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new refuse collection vehicles and ambulances, construction of a
laboratory to serve the Hospital and the district as a whole, and
the erection of still more conveniences—all matters of considerable
importance to Southgate.
The birth-rate continues to fall, while the death-rate remains
more or less stationary. With the district still undergoing a rapid
and extensive phase of development, the population is steadily
increasing and new problems continually make their appearance.
Mr. L. Skeeles, the Senior Sanitary Inspector, was absent from
duty for a period of 15 weeks, but has now happily recovered and
resumed his duties. I would like here to take the opportunity of
thanking all the members of the Public Health Department for their
whole-hearted co-operation throughout the year. The occurrence
of four cases of smallpox in one household—an unprecedented event
for Southgate— and the diphtheria outbreak in one of the most
crowded parts of the district, called for immediate and thorough
action. At this and at other times the staff re-acted promptly to
the stimulus. It is only on such occasions that one really appreciates
intelligent and loyal co-operation, and I am glad to be able
to record the existence of such attributes among the staff which I
have the honour to control.
As hitherto, Dr. Tate, the County Medical Officer of Health,
has kindly supplied the statistics relating to School Clinics and
Public Elementary Schools.
In conclusion, I would like to tender my grateful thanks to
the Chairmen and Members of the two Public Health Committees
which functioned during 1933, and also to the members of the Urban
District and Borough Councils for the help and consideration shown
to me during the year under review.
I am, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
W. C. HARVEY,
1934. Medical Officer of Health.
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