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157
The following resolution which was adopted on the 8th
May, 1895, may be here cited as embodying the most recent
declaration by your Vestry as to the policy suitable to be
adopted, viz. :—
" That in the opinion of the Vestry, it is desirable that legislation should
" be promoted which shall have the effect of bringing the Undertakings
of the Water Companies which now supply the metropolis,
"under the supervision and inspection, with powers of regulation, of a
" central body representing the Ratepayers, by which, in return for the
" rights conferred on the Companies, and without hampering their
" operations within the area of supply of each, the system of distri"
bution may be rendered thoroughly efficient in all weathers, and
" universally intercommunicating."
Adhering to the opinion expressed in this resolution, your
Vestry addressed a communication to the Royal Commission
setting forth the terms of the above resolution as being the
views of your Vestry on the subject.
The question of water supply is of importance, affecting
as it does the interests of public health, and the material
interests of the people of the Metropolis, and of the surrounding
districts within the areas served by the several Companies.
Constant supply is now nearly universal; and that the public
at large are not seriously dissatisfied with the existing arrangements
may be inferred from the fact that during the year only
one complaint, to be subsequently referred to, was received
in my department with regard to the quality of the water,
and not one as to insufficiency of supply.* Personally, I consider
that, in quality and condition, the water as supplied by
the three local Companies (West Middlesex, Grand Junction,
and Chelsea), is fairly satisfactory. I would not say, great as
* Complaint was made with respect to the water of a well, used for all
purposes, at St. George's-mews. The water was analysed, and being found
to be " polluted with matter partaking of the nature of sewage," and therefore
" unfit for drinking and domestic purposes," proceedings were taken
which resulted in the closure of the well and provision of a supply of water by
the Company.