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The operation of the Maternity and Child Welfare Scheme reached
a new high level and record attendances were made.
Sanitary inspection and control of food and drugs under the
experienced guidance of the Chief Sanitary Inspector was conducted
with usual efficiency, whilst the continuing shortage of labour and
material for securing remedial housing work was, in a large measure,
successfully countered by the judicious use of statutory powers. The
legal provisions for the prevention of overcrowding, in the face of the
acute shortage of accommodation are, for the time being, valueless.
Only more houses can remedy this evil which affects the mental health
of the people no less than their physical wellbeing.
I would like once again to place on record my appreciation of the
work of my staff, who, with their customary loyalty, have given of
their best and without whose untiring efforts much of the progress
recorded in these pages could not have been achieved.
I am,
Your obedient servant,
F. LAWRENCE SMITH,
Medical Officer of Health.
August, 1948.
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