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TO THE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE
PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I beg to present herewith a report on the work of the Public
Health Department during 1937.
The Registrar-General's estimate of population shows a
decrease of 1,700, but in spite of this the vital statistics were
satisfactory and on the whole below the corresponding rates for
England and Wales and other areas comparable with Walthamstow.
The incidence rates of diphtheria and scarlet fever were the
lowest recorded.
The routine work of the Department continues to increase as
a result of new legislation—e.g., Housing and Midwives Acts,
1936; new regulations and memoranda—e.g., Air Raid Precautions,
new rules of training for pupil midwives, etc.; and, at
times, there is a heavy burden on the staff.
The Engineer and Surveyor, Housing Manager, Cleansing
Superintendent and the Superintendent of the Ambulance Service
have again kindly contributed those sections of the report on
matters dealt with by their Departments.
The Chief Sanitary Inspector has given every assistance, and
has contributed those sections of the report dealing with the work
of the Sanitary Inspectorate.
The staff of the Department have worked well and have
assisted in the compilation of the report, particularly the Chief
Clerk.
I have to acknowledge the continued help received from your
Committee and from your Chairman.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
A. T. W. POWELL,
Medical Officer of Health.