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11
Shop Hours Act, 1904.
The powers which this statute conferred upon the Council
have already been reported upon by the Clerk. It would appear
that any initiative step must emanate from traders who must
satisfy the Council that there is a prima facia case for a closing
order. There does not appear at present any movement in the
district in respect to the matter.
Alkali, &c. Works Regulation Act.
The question of the establishment of a business or works
authorised by this statute, or whether the owner of certain
premises was establishing a "noxious or offensive" trade caused
considerable trouble. After inspecting the premises in question
on several occasions and conferring with the County Medical
Officer of Health a doubt existed whether the business was an
offence under the above statute, or even under the first section of
the Public Health Act, 1875, which has reference to "noxious
or offensive trades." I reported to the Health Committee that
continued observations could only enable the Council to arrive
at any conclusive decision upon the question at issue. This
course was adopted.
Prevention of Cruelty to Children Act, 1904.
This Act came into operation in October last. The
expression in the statute of "local authority" includes an
urban district with a population according to the census of 1901
of over 20,000, and expenses incurred by a local authority in
administering the Act maybe defrayed out of the Council's fund.
The Guardians have however, powers dealing with the offences
prescribed by this and other statutes, so it may be inad visable
generally for the Council to apply provisions of the Act as
overlapping may ensue.
Diseases of Animals Acts.
Swine Fever.
The Secretary's letter from the Board of Agriculture and
Fisheries respecting this matter has received consideration and
attention.