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16
There is a need for constant vigilance on the part of
the inspector and of course of the management and everyone
connected with the food trade. Often through carelessness or
apathy undesirable methods creep in and food is exposed to
unnecessary risk of contamination. Too often food handlers
take the easy, slip-shod path; they are not alone in this, of
course, but they have a special responsibility to the public
and managements at all levels should be more alert to
ensure the maintenance of the highest possible standards.
Action by the inspector, other than admonition or advice, is
often not possible because our legislation regarding food
handling still largely relates malpractices to risk to health—
something possibly suspected but impossible to prove.
Shops
The department administered the whole of the provisions
of the Shops Act, 1950, and all shops in the area were
visited, the frequency of inspection depending upon the
class of business carried on.
Two licences, both renewals, were issued to keep pet
shops.
The occupiers of two shops were licensed to deal in
game.
The "late day" for the general closing hours of shops in
the area was Friday, but usually shops were closed well
before the permitted hours. Shopkeepers remained free to
fix their own half-day closing, subject to the provisions of
the Shops Act. Most shops close for the half-day on
Wednesdays.
A number of shops opened on Sundays and periodical
inspections were made in connection with the limited range
of articles permitted to be sold on those days with a view
to ensuring so far as possible that the requirements of the
Act were being observed.
Food premises in the district consist of the following:—
Catering establishments, including factory canteen
and school kitchens 137
Grocery and provisions shops and "general
stores" 70
Greengrocers' Shops 39
Butchers' Shops 26
Bakers' Shops 18
Milk Shops 13
Fishmongers' Shops 11
Sweet Confectionery Shops 51