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94
The Public Health (Smoke Abatement) Act, 1926,
which came into force on the 1st July, 1927, made
some slight alterations in the law with regard to
smoke nuisances, and provided for the making of bylaws
which, when framed and in operation, may lead
to some improvement in this matter. The real difficulty,
however, is the continued use of untreated coal for
domestic and industrial uses alike.
The public cannot realise the serious damage
caused directly and indirectly by the present polluted
state of the atmosphere. This is particularly harmful
in a congested area like Bethnal Green, where children
and adults alike need the maximum amount of sunlight
and fresh air as some mitigation of their bad
housing conditions. The means whereby these benefits
can be secured are known. The use of gas or electricity
would enormously reduce both the pollution of the air
and the heavy burden of domestic labour caused by
coal fires. Even those who cling to the open coal fire
on sentimental grounds can press the demand for
smokeless coal and coke, which ought with further
research and greater public demand, to become as cheap
and effective as crude coal. It is to be hoped, in the
interests of public health, that much more attention
and constructive effort will be given to this important
subject.
RATS AND MICE (DESTRUCTION) ACT, 1919.
No formal notices were served under the Act
during the year, but an abstract of the requirements
of the Act was posted in the Borough. A number of
complaints as to rat infestation have been investigated
and dealt with and occupiers of premises have been
advised in the matter. Poor occupiers have been
assisted by the supply of rat poison, 170 tins
of treated biscuits and 68 bottles of Squill being
issued in this way. The investigation of rat complaints
has in many cases led to the discovery and repair of