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who have read all the foregoing, will not be surprised to discover
that my summarising is to the effect that there is an enormous field
open for education in prevention, and that if this report makes any
contribution in that direction, the time devoted to its compilation
will certainly have not been wasted.
The stage has now been reached when reference must be made
to the vital statistics ; these show little change from the previous
year except for an unexpected and disturbing rise in the infant
mortality rate. I am unable to offer any reasoned explanation for
the increase but feel that it must be just one of those unlucky years
which, one hopes, will not recur.
Having disposed of the vital statistics it is my very pleasant
duty to refer to the arrival, early in the year of Dr. A. J. I. Kelynack
as the new deputy Medical Officer of Health. We are indeed
fortunate to obtain an officer of such ability and enthusiasm and I
am personally indebted to him for his great contribution to the
running of the department.
This report cannot be concluded without reference to the great
kindness and co-operation I have received in my first year as your
Medical Officer of Health, from a very wide range of individuals
and organisations. It is obviously impossible to thank everyone
separately, but a few general observations would not be out of
place. I acknowledge with grateful thanks, the help I have had
from my colleagues in the Hospital and General Practitioner
services— their willing assistance having lightened my burden
enormously. I must also thank my own staff for their very
material assistance throughout the year—the sanitary inspectors
under the guidance of that ever faithful stalwart. Mr. Woods, under
whose control Bromley Market has prospered to an extent quite
beyond expectations, and the clerical staff who have worked so well
under the able and efficient administration of Mr. Judd. Last but
by no means least, I should like to express my gratitude to the
Public Health Committee for their support and encouragement
which do so much to make my task lighter and more worthwhile.
I am,
Your obedient Servant.
H. B. C. CARTER-LOCKE.
Medical Officer of Health.
May, 1956.