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72
HOUSING PROGRESS
The basic factors in the maintenance of health are good housing,
good food and a happy family life.
The house has been defined as a "machine for living in."
Like all machines, it has a finite life and requires frequent repairs
and renewals if it is not to become inefficient and out of date.
Changing standards of modern life demand facilities and conveniences
not thought of by our forefathers.
The Housing Advisory Committee report of 1946 laid down
these standards for a satisfactory house :
1. In all respects dry.
2. In a good State of repair.
3. Each room properly lighted and ventilated.
4. Have an adequate supply of wholesome water laid on for
all purposes inside the dwelling.
5. Provided with efficient and adequate means of supplying
hot water.
6. Have an internal or otherwise readily accessible water-closet.
7. Have a fixed bath, preferably in a separate room.
8. Be provided with a sink or sinks and with suitable
ments for the disposal of waste water.
9. Be provided with facilities for domestic washing, including
a copper, preferably in a separate room.
10. Have a proper drainage system.
11. Be provided with adequate points for artificial lighting in
each room.
12. Be provided with adequate facilities for heating each
able room.
13. Have satisfactory facilities for preparing and cooking food.
14. Have a well ventilated larder or food store.
15. Have a proper provision for the storage of fuel.
16. Have a satisfactory surfaced path to outbuildings and
convenient access from street to the back door.
Unhappily, the housing shortage remains severe in spite of all
efforts, as is evidenced by the long waiting lists. The amount of
friction and unhappiness produced by overcrowding is immeasurable,
whilst the direct relationship between overcrowding and spread of
infectious disease (such as Tuberculosis) has been amply proved.