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6
These extra duties focused my attention upon the question of the Sanitary
Inspectors and their manifold duties and, having also in mind the report from
the Minister of Health dated 4th November, 1932, in reference to the appointment
of Sampling Officers, I submitted to the Public Health Committee a report
upon a proposed reorganisation of the staff of Sanitary Inspectors.
In January Mr. Christie Brown, M.S., F.R.C.S., was appointed as Consultant
for puerperal pyrexia, puerperal fever and difficult obstetric cases.
In May I submitted a scheme whereby the Tuberculosis Dispensaries in
Shadwell and Whitechapel would be given up and a new dispensary built in a
suitable situation to serve at least the districts at present served by those two
dispensaries. The Council agreed to this scheme and after much search a site
was discovered and purchased in Ronald Street and Steels Lane. The preparation
of the plans for this new dispensary are now in the hands of the
Architect and I hope that building will start in 1934. This new dispensary
will lead to a reorganised and a very much more efficient Tuberculosis service in
Stepney.
In December the Council agreed to the payment to Brompton Hospital for
injections of Sanocrysin given to cases of Tuberculosis which had been recommended
for such treatment by the Tuberculosis Officers.
During the year arrangements were made with the London County Council
for the treatment of children under school age who are suffering from ear
defects.
No representation was made by me for Slum Clearance during the year, the
reason being lack of that rehousing accommodation which is necessary before
demolition can be considered. Plans are well advanced, however, and on the
decision of the Council as to the development of the Branch Road and Southern
British Ropes Sites I look forward confidently to a very busy time in Slum
Clearance in 1934 and in the years to come.
In October, Dr. O'Shiel was appointed as Deputy Medical Officer of
Health. He started work early in the new year and I am looking forward to
his able help and co-operation, especially in the Maternity and Child Welfare
Service of Stepney.
When Dr. O'Shiel took up his duties in Stepney, Dr. Auld relinquished his
post of acting Tuberculosis Officer, and I wish to place on record my sincere
appreciation of his loyal co-operation during his service in the Borough.
I was very pleased to extend a hearty welcome to Dr. Kin on his appointment
as Assistant Tuberculosis Officer.
I am very grateful to the members of the Public Health and the Maternity
and Child Welfare Committees and of the Council from whom I have always
received every kindness and the greatest possible help during the year, and I
wish to express my warm appreciation.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity of thanking all members of
the staff of the Public Health Department, firstly, for their very kind welcome to
me on my appointment, and secondly, and above all, for their ever loyal, ready
and keen co-operation in our work for the health of the Borough.
I am, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
A. Ferguson,
Medical Officer of Health.