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mortality rate 128 compared with 52.5. In 1900 there were 123 cases of diphtheria with
13 deaths, 194 of scarlet fever with 7 deaths, 55 cases of typhoid fever with 9 deaths, 89
cases of erysipelas, and 193 deaths from tuberculosis. Although there was no smallpox
that year, there were 211 cases with 30 deaths the following year and yet a greater
number in 1902. There were 32 common lodging houses in the Borough, and now only
2, and 27 underground bakehouses of which none remained in 1963.
One interesting heading is "Smoke Abatement" with the information that" the
smoke shafts of the Borough were frequently kept under observation and 13 intimation
notices served." It would seem therefore that smoke abatement is not such a modern
idea after all.
I am sure that Dr. Piper would wish me to express his thanks to the Members of the
Council and particularly to the Chairman and Members of the Public Health Committee
for their help and encouragement, to the other Chief Officers and their staffs for their
co-operation and assistance and to the staff of the Public Health Department for their
loyal and diligent service. I am indeed grateful that this assistance and encouragement
has been extended to me also.
I am,
Your obedient Servant,
R. D. DEWAR,
Medical Officer of Health.