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1 would point out that in all these cases it is most
essential that the inspections and reports are very carefully
made and prepared in order that clear evidence may be given
should the case be the subject of legal proceedings.
Water Supply.—The water supply was withdrawn from
39 houses during the year for the following reasons—4 by
request, 29 owing to arrears of rates, and 6 for other reasons.
Employment Agencies.—In October, 1925, the Public
Health Committee considered and agreed to the suggestion
of the Watch and Fire Brigade Committee, that I should
undertake the duties in connection with Female Domestic
Servants Registries, and I was, accordingly, appointed the
Officer. At the time of my taking over the duties there
were five Keepers registered under Section 85 of the Public
Health Act (Amendment) Act, 1907.
By the Surrey County Council Act, 1925, every person
who, after the 1st July, 1926, carried on within the Administrative
County an Employment Agency as defined, without
a Licence from the Surrey County Council, or otherwise than
in accordance with the terms and conditions of such a Licence,
or obtains a Licence by wilful misrepresentation, or by wilfully
omitting to give any required particulars, shall be liable
to a penalty not exceeding £50, and to a daily penalty not
exceeding £20.
The Act states "Employment Agency" means any agency
or registry in the County carried on or represented as being
or intended to be carried on (whether for the pupose of gain
or reward or not) for, or in connection with the employment
of persons in any capacity.
At the end of the year there were six Licensed Keepers
on the register, to whose premises periodical visits have been
made, and I have also accompanied the Surrey County
Council's Officer for the purpose of explaining the provisions
of the Bye-laws, book-keeping, etc.
With a few minor exceptions the Bye-laws have been
well observed.
Employment of Children Bye-laws.—Duties in connection
with these Bye-laws were transferred to the Public Health
Department on 1st April, 1926, Mr. Avis and I being
appointed. Any contravention observed is reported to the
Chief School Attendance Officer, and reports are rendered
to the School Attendance Sub-Committee, giving particulars
of observations, etc.
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