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in the catering trade and urging that all staff seeking employment in
the United Kingdom should be x-rayed.
(3) The Association compiled a register of all Chinese employed by
Members with particular regard to their medical circumstances and this
will be available for inspection by officers of the Public Health Department
when required.
(4) The help of the Colonial Office was sought to improve arrangements
in Hong Kong for the x-ray examination of prospective employees in
the catering trade in the United Kingdom. Some difficulties had previously
existed in regard to this matter, as no certificates relating to
x-ray or medical examination were being issued.
The control and medical examination of immigrants came particularly
to the fore during the winter of 1961-1962 in connection with the passage
of the Immigrants Bill through Parliament.
So far as Westimnster is concerned, it is to be hoped that the action
which was taken and which is set out above will ensure that in future
most, if not all, recruits from Hong Kong to the catering industry will be
medically examined and x-rayed before coming to this country.
Welfare of Old Persons
Westminster Old People's Welfare Association
This voluntary Association, whose members include representatives
of various bodies interested in the welfare of old people, continued its
activities in the City during the year. These activities include the
organisation in various parts of the City of 14 Darby and Joan Clubs,
where light refreshments and recreation are provided; arranging holidays
at seaside resorts, summer outings, Christmas parties, and other
entertainments. Special outings and parties were organised during the
year for handicapped old people, many of whom by reason of their
infirmities, had not been outside their homes for long periods. The
distribution of gift parcels at Christmas time was arranged; and also
friendly visiting by voluntary helpers.
The City Council, under powers conferred by the National Assistance
Act, 1948, makes an annual contribution to the funds of the Association,
to be used for work which comes within the scope of " Meals and
Recreation."
A chiropody service for old people has been in existence in Westminster
for several years. During 1960, the service was considerably extended
and is now grant-aided by the London County Council. Treatment is
available at four clinics in Westminster or in the homes of housebound
old people. The charge is 3s. per treatment but the County Council's
scheme usually enables pensioners to obtain treatment free of charge.