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As in former years, as soon as the analyst's report was obtained, vendors whose
samples were found to be up to standard were informed that it would be unnecessary
for them to retain the portion of milk left with them. When the samples were
found to be slightly below the standard, a special report was made to the Public
Health Committee, and in only one instance was it found necessary to send a letter
of caution to the vendor.
Proceedings.—In the case of samples definitely adulterated proceedings were
instituted.
In 1919 action was taken in 12 cases. In no case was the warranty defence
pleaded. In respect of the 12 cases fines and costs to the amount of £74 2s. 6d. were
recovered. In 1918, when there were 9 cases, the amount was £74 3s. 6d. A
considerable number of samples were taken on Saturday nights and Sunday
mornings, and in all 74 were obtained on delivery at Marylebone Station of the
Great Central Railway. Of the 74, nine proved to be adulterated, and warranted
the institution of proceedings.

Bacteriological Examination of Milk.—With a view to testing the purity of
milk from the bacteriological point of view, five samples were taken and submitted
to Dr. Foulerton, the Council's Bacteriologist, for examination.
In respect of two, the report was to the eflect that the milk was "good." The
remaining three being retuined as being not quite free from foreign dirt. In no
instance was any sign of tuberculosis found.
Dairies, Cowsheds and Milkshops Order.—Frequent inspections of cowsheds
and milk premises were made with the object of discovering whether or not the
requirements of the regulations as to cleanliness, etc., under these orders, were being
complied with. In no case were proceedings necessary, verbal warnings generally
proving sufficient.
Milk and Cream Regulations.—The following is a copy of the return required
by the Ministry of Health with regard to proceedings under the Public Health (Milk
and Cream) Regulations. These regulations absolutely forbid the addition of
preservatives to milk, and so far as can be gathered from the reports of the Public
Analyst, the prohibition is loyally obeyed. The smallness of the number of samples
of cream taken is due to the fact that during the greater part of the year the
inspector had difficulty in obtaining cream, the sale of which was limited under an
order of the Food Controller.