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should be removed. In effect, the dwelling would be reduced
to a structure of the bungalow principle. Adequately roofed
such accommodation would be suitable for aged persons for
living and sleeping, and the necessary water supply, cooking,
heating and other fitments would be situated on the ground
floor. These dwellings being vested in the local authority would
be under the direct supervision of the health department which
I have every reason to believe would enhance the existence for
those persons who would occupy such dwellings.
That the older type of house could be reconditioned as
described above I have no doubt whatever. Indeed such reconditioned
bungalows suitably rough-casted, or cement rendered
could present a pleasant appearance.
Clearing Houses for Council House Applicants.
Departure from and lapse in standard of cleanliness within
houses owned by the local authority, would indicate that a
certain amount of health education is necessary for a number
of prospective applicants of Council houses. My contribution
to the solution of this problem would be to recommend that
say six houses should be constructed wherein applicants known
to be of the careless type could reside during a probationary
period, and during which period the householder could be
visited by an appropriate officer of the department, and supervised
in maters regarding cleanliness and public health generally.
That such a system would work out satisfactorily I have no
doubt, inasmuch that I believe that dubious applicants could
be transformed into really suitable occupants of council houses.
Provisions with respect to Blindness.
Under Section 176, Public Health Act 1936, a Local
Authority may make such arrangements as they think desirable
for assisting in the prevention of blindness, and in particular
for the treatment of persons ordinarily resident in their area
who are suffering from any disease of, or injury to, the eyes.
The Blind Persons Act 1928 defines a blind person as "so blind
as to be unable to perform any work for which eyesight is
essential." When the acuity of vision is below 3/60 Snellen
the person may usually be regarded as blind. (Ministry of
Health Circular 1353.) The principal Act of 1920 provides
blind persons with Old Age pensions when 50 years of age,
since which time, the Blind Persons Act of 1938, has reduced
the age at which Old Age pensions may be received from 50
to 40 years. Under the Public Health Act 1936, the Local
Authority may arrange for welfare schemes and provide employment,
hostels, or homes.