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15
Although recently a somewhat shorter form of analysis for deposit
gauge material has reduced the cost, it might well be possible to effect
further economies in this general field of analysis.
The vital nature of atmospheric pollution research is also in my
view not brought sufficiently forcibly to the attention of Local Authorities
and whilst they may at heart be receptive to suggestions that
something should be done, there is lacking that final spark which
would in fact ensure that their general sympathy with work of this
kind, was translated into positive action. If atmospheric pollution is
really the problem that it is frequently said to be and is, then it can
undoubtedly be brought much more directly to the notice of people
who can do something about it. In this latter regard once more a
passing reference must be made to the fact that domestic smoke is a
substantial contributor to the dirtiness of our air. Whilst this is due
in some measure to the impossibility of securing the most desirable
grades of fuel, it is also contributed to in part by the fact that the
housewives are by and large not yet sufficiently convinced of the fact
that atmospheric pollution is really a problem or if it is that it is one
which concerns them. If industry and if the homes in this country
are not really convinced of the seriousness of the problem then national
and local authorities must undoubtedly shoulder a substantial part
of the responsibility. If on the other hand we do know of proved and
reasonably economic methods of preventing even in small part the
menace presented by polluted air. then it is up to everyone responsible
to see that practical means are devised of making remedial measures
known and practised.
Sewerage.
With the very rapid advance of housing development allied to the
difficulties of the war and post-war era, the adequacy of the main
sewage system of the district as reflected especially by the Ingrebourne
and St. Mary's Lane sewers, has naturally been under repeated review.
The situation is I think known to be unsatisfactory and it may
be presumed that measures to deal with it will be adopted with all
possible speed.
Whilst sewage overflow say in times of storm cannot be said so
far to be related to any actual prejudice to health, it is nevertheless
obvious that such overflows in the urban parts of an area (where there
are shops especially) represent potential danger of an order not to be
despised and where houses are involved represent a situation that no
individual likes to have facing him.
Surface Water Sewer.
Attempts have been made to secure the provision of adequate
drainage for surface water in South Hornchurch and it is to be regretted
that so far these have been without avail. Again it must
be admitted that if one is asked frankly to detail the actual damage
to health which is caused by the filled ditches and other surface accumulations
in this area, it is in fact impossible to establish any serious
case. It is, however, perfectly clear that in these times one does not
expect to find such accumulations of water and although I think some
grounds can clearly be advanced for attempting to minimise the