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The crude death rate was 13.5 as compared with 12.3 for the
previous year. In comparing with other districts or the country
as a whole It Is necessary to take into consideration the age and
sex distribution of the population and for this purpose the
Registrar General gives a comparability factor. Using this factor
the death rate In Bethnal Green Is to be taken as 14.5 as compared
with 12.5 for England and Wales.
The Infantile Mortality Rate, or the deaths of children
under 1 year of age per 1,000 live births, was 22.5 as compared
with 28.5 during the previous year and with 29.6 for the whole of
England and Wales In 1951. This Is a very satisfactory figure
but It must be remembered that when dealing with such small
numbers as 22 Infant deaths, a single death can materially alter
the rate and consequently too much reliance should not be placed
on this figure as an Indication of the standard of child care in
the Borough.
Prom a perusal of the records there is much evidence of the
assistance which was forthcoming from the Council and from the
Public Health Committee in particular and of the high standard of
work carried out by the staff of the Public Health Department. I
feel sure that Dr. Donovan would have wished me to add his thanks
to the Members of the Council and to the Staff.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
R. DUNCAN DEWAR,
Medical Officer of
Health