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6
The food shops in Hampstead and the manner in which food
is handled and dealt with can be regarded with some satisfaction
and it compares favourably with other areas. In spite of the
occasional lapses and the few unsatisfactory conditions found, the
improvement in the standard of food hygiene is a credit to the
trade and it fully justifies the Council's action in creating a post
of Specialist Food Inspector in 1957.
I am much indebted to the Public Analyst, Mr. E. Voelcker,
for his continuing advice on all food matters.
Progress in health education has been good, the number of
lectures and talks given has been increased and there is a greater
willingness amongst the various organisations to assist in providing
audiences.
The other sections do not call for special comment here
but mention must be made of the Report of the Royal Commission
on Local Government in Greater London which was published in
the autumn. It would be inappropriate to comment here on the
possible effects in Hampstead of the recommendations on Health
matters which are in the Report, but however one may view the
recommendations and whatever action the Government may take on
the Report, one cannot but admire the penetrating analysis which
it contains and be encouraged by the views expressed on local
government generally.
I am grateful to the Chairman and Members of the Public
Health Committee for their help and encouragement, and to the
Chief Officers and their staffs for their willing assistance at all
times. I am much indebted to my deputy, Dr. M. McQuaid and
to my staff as a whole. The Chief Clerk and the Chief Public
Health Inspector have greatly assisted in the preparation of this
Report but all the members of the staff have throughout the year
contributed to making the Public Health Department one of which
I can be proud to be the Chief Officer.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
R. DUNCAN DEWAR,
Medical Officer of Health.