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resolution if the high standing of Southgate among the Boroughs
of this country is to continue. And who would dare to say that this
will not continue ?
The work carried out under the Food & Drugs Act 1955 will
be reviewed in detail in the appropriate section of the Report. This
is yet another instance of the increased responsibilities which have
been placed on the shoulders of the Public Health Inspectors over
the past year. These responsibilities have been willingly, indeed
cheerfully accepted, although it is unfortunate that the additional
Public Health Inspector, appointed by the Council in 1955, resigned
after a short stay in Southgate, leaving us one short of our complement.
Needless to say, all possible steps are being taken to make
good the vacancy.
Mention might be made of yet another addition to what could
very rightly be described as environmental hygiene. This concerns
the passing of the Clean Air Act 1956. It will be appreciated that
work in this field belongs to 1957 rather than to 1956, but the
matter of clean air and all its implications were fully considered
during the year under review, so that we would be ready to take
positive action when the proper time arrived. Although Southgate
could scarcely be regarded as a "black" area, I know that the
Public Health Committee and the Council as a whole will wish
to play their part in what must very rightly be a national effort.
As always, Health Education has played a prominent part in
our public health programme. The usual approach has been made,
i.e. articles in the press, talks and film shows, posters, the distribution
of leaflets, pamphlets, etc., through the Public Health Department,
the Area Health Office, libraries and clinics.
A handbook entitled "Home Health and Safety Handbook"
was also prepared for distribution throughout the Borough. After
careful consideration, it was decided that the time was not opportune
to stage any special campaigns, e.g. a Clean Food Exhibition,
although, as already mentioned, special articles appeared in the local
press by courtesy of the editors on subjects which had topical
interest. As hitherto, the magazine "Better Health" continued to
circulate, and received a good reception.
Too much emphasis cannot be placed on health education.
Health education costs merely a fraction as compared with other
health services yet the results, though perhaps intangible for a
time, are none the less far reaching. It will also be obvious that
Southgate is in many ways an ideal district in which to practise
health education.
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