Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Camberwell]
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that an Act of Parliament, bearing the title of a
"Local Government Act," should, by an incorporated
clause, place the control, salary, and right of removal
of the Medical Officer of Health under a Government
Department, which is subversive of all the principles
of local self government, and one which deprives the
Vestries of the legitimate control of its own Officers.
Fortunately it will not yet take effect, as the Act only
applies to future appointments, unless the Vestry
should desire to place itself under the regulations
of the Local Government Board. Dr. Bristowe
(who was appointed thirty-four years ago to the
position now held by him) has zealously and ably
discharged his duties during the whole of this long
period, more especially during the visitation of
Cholera and other dangerous epidemics, when he was
able, by his eminent position in his profession, to
render most valuable assistance to the Parishioners.
Your Committee believe that the Vestry
wish to recognise the services of Dr. Bristowe, and
will not desire to displace him by the appointment of
a Medical Officer of Health under the terms of the
Order, who would probably be a man of inferior
rank in his profession with an increased salary. Your
Committee therefore unanimousl:—
Recommend:—That the Local Government.
Board be informed that this Vestry appreciate the