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116
The number of empty houses in the borough at the end of the
year was 8.5 per cent. of the whole number.
In addition to the 113 cases of overcrowding discovered by house
to house inspection, 17 others were reported to the department on
information or complaint.
It is extremely difficult to know how to deal effectively and
satisfactorily with the matter.
The practice in Finsbury has been to allow the tenants most
ample time to get rooms elsewhere. The cases are visited from
time to time and pressure is exerted to securing the abatement
of the overcrowding.
Where overcrowding is associated with cases of phthisis or
infectious disease, abatement is required forthwith.
CUSTOMS AND INLAND REVENUE ACTS.
By the provisions of the Customs and Inland Revenue Act,
1890, Section 26, and of the Revenue Act, 1903, Section 11, it is
possible for the owner of houses of a certain class to obtain exemption
from Inhabited House Duty provided the Medical Officer
of Health is prepared to certify that the properties in question are
so constructed as to afford suitable accommodation for each of the
families or persons dwelling therein and that due provision is
made for their sanitary requirements.
By the Housing and Town Planning Act, 1909, Section 35, this
concession is extended to lodging houses for the working classes,
and common lodging houses, provided the charge does not exceed
sixpence a night for each person.
In 1910—applications for certificates were received in respect
of 34 houses. Certificates were granted for 6 houses only.
The list of premises for which certificates have been so issued
in past years is appended,