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the earliest opportunity. Let us take this into
consideration.
Cancer.—There were 10 deaths this year from
cancer. In 1905 and 1904 there were 18 in each;
in 1903, 17 ; and in 1902,12. We still are expectant
of discoveries as to the causes of this disease,
and much research work is being done in all civilised
countries to that end.
Dairies, Cow-sheds, and Milkshops.—These
have been periodically inspected by the Sanitary
Inspector, as detailed in his report, and a close
supervision is also being kept on the milk sold in
the district, that is to say, on that which is produced
within our own boundaries. As the law stands at
present we have no authority or control over that
which comes by rail, and this perpetuates what is a
real hardship in certain quarters, but is one which
we are assured " will receive careful consideration
in the event of any further legislation as to the sale
of milk being proposed." At present the milk
vendor is alone proceeded against for adulteration,
but this constitutes a grave anomaly, for the law
under the Sale of Food and Drugs Act makes the
distributor alone responsible, and does not include
the producer, while the purport of the Act is
obviously to protect the consumer.
Accidents and Inquests.—Through the courtesy
of Dr. H. M. Taylor, H.M. Coroner for this division
of Surrey, I have received a return of the inquests
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