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12
From the statistical angle, the Report shows a record low
infant mortality and maternal mortality rate, a death rate of
11.7 and a birth rate of 20.9 per 1,000 population. A record
number of babies (1,612) were born in Bromley, 81% of these
being born in institutions. Mainly owing to the housing
difficulty, more and more mothers are attending hospitals for
their confinements, thus requiring, until such time as each family
has a home, provision of additional and ever increasing
maternity hospital facilities.
During the year we lost two valued members of the Staff.
Mr. Lawley who, for nearly 25 years had been Chief Clerk in
the Health Department, and to whom I have been indebted for
many years of faithful and constructive work in the development
of the Department, died after a long illness during 1947.
Miss Winter, who had been a much loved practising midwife in
Bromley since the time Bromley became a Supervising Authority,
died as a result of a street accident whilst on duty.
I have been privileged indeed to have had the loyal service
of all members of the Department, and it is with regret that
professional staff, midwives and health visitors should now be
passing out of my direct supervision.
I am,
Your obedient servant,
K. E. TAPPER,
Medical Officer of Health.