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70
Graphs for this Council's five air polution sites show a similar trend
over these years, and although it is conceded that these sights only provide
spot checks, in view of their consistency it seems that smoke has been reduced
within the Borough by at least fifty per cent. The measurements of oxides of
sulphur have remained fairly constant over the years.
In the field of environmental health it is rare to be able to measure
quantitatively oenefits to the community and it is extremely rewarding to be
able to include these figures in this Annual Report, it seems probable that smoke
will be further reduced in this Borough when other London Borough Councils
complete their smoke control programmes in the 1970's.
The large number of deaths which occurred as a result of the 1952 London
smog were attributed to the presence of excessive smoke and sulphur dioxide
due to a temperature inversion over London. Recently, leading medical authorities
have stated that the case against oxides of sulphur in the air and their
harmful effects on man has been over-stated. In these circumstances, the
reduction of smoke within this Borough by fifty per cent or more must be seen
as a most extremely worthwhile achievement.

During the year 962 applications for grants in respect of adaptations to
fireplaces serving private dwellings were approved at a total cost of
£17,156.16s.8d. In thirty cases payment of a 100% of the approved cost
was made.
Notification of intention to install furnesses at 15 premises were received
during the year.
There were 210 smoke observations made in respect of a number of complaints.