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9
Royal College of Physicians, in October, published a study on this
subject and a precis of their findings and recommendations appears
in the main report. Despite the irrefutable evidence of the dangers
of cigarette smoking the tobacco manufacturers show no disposition
to take any serious measures to reduce the consumption of tobacco
among the vulnerable age groups. Indeed the contrary is true.
I venture to suggest that there has been more money spent on
publicity and advertising this year than in any previous year and
even further inducements are being considered. Already there is
an indication that the main manufacturers are including gift tokens
and other direct and indirect bribes to increase tobacco sales. One
can only hope that the modest efforts of health authorities in bringing
the facts about cigarette smoking to public notice will have
some effect on tobacco consumption especially among the younger
generation. Irksome smoking restrictions in places of entertainment
and on public transport act only as irritants to the public
who, in a free society must be allowed to make their own choice in
matters which affect them solely as individuals.
Legislation coming into force during the year has been
included in the report but a brief word must be said about the
new Housing Act, 1961. This Act gives valuable new powers to
local authorities particularly in regard to houses in multiple occupation
or occupied by members of more than one family. Certain
discretion is now given to local authorities to prescribe maximum
numbers of occupants and to insist on reasonable standards of
amenities in order to prevent or alleviate squalid conditions. As
yet there is no indication that such houses constitute a serious
problem in our Borough but isolated cases do come to our attention
where conditions are appalling and where the new powers given to
the authority will be of great assistance.
I would commend to readers the chapters on food inspection
and the progress which is being made in extending Smoke Control
areas. It is hoped to cover the whole Borough by 1970 and great
efforts will be made to meet that target.
Services for the old people continue to expand and improve.
Another lady visitor was engaged and there are now three Public
Health Officers in the department, one of whom has important
inspectorial duties relating to hygiene. The new Bathing Station
was opened in October and a full description of the building and
its services has been included. It is a fine building, well designed,
and is proving of immense value to the Borough.
Many people have made notable contributions to this report.
Figures relating to the personal health services have been kindly