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On the technical aspect, the trend to abolish hand-fired coal burning furnaces in favour of
the oil-fired installation and diesel engine has continued, thereby helping considerably to rid the
Port of visible atmospheric pollution. In confirmation of this trend, figures in respect of regular
collier fleets and harbour craft are quoted. The increased industrial demands for fuel oil, including
the large power stations, has reduced the coal traffic from the North-east seaports, consequently
the collier fleets have been reviewed by the Owners. It has been gratifying to witness the wisdom
and co-operation in the course of this re-organisation which was carried out with the provisions
of the Act in view.
River traffic is usually the most sensitive to smoke control because of fluctuating power
demands. In his successive Reports for the Upper and Middle River districts, Senior Inspector
Marshall has submitted a picture of continuous and steady progress with a background of tactful
pressure and full technical co-operation with all concerned.
The overall improvements in the Port have given a measure of satisfaction to the Inspectors,
who are now seeing the results of their earlier efforts and the time devoted to securing goodwill
in the observance of the requirements of this legislation. Experience indicates that vigilance
and prompt intervention must be continued in order to cope with the changing personnel of
international shipping and the occasional defection of the human factor.

Of Total — 186 Vessels 69.4% Steamships
30.6% Motor ships
Of Steamships — 129 Vessels 79.1% Coal hand fired
20.9% Oil fired
*Includes 5 natural draught.
Number of colliers proceeding above Tower Bridge — 47 27 Steamships
20 Motorships
34