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receptacles, and the defective state of the lead pipes, cocks, &c. The directors
of the New River Company state, that although the time of service is
necessarily shortened, on account of the water being delivered under high
pressure, a much greater quantity is served daily than heretofore, under low
pressure.
Although my principal question was not answered, it would appear, from
the statements of the Water Companies, that the landlords are the parties in
fault, in not adapting their pipes, &c., to meet an improved system of distributing
water, that the poor are not adequately supplied.
The use of stand-taps, butts, and cisterns, ought to be abandoned. The
stand-taps not only occasion a great waste of water, but, owing to the want of
good paving in some of the courts, the water flowing from them, causes the
houses to be damp. Butts and cisterns are objectionable, because the water in
them is exposed to the air, and soon becomes contaminated. The constant, or
high pressure method, is that which should be adopted.
I am sorry to learn that the Water Companies are about to distribute
water by measure; but surely this plan will not be persevered in, for it cannot
be considered in any other light, than as a retrograde movement.
In the report which I have just now had the honor of reading, I fear you
may consider that I have dwelt too long on some of the points which I have
brought before you, and that I have wearied your patience with subjects not
strictly in accordance with my duties, as prescribed by Act of Parliament; yet,
although all the subjects in this report may not fall within your jurisdiction to
consider, I trust that the importance of them will be looked upon as a sufficient
apology for my having introduced them.
I am fully sensible of the deep responsibility which belongs to me, in
advising your Board on matters relating to the health of the district, and I shall
esteem it one of the greatest privileges to be permitted to co-operate with you,
in endeavouring to improve the health, happiness, aad well-being of our poorer
fellow crcatures.
I have the honor to be,
Gentlemen,
Your most obedient Servant,
JOHN LIDDLE.
Office of the Board,
15, Great Alie Street,
Goodman's Fields.
13th Qctober, 1856.
t. penny, printer, 121, leman street, whitechapel.