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In the meantime unfortunately the prospect of another reorganisation has had an unsettling effect on
the staff of the department many of whom have experienced previous unheavals in 1948, 1965 and 1971.
This had led to a number of resignations particularly among junior staff and difficulty in filling resulting
vacancies because applicants are unwilling to enter a service where their future is uncertain. This in turn
has meant that senior members of the staff have often to undertake duties normally performed by their
juniors, with detriment to their own work. It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain the services of
the department at the high standard the public has come to regard as normal; and with the imminent
prospect of senior officers being appointed to posts under the Area Health Authority which they will be
expected to fill immediately the situation is likely to deteriorate between now and April 1974. Nevertheless
I know that the remaining staff of the department will as always give of their best.
In concluding this Introduction to the final Annual Report of its kind may I express to you, my Lord
Mayor, and to all Members of the Council, my sincere appreciation of the support and encouragement I
have received over the past fourteen years since I was appointed as Medical Officer of Health to the "old"
City of Westminster. My thanks are also due to the other Chief Officers and their staffs at all levels for
their continued assistance. Finally, to the staff of my own department I record my warmest thanks for
their loyal and conscientious help readily given at all times.
October 1973
J.H. BRISCOE-SMITH
Medical Officer of Health