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70
During the latter part of the year it was found that the number of
patients attending the two weekly sessions of the Ante-Natal Clinic
was so large that it would be necessary to have a third session, in
order that the proper amount of attention might be given to each. It
was found possible to arrange for the use of the same rooms on
Thursday morning from 9 a.m. till 12.30 p.m. Better accommodation
is most desirable for this clinic, and a sewing class, with regular
lectures for the mothers whilst they are waiting, is urgently needed.
THE PUBLIC MILK SUPPLY.
The milk supply in Deptford is derived from The United Dairies
"combine," represented by Messrs. Edwards & Sons, Ltd., and R.
Higgs & Sons' Dairies, Ltd. Most of the small retailers get their
milk supply through the " combine." "Outside" companies are (a)
The Royal Arsenal Co-operative Society, Limited, (b) Express Dairy
Company, Limited, (c) Marlow's.
Two firms are licensed to sell certified milk and Grade A milk, viz.,
Messrs. Edwards and R. Higgs.
Milk is supplied through the Clinics and the Town Hall, in
accordance with the Act, to expectant and nursing mothers, infants
and children up to three years, and, on a medical certificate, to children
over three and up to five years. The estimate provides for the
expenditure of £3000 on milk (£3750 less £700 on sales of milk and
drugs). Applicants fill in a form and, after deducting rent, free milk
is given where the family income per head falls below 7s. 6d., half
price is charged if this should be between 7s. 6d. and 10s. 6d. Full
enquiries are made to check the facts stated on the forms, where
necessary. Some sad cases come to the notice of the Committee.
Here is a man, for instance, earning £4 6s. 5d. a week, a fair wage,
comparatively speaking. He has twelve children and has made 24
applications for milk ; the income per head is 5s. 3d. The milk is
necessary. I could quote many cases, men with £l 10s. a week and
five children—all on the free list. What is to be done ? Either pay a
bigger wage or give pensions to super-mothers, or what ? Birth
control ? Many say that a man should not have more children than he
can keep. Again, birth control is frowned upon and continence is
advised. Is it possible or is it advisable, some ask. It certainly seems