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Imported Food. The total amount of foodstuffs seized and condemned as unfit for human
consumption and either reconditioned or disposed of for animal feeding or for industrial purposes
under guarantee or destroyed outright either by burying or burning was 3,010 tons 18 cwts. 1 qr.
10 lbs. as compared with 4,133 tons 18 cwts. 3 qrs. 3 lbs. in 1958.
Transport of Refuse by Lighters. The relaxation of the Bye laws in 1958 eased the burden
of responsibility of the Contractors. Nevertheless, infringements continued and during 1959
eight offences were reported officially. Legal proceedings were taken in respect of seven
offences and a penalty imposed in every instance by the Magistrate.
Clean Air Act, 1956. 1959 was the first complete year that the Dark Smoke (Permitted
Periods) (Vessels) Regulations were in operation and the overall result achieved was most satisfactory.
Owners and agents of vessels have invariably been most co-operative in doing everything
possible to prevent smoke emission. In spite of warnings, reprimands, patience and persuasion
there have been defaulters and it was necessary to serve 25 Notices during the year for
Black Smoke offences, 8 of the cases being dealt with by the Magistrates and fines imposed.
Radiation Hazards. While it is premature to assume that any nuclear powered ship will come
to the Port of London in 1960, the problems that might arise have already been discussed and the
Port Health Inspectors have attended a specialised course on the hazards of radio-activity.
Canal Boats. 113 inspections of canal boats were made, 44 defects being found on 25 boats.
Launches. The Port Health Authority's Boarding Station at Gravesend, the Hulk "Hygeia",
was taken out of water for complete overhaul and it should render useful service for many years
to come. The ambulance launch "Howard Deighton", which has been in service since 1934, is
not now really fast enough for boarding work and plans are in preparation for replacing her by a
larger and faster cutter of improved design.
Finally, I wish to record my appreciation of the collaboration and assistance rendered by
Her Majesty's Customs, the Port of London Authority, the Shipping Federation, the Pilots, members
of the staffs of Shipping Companies and Merchants, the staffs of the Central Public Health
and St. Bartholomew's Hospital Laboratories and of the 'Dreadnought' Seamen's Hospital, the
South-East Metropolitan Regional Hospital Board, the Dartford Hospital Management Committee,
the staff of the Port Health Authority, and indeed all those who have so generously helped me in
every aspect of the work throughout the year.
I have the honour to be, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
J. GREENWOOD WILSON.
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