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29
was a considerable increase in the number of complaints of rat infestations. Driven
from their usual haunts the rats presumably sought shelter on the surface with the
result that 114 more dwellings were treated, an increase of 45 per cent, over the
previous year. A similar increase was recorded in the case of business premises.
Every effort was made by the staff to overcome this disturbing influx, a total
of 99 defective drains being traced and repaired in connection with various infestations.
That their efforts were successful is borne out by the very satisfactory figures
recorded for the final quarter of the year, they were, in fact, less than those of the
previous year. Great credit must be given to this section of the department for
the hard work and extreme patience shown in dealing with this problem.
There is little doubt that a considerable reservoir of infestation still remains
within or adjacent to the Borough. Any relaxation in our sewer maintenance
treatments or property surveys and treatment programme could lead to very serious
surface infestations.
27 fewer premises were found to be infested with mice compared with last
year. However there are still far too many infestations in private dwellings. The
exercise of a little more care by householders in protecting foodstuffs, a higher
standard of cleanliness, to ensure that food scraps are not left lying about, and
some effort on their own initiative when the first signs of mice are discovered,
would soon result in a considerable reduction of our work in this connection.
The amount received for baiting, etc. at business premises was £113 as against
£171 last year.

LICENCES AND REGISTRATIONS
London County Council (General Powers) Act, 1954
Hairdressers and Barbers
During the year 18 new applications were received and registered, making a
total of 127 hairdressers and barbers registered in the Borough.
All the premises were kept under observation during the year.