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6
gradual increase of co-operation and help that has been received
from the landlords and their agents. On no occasion during the
year have we had to go to Law to enforce the carrying out of works
under Section 17 of the Housing Act, 1930. Whilst this is largely
due to the fact that the Notices served have been in strict accordance
with the Act and included only such work as could rightly be
enforced, the willingness of the landlords and their agents to do
their best to render property fit to live in has materially helped to
get the work done in a smooth and pleasant manner.
Thousands of pounds must have been spent during the year in
securing improvement in the condition of houses in the District.
Of no small importance is the fact that three new refuse collection
vehicles of the dustless type were purchased. By the end of
1934 the Council had a fleet of six dustless collection vehicles,
leaving only one of the old semi-open type.
In addition to this, the Council purchased a combined Cesspool
and Gulley Emptier. This cesspool emptier replaces the old horsedrawn
van and hand-worked pump which used to take anything
up to an hour-and-a-half to empty one cesspool. The new vehicle
can achieve the same object in a matter of minutes.
Whilst this is an asset to the District, it does not represent the
perfect system, which consists in securing main drainage to every
house. The best cesspool does not replace main drainage.
I once more wish to express my gratitude to the Council for
its courtesy, and especially to the Chairmen of the Health and
Maternity and Child Welfare Committees, from whom I have
received the greatest help and co-operation.
My thanks are also due to my colleagues, and above all, to the
members of my Staff who have so loyally co-operated with me
throughout the year.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
D. H. GEFFEN,
Medical Officer of Health.