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We have already dealt with a large part of our slum clearance
programme, and are still continuing this work. The problem of
houses in multiple occupation is at present under review throughout
the country,as this presents quite a serious problem in many
parts. It is already clear, however,that this is not too serious
a problem in Wood Green. As the matter is still under careful
investigation, however, this would appear to be a matter which
would better be reported at a later date. The specific problem
of the provision of suitable accommodation for the elderly is
dealt with in the section of the Report which deals with the care
of the aged.
The position with regard to the setting up of smoke control
areas in Wood Green is proceeding according to the plan submitted
to the Public Health Committee and to the Council and duly agreed.
This, of course, is a long term policy, but I think it can be said
that Wood Green has not in any way neglected its obvious duties.
Food hygiene has once again received considerable attention
during the year. The Chief Public Health Inspector and his staff
of Public Health Inspectors have carried out many visits to food
premises and have investigated all complaints arriving at the
Public Health Department. Talks on clean food were given to local
organisations throughout the year, stressing particularly the part
which members of the public can play in what is undoubtedly a
sizeable problem. Although the Borough Council possesses the
powers of law enforcement in regard to infringements of the Food
Hygiene Regulations and although the Council has taken action in
this field when action was required, this only represents a comparatively
minor solution to the problem. In the United States
of America, they have adopted an excellent slogan "Protect yourself,
yourself". This means, of course, that unless and until we
all work together to effect much-needed improvement in food hygiene,
we cannot expect success. No one would suggest that we should
become a nation of priers or snoopers. None the less, it will
readily be realised that Public Health Inspectors, with their
multifarious duties and small numbers can, with the best will in
the world,only devote a limited time to food hygiene. The general
public can and should insist on the highest standards at all times
and in all places, and should cease to trade with those establishments
where conditions are in any way below standard, and should
let us know of any conditions which they consider represent a
danger to the consumer. If this co-operation was one hundred per
cent, there can be little doubt that conditions would improve.
This is merely a matter of simple common sense, yet we know that
conditions are still tolerated by the general public which should
never be allowed to exist and which may never come to our notice.
The relations between the Public Health Department and the burgesses
of Wood Green have always been good. Our aim is to try and
impress upon the public that we are here to help, but that we
need their help. The fact that conditions in Wood Green are good,
should never be allowed to stand in the way of further progress.
We all know that Wood Green is the premier shopping centre in
North London; we would also like to think that Wood Green is
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