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classes, is much lower than in the wretched places where so many of
the poor now reside, yet in drawing a comparison between the rate of
mortality in these new buildings and that in many of the courts and confined
places, it must be borne in mind that into these improved dwellings
the better class, both morally and physically, of the operatives, can alone
obtain admission. It may be different when a lower class occupy these
buildings.
The subject of providing better homes in more healthy localities for
the accommodation of the working classes has been fully discussed by
writers and speakers on public health, and has been most prominently
put before the public during the last 40 years; and the subject has not
only been fully approved by large audiences and numerous readers, but has
been the theme of valuable leading articles in the public press.
This being so, the ratepayers cannot consistently and, I am sure, will
not grudge the expense of carrying out the provisions of Mr. Cross' Act,
the same being the first attempt on the part of the legislature to carry out
the wishes of the people upon this matter; and, so far from its being a
pecuniary loss to them, it will prove to be a great gain by the saving which
will result in their having to pay a less sum for sickness occurring in their
own families and a greatly diminished poor rate. It may be asserted, without
fear of contradiction, that all money laid out for the improvement of the
public health will secure an ample dividend.
It will be observed, on reference to the table on page 17, comprising
the Improvement Schemes which the Metropolitan Board propose to carry
out, that only twelve of the whole which have been proposed by the
Medical Officers of Health have been selected. If London, after the lapse
of four years from the passing of Mr. Cross' Act is to be dealt with in this
slow and fragmentary manner, it will indeed be very many years before this
great metropolis will become so renowned for health, as the intelligence,
wealth, and industry of its inhabitants entitle them to expect. The sum
required for the demolition of the numerous unhealthy localities in London
is large; but however large it may be, it is of comparatively little importance
when health and social improvement are the objects to be gained, and
in which all classes will participate.
As similar provisions to those contained in this beneficent Act have for
many years been urged upon the notice of the respective Governments, it
may be emphatically called the People's Act, and every ratepayer ought
earnestly to desire to see it carried out with all possible speed. I may be
excused if I here express my deep regret that two unhealthy areas which I