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3
Where possible, records were obtained of the names of those interred
and dates of interment, which records are in the possession of the London
County Council.
In all 372 exhumations were made.
The Housing question though still acute, shows definite signs of
improvement, but years must elapse before overcrowding is finally
a thing of the past. Overcrowding in this district, which has so few
facilities for building, can only be overcome by deportation. The central
position and amenities for travelling away from it to work are so great
that residents naturally do not want to leave the Borough, and if they
do, not infrequently return.
A further development of the Council's activities was the purchase
of Sutherland House for the purpose of extending the Maternity and
Child Welfare scheme, and at which premises the scope of the Maternity
and Child Welfare work can be expanded. The Centres of St. Mary's
and St. Paul's districts were transferred to these premises during
the year.
In Southwark, with its wharves and warehouses, Borough Market,
and colony of street traders, Food is naturally a question which calls
for much attention and supervision, and a large amount of work is done
in regard to this, which is set out in the body of the Report.
In addition to the supervision of imported foods there is also the
question of the export of manufactured food products to foreign countries.
Each country has its own regulations, but these products have to be
examined by the Inspector and certified by myself before they can be
admitted to a foreign country, and as I am appointed Certifying Officer
for the U.S.A., Canada, Philippine Islands, Turkey, and other countries,
the food products sent to these countries must be accompanied by a
certificate signed by myself, and during the year £88 15s. 6d. has been
received by the Council for such certificates.
An unusually high tide with an easterly wind caused severe flooding
at the north end of the Borough, chiefly affecting the basement
dwellings of the riverside houses. Fortunately no epidemic broke out,
though considerable damage and inconvenience was inflicted on the
inhabitants. The mere fact of flooding with water would not in itself
cause sickness (other than that caused by dampness), but should drainage