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The shops of Fruiterers, Greengrocers, Butchers, Poulterers, and
Pork and Sausage vendors were placed under special supervision,
and the cleanliness and good appointment of Dairies, Bakehouses,
Slaughterhouses and Cowhouses were secured by frequent inspction.
The distribution of a circular warning the vendors of food
against the risk of prosecution in the event of the discovery of
unwholesome articles upon their premises, and the visits of the
additional Inspectors rendered any action at the Police Courts
unnecessary except in a few cases.
During this period the action of the Vestry's Officers was continued
in an attempt to induce the authorities to reorganise the
sanitary arrangements of the Board Schools. The drainage of
several of these schools was not in a satisfactory condition, and
the sanitary offices in many were provided with the old-fashioned
metal tanks which were with difficulty maintained in a cleanly
condition. Moreover, the regulations issued to Care-takers did not
provide for the sufficient and frequent flushing of these appliances.
Many representations had been made, including both requisitions
to the Board itself and personal applications at the offices of the
Works Committee. Notwithstanding the urgency of the subject
of these communications the School Board failed to commence
operations, and ultimately a summons was issued in respect of
South Lambeth Road Schools. The work under requisition was
carried out during the period of the adjournment of the Court,
and consequently upon the day of hearing the prosecution was
withdrawn, the School Board agreeing to pay the costs. At a later
date a further summons was issued having reference to the insani
tary condition of Johanna Street Schools. Several children in
attendance had contracted diphtheria, and although no evidence
presented itself, constituting proof that the insanitary condition
which undoubtedly existed stood in a causal relation to the disease.
Yet it was considered expedient that immediate action should be
taken. The case was heard at the Southwark Police Court after
an adjournment of one week, to allow of the necessary works
being completed, and the Magistrate decided against the School
Board, granting costs. Since this decision the sanitary arrangements
of every Board School in Lambeth have been thoroughly
overhauled and active progress has been made in introducing an
improved system of drainage.