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61
In the case in question the facts were reported
to the representative of the Netherlands Government
in this country and also to the Fishmongers'
Company.
I enclose a copy of my annual report for 1908,
which deals, on page 112, with the question of mussel
pollution, while my views on the pollution of
shell fish generally are set out on page 93 of my
annual report for last year, a copy of which is also
sent herewith.
Yours truly,
W. Collingridge.
Extract from Dr. Collingridge's Report for 1908.
"I had occasion, in 1903, to direct attention to
the danger incurred in the consumption of mussels
derived from polluted sources. In the course of
that year, out of 11 samples taken in Billingsgate
Market and neighbourhood, no less than 10 were
found to be sewage-contaminated. Seven of the
polluted samples having been imported from
Holland, the Fishmongers' Company co-operated
with the Netherlands Government with a view to a
thorough investigation being made of the conditions
under which they were cultivated and exported to
this country. At the present time it is the custom
of the wholesale dealers in the City, who purchase
shell fish from Holland, to see that each consignment
is accompanied by an official certificate, issued
by the Netherlands Authorities, to the effect that the
produce is derived from unpolluted sources."