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24
ness over the reservoirs and mains of the Water Companies,
and at the request of the Society of Medical Officers of
Health, Dr. Buchanan promised that the subject should
receive the consideration of his Board.
SLAUGHTER HOUSES.
There are now 40 licensed slaughter houses in St.
Pancras. With few exceptions, these have been maintained
in a satisfactory condition during the year.
COWSHEDS.
There are 60 licensed cowsheds in St. Pancras. The regulations
of the Vestry have, on the whole, been complied
with.
BAKEHOUSES.
The Bill which, in 1883, was brought in for the improvement
of bakehouses has become law While this Act does
not include all the provisions which the Bill, as originally
drawn, contained, the transference of the duty of inspection
of bakehouses from a central to a local authority promises to
lead to their improvement.
Nevertheless, I cannot but express the opinion that until
bakehouses are registered and licensed in the same manner
as cowsheds and slaughter houses, there will be much
difficulty in ensuring these places being maintained in a
proper condition. It is a matter for regret that there
is no provision for preventing the future construction of
under.ground bakehouses. In the large majority of cases,
under.ground cellars and kitchens are used which cannot
either be properly ventilated or properly lighted. In many,
a stranger has much difficuly in finding his way into the
bakehouse until the gas is lighted; so dark are the places in
which the business of baking is conducted. Without light,
proper cleanliness cannot be maintained; without proper
ventilation the bread makers are obliged to work under conditions
which are not conducive to their own health, and
which for obvious reasons must interfere with the food which
is prepared.
It is almost needless to add that I am not satisfied with
the condition of many bakehouses in St. Pancras. The
Vestry have, however, supplied to every occupier of a bakehouse
a copy of regulations prepared by your Vestry Clerk
and Medical Officer, and indicating the requirements the
Sanitary Authority can insist upon. In the event of infringement
of these regulations the Vestry will, I trust, authorize
suoh proceedings being taken as the new Act permits.