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It is gratifying to record that the scheme for converting the whole
district into one complete Smokeless Zone under the Clean Air Act, proceeded
according to schedule despite some difficulty now being experienced
in the supply of smokeless solid fuel.
This report may well be the last I shall submit to the Council and it
is the thirtieth I have compiled on the health of the Urban District. Looking
back in retrospect I have the satisfaction of knowing that they provide a
record of steady and continuous progress in the state of public health.
Many agencies have contributed to this satisfying effort including the
general practitioners, the hospitals, the County health services and not
least the Council's own health service which I have had the privilege to
direct. The Council and its Public Health Committee have changed their
composition not a few times over the years, but I am grateful for the help
and encouragement they have invariably given me. Their duties and mine
will in April 1965 pass into other hands with the establishment of the
London Borough of Sutton. It is to be hoped that the new organisation
will provide opportunities for still further promoting the health and welfare
of the local community.
In conclusion a word of sincere thanks to my staff. Whatever success
the department has achieved has been the result of effective team-work
and I have been fortunate in having had the tireless and willing co-operation
of all those who have served under my direction.
I am, Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
F. LAWRENCE SMITH,
Medical Officer of Health.
July, 1964.
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