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consequent increase in the level of housing occupation. The development
of the St. Helier Estate during the 1930's increased the proportion of
smaller properties with relatively few rooms. The result of this was that
whilst the number of persons in private households per dwelling actually
fell between the census of 1931 and that of 1951 from 3.76 to 3.63,
the number of persons per room rose from 0.71 to 0.80 in the same
period; the highest of any district in Surrey.
It can fairly be said that in the last twenty years a steady advance
has been made on the broad front of public health. Some problems still
remain and some new ones have arisen, but many solid achievements
lie behind us and we can look forward with hope and confidence provided
we never lose sight of the fact that health is our greatest asset
which must not be sacrificed to any other consideration.
In conclusion, I would like to place on record my appreciation of
the encouragement the Council have always afforded me, not least in
their keen sense of responsibility as a Public Health Authority. I would,
too, express my thanks to all members of my staff who have given me
that willing and loyal assistance to which, for so long, I have been
accustomed.
I am, Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
F. LAWRENCE SMITH,
Medical Officer of Health.
August, 1954.
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