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Atmospheric pollution is a matter which is receiving some attention largely
as a result of the disastrous "smogs" which we have experienced but the cost of
improvements will be high. In an area such as Poplar where the problem is severe
the local cost is likely to be so high that it will be impossible to keep pace
with more fortunate areas and there is no indication that the outside financial
assistance will be sufficient to correct the balance. In the meantime if the
housewife wishes to provide reasonable ventilation for her house she must suffer
the smuts and dirt which pervade the air of Poplar.
The health of the public is improving slowly and no doubt progress will
continue to be slow because public health is not spectacular. The fact that
somebody has not been ill will never make headlines but the cost of the medical
services of the country and the cost of the time lost from work through illness
is so enormous that it is well that the steps taken to improve the health of the
public should be kept under review and that the possible benefit or detriment to
the public health should be given due weight when any schemes are considered.
Included in the report is information which has again been kindly supplied
by Dr. G. 0. Mitchell, Divisional Medical Officer, London County Council,
concerning the personal health services and I would like to express my thanks to
Dr. Mitchell and his staff for their help and co-operation at all times.
My thanks are due to theMembers of the Council and particularly the Chairman
and Members of the Public Health Committee for their help and encouragement
throughout the year.
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