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46
the view of improving the conditions of houses in which the
working class dwell, and producing more healthy towns. The
part which particularly affects the Sanitary Department is
chiefly composed of amendments to the Housing of the Workin
Classes Act, 1890, to which there are a large number of
cross references. Previous to the passing of this Act, part
three of the Housing of the Working Classes Act, 1890, was
only adoptive, but now becomes law without adoption. This
gives the Authority power to build houses for the Working
classes where such houses are needed. This becomes an actual
duty, and a complaint made by any four persons that the
Authority has failed to carry out that duty will result in an
enquiry by the Local Government Board, and if the Board are
satisfied as to the default of the Authority, they may order the
carrying out of any works which may be necessary. The old
machinery in relation to the closing and demolition of unhealthy
dwellings is revised. It now becomes imperative for
the Local Authority to cause inspection of their district to be
made from time to time with a view to ascertain what dwelling
houses are unfit for habitation. If any such houses are discovered,
it is then their duty to make a closing order, and if
the owner does not appeal to the Local Government Board
within 14 days, the order comes into force, and remains so
until the house is placed in proper repair. If this is not done
within a certain time the Local Authorty may proceed, after
notice to the owner, to demolish the building. The Act particularly
deals with Cellar Dwellings and Back to Back Houses,
These clauses do not affect this district to a great extent, as
there are only a few houses built with basements, and only a
ver- few of these are occupied as dwellings. It will, however,
be necessary to inspect those that are occupied, to ensure that
they comply with the terms of the Act. With regard to the
Back to Back houses I am pleased to say that we are entirely
free from dwellings of this description. The powers contained
in certain sections of this Act are more extensive than those
of the Public Health Acts. All sorts of conditions which
Sanitary Officers are continually meeting with but which our