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neighbouring houses, that is to say, this provision goes one
step further than the closing order. A closing order is intended
to protect those who might otherwise have been inmates, while
this power is intended to protect outsiders who might be passing
by or standing near premises in a dilapidated and dangerous
condition. It does not appear, however, that such a condition
of things exists in the present case.
There may be cases, as I have said before, where it would
be advisable to proceed under the Housing of the Working
Classes Acts, but so far as my information goes, the present
does not appear to be such a case.
I therefore in this case recommend the Council to proceed
as before, namely, under the Public Health Act.
In conclusion, I would point out that the cases under which
dwelling-houses may be closed are more numerous under the
Public Health Act than under the Housing of the Working
Classes Acts.
Under the latter Acts dwelling-houses can only be closed if
their state or condition is so dangerous or injurious as to be
unfit for human habitation. This would not appear to include,
among other things, cases of overcrowding, absence of water
fittings, or absence of water supply, whereas under the Public
Health Act, closing orders may be obtained in all these cases.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
Paul Caudwell.