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from routine returns as to what proportion of the mothers in
crowded areas are using the Centres, and also to investigattmany
matters concerning which at present no idea can be formed
—such as, for instance, the mortality occurring among infants
of the same sanitary environment, brought to the Centres, and
others not reached by the work of the Centres. The present
system does not permit of sufficient information being obtained
on many vital matters affecting the health of the Borough, and
this is particularly true as regards tuberculosis and maternity and
child welfare.
The present clerical staff are absolutely unable to cope with
any additional duties. The Health Department is understaffed
and the two evils necessarily resulting are that essential information
cannot be obtained, and that the technical staff have clerical
duties to carry out.
An additional Fifth Class Clerk and the promotion of Mr.
H. C. Bowman to Second Class with responsibility for the
clerical work arising out of the new measures, would cause at
present rates of salary an additional expenditure of £198, of
which £99 would fall upon the rates.
Treatment Centre.
It is estimated that this building as planned would cost
£2,350, including £202 for installation of lighting and heating.
Equipment for Ante-natal Clinic, Treatment Clinic (for minor
ailments, including skin conditions) and Dental Clinic, would
amount to an additional £250.
Half the money expended on equipment as well as the
annual loan charge on the building, amounting, on £2,350 on a
30 years' loan at 4f per cent, interest, to £148 should be met by
the Ministry of Health.