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12
I have so frequently discussed the hygienic value of these block dwellings,
as compared with other residences of the labouriug classes, that at present I
have little to add. I think that no building should be erected so high that
water on the constant service system cannot reach to the top floor; 1 should
like the bye-laws of the Board, which are applicable to houses let in lodgings
and occupied by members of more than one family, to be amended so as to
apply to such of the model dwellings as may fall below a standard to be
agreed upon by the Board. If the population as given be correct, the death-rate
in the Model Dwellings for the year was only 16.1 per 1,000, and the Zymotic
death-rate equalled 1.4 per 1,000.
Apropos of this matter comes the question of overcrowding and of high
rents. I am aware that some exaggeration has taken place in considering the
former; as regards the latter, it is most probable that therein will be found
the kernel of the whole problem. While it is possible for property to fetch a
sum at public auction which will allow to the purchaser 5 per cent. on his
outlay, and when the cost of structural alterations and repairs are added to
the purchase-money, how can the future tenants obtain possession without
paying high rents. This explains the reason for people offering large premiums
for the keys, and engaging to pay increased rents; this explains why the new
tenants have to sub-let to the utmost capacity of the premises. This condition
has been continually increasing, and the end of the difficulty has not yet
been reached. 1 would suggest that no public money should be advanced to
builders of residences for the working classes where the rent per room was
not limited to 2/6 or 2/0 ner week.