View report page

8o
carrying bread hugged tightly against their clothes, the cleanliness
of which is open to question, and frequently allowing it to
drop in the streets. One cannot help thinking that this simple
measure of protection could be carried out without the very
serious trouble or expense which it is alleged it would involve.
HOUSE DRAINAGE.
This class of work continues to demand the constant and
vigilant attention of the department. That the work is increasing
is shown by the fact that 480 plans of new drainage were received
and dealt with during 1908, as compared with 313 in 1907, an
increase of 167.
The number of inspections carried out was 4,371, namely,
2,292 in the district North of the Marylebone Road, and 2,079
in the South district.
In only two instances has it been necessary to enter upon
legal proceedings against builders for contravention of the
London County Council By-laws. The particulars of these
cases are as below.
Offence.
Constructing a W.C. at No.
72, Wells Street, in contravention
of the London
County Council's By-laws.
Executing sanitary work at
No. 23A, George Street,
Portman Square, without
giving notice. Executing
such work in contravention
of the London County
Council's By-laws.
I think it would be advisable at an early date to distribute
in certain of the poorer localities a notice cautioning the inhabitants
against the wilful damage which is pretty frequently done
to water-closets and their fittings. Sections 15 and 41 (d) of the
Public Health (London) Act, 1891, cover cases of this description.
If such a measure resulted in a lessening of the numerous
complaints which come to the knowledge of the Department of
improper usage of water-closets, sinks, gullies, traps, pipes, etc.,
not only will nuisances dangerous to the public health be lessened,
but property owners will receive a measure of protection to which
they are justly entitled. The noticc could be distributed in
suitable localities by your District Inspectors as occasion offers.
Result.
Defendant fined £2.
Summons withdrawn on
Solicitor's advice, builder
having meantime apologised
and complied with the requirements
of the Department.