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It will be observed that the sulphur readings in South
Kensington continued higher than those for North Kensington
throughout the period, thus supporting the view that South
Kensington is adversely affected by the power stations south
of the borough boundary.
Smoke Measuring Stations
At their meeting on 22nd September, 195U» the Committee
authorised the establishment of three smoke measuring stations.
Unfortunately? there was a delay in obtaining the necessary
equipment, and three essential components were not delivered
until May, 1955.
Arrangements have been made for these stations to be set
up at the Public Library, Ladbroke Grove; the Public Health
Department, Hornton Street, and at the London County Council
Welfare Centre, Redcliffe Street, and it is expected that
readings will commence in June, 1955«
Action taken in regard to smoke nuisances •
During the year, there were twelve complaints of smoke
nuisance, as a result of which forty-one observations were
made. Remedial measures were secured in all cases by informal
action,,
Burial of the Dead
Section 50 of the National Assistance Act, 19U8,
imposes on the Council the duty to arrange for the burial or
cremation of any person who dies, or is found dead, within
the borough, where no suitable private arrangements are made
for the disposal of the remains. The Council have authorised
the Medical Officer of Health to make arrangements for the
burial of any person to whom it applies.
Since the 5th July, 19U8, the Council have arranged the
burial of 2&U persons under Section 50, which also empowers the
Council to recover the funeral expenses from a liable relative
or the estate.
The work involves visiting and examining rooms (not
necessarily in Kensington, and sometimes while the body is
still there); making inventories; searching for Wills, tracing
next-of-kin, taking possession of money, valuables, insurance
policies, etc; interviewing relatives and others; interviewing
hospital authorities, registrars and police, and dealing with
correspondence, etc. Most of these cases are destitute and
friendless, and the rooms are often indescribably filthy and
infested.
In the twelve months ended 31st December, 195U, the
Council became responsible for the burial of thirty-six
persons dying in the borough. The following is a summary
of the action taken :-