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Out of the 1,093, as a matter of fact, only 31 were reported by the analyst as
being below standard or not of the nature, substance and quality demanded by the
purchaser. This gives a percentage of adulteration of 2'9 per cent., a figure which
compares most favourably with that for 1911 and 1910, when it was 6.2 and 7.3
respectively.
For this reduction there is no doubt that the increased activity in connection
with the administration of the Acts is largely responsible, and it is to the credit of
the Council. that the work they have caused to be done has led to a great
improvement in the food supply of the inhabitants of the Borough so far at least as
purity is concerned.
Sampling of food under the Acts is by no means an easy matter. It must be
carried out with the greatest care. There must be nothing slipshod about the
method, nor must it be stereotyped or too routine in character. As far as possible,
every dealer is visited at least once a year, but if it is considered necessary, more than
one visit is paid and more than one sample taken. Some of these are " informal,"
that is to say, they are taken merely for the purpose of testing as to the purity of the
article provided, and exact compliance with the rules of procedure laid down in the
Sale of Food and Drugs Acts is omitted.
In the majority of cases, however, the formalities of the Act are adhered to, and
the announcement made of the purpose for which the sample is taken. In these, the
Inspector is usually assisted by an agent, who actually makes the purchase. Such a
person is most useful, and in the majority of cases in 1912 was employed.
As in previous years, there was no routine time fixed for sampling. Many were
taken in the early hours of the morning, and on Saturday nights and Sunday
mornings. The bulk of the samples taken, as already mentioned, were of milk.
The number of cases in which persons were prosecuted was 18, and the fines
and costs recovered amounted to £36 10s. 0d.
The warranty defence was raised in six prosecutions for adulteration of milk, and
was successful in all cases, the summonses being dismissed.
Two prosecutions were instituted against defendants for offences against the
Acts other than selling adulterated articles.
Particulars of these are given below.
Sale of Food & Drugs Act, 1899, Section 9.
Fine. Costs.
Bolsover Street. Hawking milk in a public street without name
and address on vehicle or cans 3 0 2 0
Sale of Food & Drugs Act, 1899, Section 16.
Fine. Costs.
16, James Street. Wilfully obstructing an Inspector in the course
of his duties under the Sale of Food & Drugs
Acts. 10 0 2 0