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In addition there were four families occupying a one-roomed dwelling
each, and who were socially overcrowded, i.e., although not overcrowded
under the standards of measurement of rooms as prescribed by the Act
have insufficient accommodation for the proper segregation of the sexes.
Details concerning 17,641 families who were occupying the 7,021
houses were recorded, and represented a population of 39,075, including
3,508 children under 10 years of age. 4,167 families were living in furnished
rooms, the majority of whom were single persons. 163 working
class families were living in houses in which the basements only were
inspected, the other portions of the houses being occupied by families who
would not fall within the definition of working class. 1,350 houses are
let either wholly or in part as furnished lodgings.
Of the total number of working class families living in the houses
inspected, it was found that approximately 60 per cent. of the principal
wage earners were engaged in employment within the City.
The occupations of these wage earners were found to vary very
considerably, particularly in the Victoria Ward, whilst in Soho the occupations
are confined within narrower limits e.g., hotel and club workers,
market porters and persons engaged in the tailoring trades.
The approximate rent paid in working class dwellings in the northern
wards average 7s. 9d. per room, whereas in the Victoria, St. John and St.
Margaret Wards the average is 5s. 10d. per room.
Clearance, Demolition and Closure of Unfit Habitations.
Orders as to clearance, demolition or closure have been made in respect
of the following areas or houses:—
The Minister of Health, after Inquiry, confirmed Clearance Orders
made by the City Council in respect of houses in the under-mentioned
areas.
Wilton Road Area.—74 dwelling houses consisting of old cottage
property in an advanced state of decay, and occupied by 61 families.
Lancelot Place.—11 dwelling houses consisting of old cottage property
occupied by 11 families.
Laundry Yard.—Demolition Orders were made in respect of Nos. 3
and 4 Laundry Yard. The tenants will be rehoused by the City Council.
Goodwin's Court.—Statutory Undertakings that the premises should
not be used for habitation until they shall have been rendered fit for that
purpose to the satisfaction of the City Council were accepted in lieu of
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