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6
In response to Circular No. 1550 "Children under School Age" of the
Ministry of Health of 27th October, 1936, the Borough Council established
two new Toddlers' Clinics in the Borough, an account of which will be found
in this report, and in accordance with Circular 1643a, a leaflet (pages 110-112)
was prepared for distribution from local post offices, giving full information
of the Local Health Services.
I have to report that the food section had a year of activity and much
has been done to improve the food and milk supply of the Borough. Interesting
details of the samples submitted to the Public Analyst are contained in his
report, particularly in relation to milk adulteration and cream cheese. His
full and explicit account of the relative properties of cream cheese and soft
cheese, and the constant substitution of the latter for the former makes
interesting reading.
The cleanliness of much ice cream sold in the Borough, as revealed by
bacteriological examination, is not satisfactory. It would appear that a case
could be made for the pasteurisation of all mix used in the manufacture of
ice cream and for the sterilisation of all utensils. It is hoped that by the
rigorous inspection of ice cream premises the manufacturers and vendors may
be induced to aspire to a higher standard.
Progress made in Housing during the year included the confirmation
without modification of seven Clearance Orders made by the Council. Three
large Clearance Orders were also made by the London County Council. 184
underground rooms were dealt with during the year. 12 were closed by
closing orders, 22 were made to comply by alteration and 150 were dealt
with in the Clearance Orders. 639 cases of Overcrowding were relieved
during the year. The "appointed day" under the Housing Act, 1936, has
not yet been reached in Stepney.
Once more I should like to express my thanks to the Chairmen and
Members of the Committees for the support and consideration received from
them, and to the staff of the department my high appreciation of the interest
they have taken in their work and their helpful co-operation.
I am,
Your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
F. R. O'SHIEL,
Medical Officer of Health.