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and to their neighbours. The County Council's "Meals on Wheels"
scheme has proved a great benefit in many cases, and I know that
the welfare of the old folk holds a permanent position in the social
and charitable work of the district.
Tuberculosis
I would again comment on the close link between the Tuberculosis
problem and the Housing problem. The waiting period before cases
accepted as suitable for Sanatorium treatment can be admitted
appears to be lessening, and perhaps it may not be many years
before the waiting period is eliminated altogether.
Rodent Control
It will be noticed that rat infestation has increased, and it is
needing increased work to cope with this problem.
Food Bye-laws
The new Bye-laws will be a great help in the campaign for clean
food and the co-operation of food traders has been good.
The mass of detailed work covered by the Chief Sanitary Inspector's
report is worthy of close attention. Finally, may I once
again record my opinion that in these days of pure water supply,
adequate drainage, clean milk, and control of the handling, wrapping
and sale of foodstuffs, the pillars of Public Health support a well
worth while edifice with one weak prop—lack of adequate housing.
This, of course, is a National problem, and in our department we
can only insist on remedying of defects in existing old houses. I
would hope that the time may come when the Council will earmark
a few houses out of each new estate for the rehousing of those at
present living in properties which should be condemned.
My most sincere thanks to all members of my staff for their usual
untiring patience and perseverance throughout the year.
Your obedient Servant,
C. M. SCOTT, m.r.c.s.(eng.), l.r.c.p.(lond.),
Medical Officer of Health to the Council.
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