.
BYE-LAWS AS TO HOUSES LET IN LODGINGS.
In my last year's report I stated that the Vestry had appointed
two additional inspectors for the purpose of house to house inspection
and the registration of houses let in lodgings. These officers began
their duties in the month of February; one commencing his work