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But there is still much to be done to further the education of
the average citizen in these matters. Unfortunately, this work
has been hampered owing to the limitation of the present
statutory powers, but there is every prospect, with the passing of
the General Powers Bill to be introduced by the London County
Council shortly, that this limitation will disappear, and the provision
in the Bill for publication of information relating to health
and disease will go far to enlighten the individual what is required
of him to maintain good health.
A very important memorandum, issued in 1925 by the
Minister of Health, on the provisional proposals for Poor Law
Reform, makes it clear that the Central Authority are anxious
to deal with matters of public health administration and provide
legislation for further public health progress.
The future of preventive medicine seems to be more assured
than ever, and there only remains to be established a closer
relationship between the fields of cure and preventive medicine.
The general death rate for the Borough in 1925 was 11.1, as
compared with 11.4 for the previous year. The infantile mortality
rate also shows improvement, a decline from 70 per thousand
births in 1924 to 64.7 last year.
A further fall in the birth rate has also to be recorded, the
rate for last year being 17.7.
In conclusion, I desire to take this opportunity to express
my thanks to the Chairmen and Members of the Public Health,
Maternity and Child Welfare and Housing Committees for their
consideration and support during the year, and to the staff of the
Department for their loyalty and assistance, which has been
invaluable to me in the performance of my duties as Medical
Officer of Health.
I am, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
HOWELL W. BARNES,
Medical Officer of Health.