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which arose due to frozen water services could, in many cases, have been avoided. Much
of the inconvenience was caused because the service pipes were inadequately protected
and water closets were situated outside. Tenants should be aware of the position of
the stop-cock and ensure that it is in working order. Taps should not be allowed to
drip and a little salt placed in water closet and gully traps would have prevented the
water content from freezing
In increasing measure, it is found that the homes of aged or infirm persons require
cleansing. In certain circumstances, the conditions are such that it has been found
necessary to obtain volunteers from the Disinfecting Staff to undertake this work
The City of London (Various Powers) Act, 1963, came into force during the year by
virtue of which the Metropolitan Cattle Market and Abattoir was closed at the end of the
year under review. Hie site is to be re-developed for housing, open space and educational
purposes. Although slaughtering will stop at the end of this year, ancillary trades will
continue for a while. The transfer of this site from the City Corporation to the London
County Council will take effect from the 1st January, 1964,
Another Statute which will affect the work of the Department is the Offices, Shops
and Railway Premises Act, 1963, and which is based on the report of the Gowers Committee
of 1949. The Act not only applies to rooms in which people work but covers other parts
of the premises occupied together with an office or shop for the purpose of the
activities carried on therein. Thus stairs, passages, landings, storerooms, entrances,
exits and yards may be included The Act also applies to canteens which cater wholly or
mainly for the people employed in the respective premises Anyone intending to employ
people in offices, shops or railway premises will be required to notify the appropriate
Authority and all existing premises will have to be registered.
In addition to the above legislation, the Animal Boarding Establishments Act, 1963,
was passed and becomes operative on the 1st January next year;
The language iroblem presents difficulties with some immigrant groups in explaining
hygiene requirements. It is not easy to "get across" to many what is required by the
laws of this country and why, Interpreters, whilst normally helpful can sometimes get
the words mixed up. During an inspection of an exceptionally clean hairdressing
establishment, the Inspector, speaking through an interpreter sought to convey to the
proprietor the need for sterilising his equipment. The proprietor turned on the Inspector
because he thought that he was complaining about the dirty conditions of his business,
Housing conditions and accommodation of immigrants often present difficulties.
Overcrowding, lack of security of tenure and high rents are amongst the problems that
create and encourage social problems, Many live in fear of eviction.
In June, owing to torrential rain, a number of basements were flooded causing
inconvenience and hardship to a number of families. Where possible, arrangements were
made for floor coverings and carpets to be removed, dried and returned to the owners. In
addition, disinfectant fluid was distributed where necessary. This service was much
appreciated by the residents concerned.
On three occasions during the year, two Inspectors carried out joint inspections
during the night. The Inspectors performing this duty visit premises the subject of
noise complaints, refreshment houses, clubs, food factories (on night shifts), coffee
stalls and inspect vehicles used for the transport of meat. The presence of Inspectors
during the night has a salutary effect upon food handlers, The Inspectors endeavour .to