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The question of the population to be used for the calculation of birth rates
has also required consideration. The births registered are not only those of the
children of civilians, and the estimates of civil population, therefore, form an
unsuitable basis for the calculation of birth-rates. It is impossible to frame any
estimate that would give reliable birth-rates, and it is suggested, therefore, that the
birth-rates for 1915 be. based on the existing estimates of total population for 1914.
These will sometimes be seriously in error owing to extensive migration having
occurred. Although in such cases the Registrar-General does not possess the local
information necessary for applying any correction, it is not suggested that this
fact need preclude medical officers of health from making use of their opportunities
in this direction.
Difficulties, which will probably prove insoluble, remain as to estimation of
population in sex and age groups and the standardising factors dependent upon
them. Moreover, the present method of estimation will obviously not apply to
1916 or subsequent years, unless the National Register is effectively kept up-to-date
or further enumeration made. Nothing can at present be decided as to these
matters."
One must not forget, however, that trade was brisk and unemployment
was conspicuous by its absence in 1915 in the Borough of Stepney. On account
of these facts, very few houses were unoccupied during the year, and to this extent
there was a tendency to an increase in the population. Although a large number
of men worked in munition factories, they did not migrate for that purpose. They
came home every night.
Births.
The total number of births registered during the year was 7,506, or 477 less
than in the previous year. They consisted of 3,868 males and 3,638 females.
1,667 belonged to the Limehouse District, or at the rate of 32.8 per 1,000
of the population.
1,314 belonged to St. George-in-the-East, or at the rate of 29.7 per 1,000
of the population.
3,052 belonged to Mile End Old Town, or at the rate of 28.2 per 1,000
of the population.
1,443 belonged to the Whitechapel District, or at the rate of 23.3 per 1,000
of the population.
The birth-rate throughout the whole Borough was 28.2 per 1,000 of the population,
while that for the whole of London was 22.6 per 1,000.
526 births occurred in the Mothers' Lying-in Home, Commercial
Road:—
101 belonged to Mile End Old Town.
135 belonged to the Limehouse District.
75 belonged to St. George-in-the-East.
27 belonged to the Whitechapel District.
188 belonged to outlying districts.
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