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a large tea blending and packing factory in Greenford and came direct from the London
docks without inspection on landing. This places on the Council the responsibility of
ensuring that these teas are fit for human consumption in accordance with the
provisions of the Food and Drugs Act, 1955, and the Public Health (Imported Food)
Regulations, 1937.
During the year, a total of 382 samples which were representative of all consignments
received at the factory were taken. Experience over the last few years has
shown that greater attention must be paid to teas from certain areas, and sampling is
therefore selective.
Of these 382 samples, 8 were found to be of doubtful quality after initial tests
had been carried out locally and were referred to the Council's analyst for more
detailed examination and report.
The samples taken during the year were from a total stock of 36,570 cases
received at the factory direct from the docks.
Registration of Hawkers of Food and their Food Premises
In accordance with the requirements of Section 11 of the Middlesex County
Council Act, 1950, 16 hawkers were registered during the year leaving a total of such
traders on the register at the end of the year at 64, including the 16 new traders.
Premises Registered for Preparation of Sausages and Preserved Foods
Seven premises were registered in accordance with Section 16 of the Food and
Drugs Act, 1955, during the year, at the end of which there were 188 premises on the
Council's register.
Sampling of Food and Drugs-Chemical Analysis
Food and drugs samples are examined by the Council's Public Analyst, Mr. W.B.
Chapman, B.Sc., F.R.I.C., and his Deputy, Mr. E.H.W.J. Burden, B.Sc., F.R.I.C. They
are both officers of the Scientific Branch of the Greater London Council, and an annual
block payment is made by the borough to cover these services. The analytical work is
carried out in laboratories which are staffed and equipped to undertake a wide variety
of investigations. Apart from food and drugs these include water pollution and sewage
treatment, sampling of water from swimming pools, air pollution, ventilation, noise
and vibration, fire precautions, petroleum, fertilisers and feeding stuffs, radiochemistry
and general supplies and services.
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