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39
contamination. Unfortunately this supply goes to the wealthier
portions of the community. Pure Milk Supply Companies
have been formed in this country, in Paris, and in Copenhagen,
and have proved a great success. Why should not a similar
enterprise succeed in Lewisham, which is in my opinion
particularly suited for such a venture. I believe if a model
farm were started in which the milk was produced under
scientific principles and with scrupulous cleanliness, it would
soon gain public appreciation and support. Care of course
has to be taken that the supply can be sold at the
ordinary rate.
In my opinion, there is no doubt that urgent need
exists for better control over milk supplies, and I think the
more rational and possible methods to be adopted will be
found in the following suggestions:—
The establishment by municipalities of a model farm
and dairy to produce milk under scientific conditions, and
to supply carefully prepared modified milk for infants for
whom breast feeding is impossible. The modified milk
mixtures should be supplied on medical orders. Its gratuitous
supply tends to relieve mothers of their responsibilities and
to encourage artificial feeding.
I believe such a farm would be a financial success if
support were obtained from the managers of public institutions
in the Borough, such as the Infirmary, Workhouse, and
Fever Hospitals, to whom the supply of milk from scientifically
managed farms would be invaluable. It would be a great
benefit to the poorer classes who at present suffer from the
nefarious practices of the itinerant milk-seller, and the polluted
milk obtained from small shop-keepers. It would cause
private individuals and companies who desired to retain the
trade to imitate the model conditions under which the
municipality produced their milk.