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Again, after the present vacant land which is now planned for the erection
of houses for the working classes has been so utilised, I am not aware of much
more available property within this District. It seems to me that it is a
question for consideration by wealthy philanthropists upon the lines which I
have suggested.
Whatever thought may occur to those in power in dealing with this serious
subject, I would urge that before driving a poor family with too many children
from its single room, it would be well to consider if that is the best way to
stop over-crowding.
At present, according to most magistrates' ruling, the person who causes
a nuisance must be the first defendant. In the case of a nuisance from overcrowding
the defendant is the unfortunate possessor of too large a family. I
would suggest for consideration the advisability of placing more responsibility
upon the real owner of the property as a means of helping, in more than one
way, to overcome the evil.
But I must come to an end. I should like to record my thanks to my
Medical friends, who have always been so ready to assist me; I believe that
there has never been, between them and myself, any but the most cordial
feelings of goodwill.
I must not omit to do justice to the good and unselfish work of each
member of my staff. Each individual has, in his own person, been responsible
for his share of the improvement which I have described, and I can only hope
that in the future the tendency will be even towards increasing the number of
those officers who are primarily concerned in caring for the health of the people
who comprise the new Municipality of Stepney.
Gentlemen, in conclusion, I desire to state that having worked all my life
in Whitechapel, I am still, as ever, most interested in all that concerns its
welfare, and I rejoice that I have lived to see it occupying such an improved
position among Metropolitan Local Authorities.
I have the honour to be,
Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
JOSEPH LOANE.