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found, when called in to disinfest premises, that he is hampered
in his efforts by reason of the overcrowded condition of the room.
This is typical in the case of many bombed out families who have
salvaged, and brought with them, more furniture than they have
accommodation for.
During the year, 307 premises came under the notice of the
Department, and 665 rooms were treated and re-treated when
occasion warranted.
In all, 315 gallons of vermicine were used.
Rat Repression.—Rat infestation in Greenwich can be
classified as mainly "minor infestations."
During the year, repairs have beeen carried out to houses in
badly bombed areas, and the consequent return of families to these
areas has led to an increase in the number of complaints received.
Harbourages have also been cleared, forcing the rats to seek other
refuge. The increase in the numbers of persons keeping chickens
and rabbits provide an additional reason for the increased number
of complaints received. Defective drains often prove another
source of infestation.
One full time rat catcher is employed and concentrates on
rat destruction, using the methods recommended by the Ministry
of Food, "Infestation Branch," prebaiting and poisoning.
A part-time rat catcher is engaged at 3/- per hour, using dogs
and ferrets where infestation occurs in chicken runs or beneath
sheds.
Baiting of Sewers.—Intensive baiting of sewers has taken
place since 1943, thus linking up with the arrangements made in the
neighbouring boroughs.
In addition, the Council has again participated in the campaign
sponsored by the Ministry of Food last year, and systematic
disinfestation was carried out during the Months of May and
December. From information supplied by the Borough Engineer,
it can be stated that approximately 1,550 manholes were baited,
either wdth:—
(a) Sausage rusk and zinc phosphide, or,
(b) Bread and barium carbonate.
It is pleasing to be able to record that the technical staff of the
Ministry of Food, expressed their entire satisfaction of the methods
adopted in Greenwich to rid the sewers of rats.
Scavenging and Refuse Disposal.—The collection of refuse