View report page

47
as possible. Four new filter beds are being constructed
at Lea Bridge, and the old ones are being re-constructed.
A pair of powerful engines will shortly be
in operation to give a better supply to the higher parts
of their district.
Hospital Accommodation for Non-Pauper
Cases.
This question will probably have to be again considered.
Such provision would often be of immense
advantage and enable the authorities to check epidemic
diseases much more speedily. But, I consider the
present Hospital accommodation is ample for the purpose
if properly utilised. I do not think many people
will voluntarily avail themselves of the Hospitals, and
it would be impracticable to enforce, unless in exceptional
cases, removal of patients without their own
consent, that of their relatives and the medical attendant.
In course of time a good deal of the prejudice
against removal from home would be overcome,
especially if their own medical advisers could continue
in attendance.
From a return kindly supplied to me by Mr. Thacker,
I find there were 114 cases sent to the Small-pox and
Fever Hospitals during the year ending Lady-Day, 1879.
In conclusion, gentlemen, it may be satisfactory to
you to know that all the measures enacted of late
years in relation to the Public Health and Sanitary
subjects had been previously forecast and recommended
in my reports to you long previously.
I have especially to thank the Sanitary Committee
for their confidence in and consideration towards me
in the discharge of my duties, most of which are performed
without necessarily coming under the direct
observation of your Board. I have also to thank the
Parish Medical and Relieving Officers for much
valuable information respecting the existence of infectious
diseases and sanitary defects.