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30
The fact that only a few additional water closets have
been required is no doubt due to the old Tenement House Byelaws
which were energetically enforced in Hampstead during the
years immediately preceding World War II.
As the Survey progressed it became abundantly clear that
unless a scheme was evolved whereby families could be rehoused
such items as additional bathrooms or even, in fact, a single
bathroom in those properties not so equipped, would be almost
impossible to attain. Nevertheless such provision was continually
pressed, but in most instances the requirements have
had to be left in abeyance until such time as the owner obtains
possession or part possession when they will become obligatory.
Another difficulty has been tenant resistance to improvements.
In some 60 cases letters have been received from
tenants stating that they do not require a sink within their
room, a hot water supply over existing sinks or the provision
of a bathroom, As far as possible most of these cases have
been visited in order to ascertain the reasons for refusal.
Generally speaking they appear to fall into three categories:-
(a) ELderly people suspicious or fearful of gas or
electrical appliances.
(b) Suspicion that the provision will affect rent control.
(c) Resistance to rent increase.
In one or two isolated cases tenants objecting under (c)
have subsequently installed their own appliances.
Thirty-six cases of overcrowding have been discovered.
These were mainly the result of natural family increase, and
have been dealt with informally. The owners of the properties
concerned have been cautioned that in the event of the overcrowded
accommodation becoming vacant it must not be re-let so
as again to cause overcrowding.
Experience has taught us that even with the most co-operative
owners, several months must elapse between the service of
a notice and the commencement of the work.
INSPECTION & SUPERVISION OF FOOD.
Food & Drugs Act, 1955. Food Hygiene (General) Regulations,
I960,
Purpose built food supermarkets have continued to multiply
in number, and are obviously now receiving the patronage of a