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lessened by being spread over a large surface. The 65,000 bullocks, sheep, and pigs,
the maximum number killed annually, are not brought to one spot, or through the
same streets, but are shared between 78 butchers dispersed in different parts of the
parish. No butcher kills a large number in any one week. Thus by subdivision and
distribution the nuisance is reduced to a point at which it is hoped no serious
inconvenience or danger to the Public will be felt.
Should, however, just cause of complaint arise, it wrill be remembered, that
the licenses remain in force only from year to year, and that in any particular
case where a nuisance is substantiated, cause may be shown against the renewal of
the licence.
I take the opportunity of stating in this place that there is no Knackers'
Yard or place for slaughtering horses in the parish, or that if such exists or should
be established it will be illegal, since no Notice has been given to the Yestry of
intention to apply for a license for such purpose.
Thirdly—We have to consider the rights of Trade. No useful occupation
should be interfered with except to the extent that may be necessary in order
to guard the greater rights of the Public, and to protect individuals from injury.
It is hoped that the Vestry will, on these grounds, approve the principles
which have actuated their officers in the discharge of this responsible duty. It would
have been easy to lay down a code of conditions with which very few butchers could
have complied, and the adherence to which would have had the effect of closing
almost every Slaughter-house in the Parish. The endeavour has been to interpret
the Acts in a just and liberal spirit.
I have the Honour to be,
Gentlemen,
Your faithful Servant,
ROBERT BARNES, M.D.
13, Devonshire Square, l'Ath October, 1856.
ANDREW T. ROBERTS, PRINTER, OPPOSITE SHOREDITCH CHURCH.