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for its control were instituted as early as the 13th century. (In 1306,
a Londoner was tried and executed for offending against an Act
passed in 1273). Still, it must be conceded that only since the
London "smog" of 1952 which precipitated the deaths of some
4,000 persons were strenuous efforts made to control smoke emissions and which resulted finally in the passing of the Clean Air
Act, 1956, after the Beaver Committee submitted its report in 1954.
For some time it had been recognised that this Act was in need
of revision. But, during 1967, attempts by means of a private
member's Bill towards securing additional legislation designed to
supplement and improve the existing Clean Air Act proved
abortive although publication of the Report of the Working Party
of Grit and Dust Emission has been followed by the introduction
of Regulations under Section 7(2) of the principal Act.
In the year up to 31st March, 1968, progress throughout the
country in establishing smoke control areas proved more successful
than in the previous three years and, to date, 44.95% of the total
"black areas" premises were smoke controlled. With a figure of
67.98%, Greater London maintains its substantial lead over other
regions. Even so, the percentage for Greenwich at almost 70%
compares more than favourably with both these figures.
Clean Air Act, 1956
Fully operative from 1st June, 1958, this Act contains provisions
relating to the installation of new furnaces, smoke control areas,
height of chimneys, research and publicity, etc., and has, as its aim,
four main purposes:—
(1) To limit smoke from existing sources.
(2) To prevent new sources of industrial smoke.
(3) To minimise dust and grit emission.
(4) For the first time in nationally applied legislation—to brtng
about the progressive elimination of domestic smoke.
Pollution problems concerning the emission of fumes and noxious
gases from industrial premises such as iron and steel works, cement
works, chemical plants, gas works and power stations, etc., come
under the jurisdiction of the Alkali Inspectorate.
In accordance with the Alkali, etc., Works Order, 1958, the
Minister of Housing and Local Government indicated the works
located in the Borough which are subject to the control of the
Alkali Inspector under the Alkali, etc., Works Regulation Act; the
works include such industries as metal smelting and synthesis, gas
works, electricity generation, etc. In these instances, however, it is
understood that the Alkali Act deals only with the particular