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72
if he does not properly isolate such cow, irrespective of whether the
disease has been certified. Further, dairymen are required under the
Manchester Act to notify to the medical officer of health any cow affected
with, or suspected of, or exhibiting signs of, tuberculosis of the udder.
In connection with the administration of the Dairies, Cowsheds and
Milkshops Order of 1899 in London, additional power is needed by the
Council, viz., that of seizing cows which the veterinary inspector is of
opinion are suffering from tubercular disease of the udder, and of
requiring such cows to be at once slaughtered. The Royal Commission
on Tuberculosis recommended that, if the veterinary surgeon's opinion
is found to be incorrect, the owner should receive the full value of the
animal; but that, if the veterinary surgeon's opinion is found to be
correct, then the owner should receive the value of the carcase only.
In this view we concur.
Under the terms of the standing order we have consulted the solicitor,
who thinks that, though the question is not free from doubt, upon the
whole the Council has power to spend money in promoting legislation in
the direction indicated. If the Council adopts our recommendation the
Parliamentary Committee will no doubt carefully consider whether any
or all of the powers desired can be obtained by a clause in one of the
Council's Bills or whether a Public Bill would be necessary to give effect
to any or all of our proposals. The matter is, in our opinion, one of
great moment as affecting the health of the consumers of milk in
London, and in which it is desirable to proceed without delay. It is
necessary under the standing order for proposals for legislation next
session to be brought before the Council at its first meeting in June.
We accordingly now submit our proposals, but we have not yet had
time to consult the borough councils with regard to them. We hope to
enlist the sympathy and support of these bodies, and accordingly suggest
that a copy of this report be sent to each, with an intimation that any
suggestions they may make will be considered. We recommend—
(a) That, the Parliamentary Committee be instructed to seek legislation
in the next session of Parliament to give effect to the proposals contained
in the foregoing report.
(b) That a copy of this report be sent to each of the metropolitan
borough councils, with an intimation that any suggestions they may make
thereon will receive consideration. [Adopted.
These two Reports having been submitted by the London County Council
to the Corporation for their consideration, and suggestions were referred to
your Medical Officer, who reported as follows:—
22nd August, 1901.
With reference to the circular letter of the London County Council,
enclosing copies of Reports of their Public Health Committee on the