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These three parcels were subject to purification by the ultra-violet method in a suitably
equipped tank barge at Barley Creek, and Sanitary Certificates were issued to accompany each
parcel, after samples had been examined and reported as satisfactory by the Fisheries Laboratory
at Burnham-on-Crouch.
In November, a further 5 ton parcel was exported to France, this time by a British company,
who hoped to develop a regular trade, but up to the end of the year no follow up consignments
were dealt with.
COCKLE INDUSTRY
This old established industry in the Thames Estuary centred on Leigh-on-Sea continued
throughout the year and produced no serious problems.
There were no known reports during the year of sickness attributable to the consumption of
cockles sterilised at the Leigh Sheds, and routine visits made to the different sheds at various
times confirmed that the Authority's requirements as to sterilisation were being complied with.
Very many of the "catches" landed at Leigh and dealt with to comply with the 1936 Order
are in fact gathered from outside the limits laid down in our "prescribed area". The Merchants
engaged in this industry work to such a pattern after landing their catch, they no doubt find it
more convenient to maintain a system satisfying our requirements, whether or not they are required
to do so, and this practice is to be commended.
The proposed construction of an airport and seaport in the Foulness Area will have a detrimental
effect on this industry as very many of the grounds used by the 'cocklers' at the present
time will disappear altogether.
SECTION XV
MEDICAL INSPECTION OF ALIENS AND COMMONWEALTH IMMIGRANTS
1. List of Medical Inspectors holding warrants of appointment at the 31st December, 1972:—
Dr. W.G.Swann, Dr. D.T.Jones, Dr. W. Stott, Dr. A.E.L.de Thierry, Dr. W.T. Rougier Chapman,
Dr. W.C. Lettington, Dr. R.F. Armstrong, Dr. R.G.S. Whitfield, Dr. R.M. Best, Dr. J.V.M.
Heslop, Dr. W.T.G. Boul, Dr. D.J. Avery, Dr. D. Keys, Dr. P.J.R. Walters.
2. List of other staff engaged on the work: —
Clerical staff at the central office.
3. Organisation of the work:-
Aliens and Commonwealth Immigrants are examined by one of the above panel of doctors, at
the request of an Immigration Officer. The majority of ships carrying immigrants are dealt with by
the Boarding Medical Officer, but a part-time Medical Inspector may be called in to deal with a
particular ship.

5. Medical examination of Aliens and Commonwealth Immigrants is carried out on board ship.
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