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43
Additional questions appeared on many of the search forms, mainly
in regard to any proposals for dealing with properties by means of clearance
or redevelopment under the Housing Acts, restrictions on the use of
underground rooms, and the suitability of premises for specific purposes
such as catering establishments and workrooms.
Assessment of Housing Priorities on Medical Grounds
During the year, 122 applications for rehousing on medical grounds
were examined, and recommendations were made for the guidance of
the Housing Committee.
In each case the precise medical condition and resultant disability
were determined (frequently necessitating communication with the family
doctor or with the hospital attended). Investigations concerning the
present housing circumstances of the applicants were made by the Public
Health Inspectors. Their detailed reports included a reference to the
extent and nature of existing premises, and its adequacy for the number
of persons accommodated; the sanitary and structural conditions; the
risk of infection, and the existence of inconveniences, such as stairs,
which might be prejudicial to the patient.
On this information an assessment was made of the degree of priority
merited on medical grounds.
Common Lodging Houses
There are two common lodging houses for men in the City, licensed by
the City Council under the Public Health (London) Act, 1936.
These common lodging houses have accommodation for 716 and 565
men lodgers respectively.
Six visits were made by the Public Health Inspectors to the lodging
houses during the year.
Slum Clearance
Programme for 1961-65
On the 23rd June, 1960, the City Council approved proposals (which
were also subsequently approved by the London County Council) for
action to be taken by the City Council under Part II (Demolition of
individual unfit houses) or Part III (Clearance area procedure) of the
Housing Act, 1957, to secure the demolition during the five-year period
1961 65, of 87 houses and flats in Westminster which are considered to
be unfit for human habitation. These proposals were submitted jointly
by the County Council and the City Council to the Minister of Housing
and Local Government for approval.