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10
good preventive and after-care work of the duly authorised officers
in the mental health service, have contributed not a little to the
happiness and maintenance of health of a section of the community.
To some it would appear that even within the short period of
the duration of the Act, there is some measurable compensation
for the material losses incurred, but looking into the immediate
future one sees immense potentialities for good in the development
of the health services of the borough under the new legislation.
The Council's proposals were approved by the Minister
without material alteration and these now constitute the basis
for the implementation of the National Health Service Act, 1946,
applicable to the County Borough of East Ham as a local health
authority. The requirements necessitated a survey of all health
services over a wide field with an accurate apprisal of present
needs and future expansion. In the compilation of data and
consideration of appropriate recommendations, I desire to acknowledge
the invaluable help of Dr. J. S. Coleman, Deputy Medical
Officer of Health, and Mr. T. B. Clark, Chief Administrative
Clerk.
I am grateful to the Chairman and members of the Health
Committee and to those of the Sub-Committees for their continued
confidence and assistance. I wish also to thank the members of
my staff and other colleagues who have contributed so much to
the success of the health services.
I have the honour to be, Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
Malcolm Barker,
Medical Officer of Health.