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Host of those complaints resulted in repeated visits being paid to the
houses affected. Inspections were made of sewers and of the house
drains discharging to the sewers, as rat infestation in Westminster,
particularly as regards dwelling houses, generally arises through faulty
or decayed sewer connections. As a result of these examinations GO
drainage connections to the sewers were relaid and any other drainage
defects found were made good.
The staff of the Works Department have, in addition to laying baits
in the sewers throughout the year, treated four sections of sewers with
anti-rat gas and also the drainage systems of houses and other premises.
During " Rat Week " in November efforts in connection with rat
destruction were intensified ; circulars on rat destruction were distributed
and 14,060 baits were laid in the sewers and at the council's refuse
depots and other places likely to attract rats.
Nuisance from Pigeons.—Section 52 (1) of the London County Council
(General Powers) Act, 1927. The administration of this section is a duty
of the City Council and details of the arrangements made were given in
the Report of 1928.
A member of the disinfecting staff whose duties are mostly concerned
with rat disinfestation also devotes some time to reducing the number
of pigeons on complaint. During the year he visited some 46
premises and caught 269 pigeons. Messrs. Daltons also operated in
Trafalgar Square and Parliament Square and reduced the number of
pigeons by 500.
Noise from the Use of Rock Drills in Street Works.
The Council on the 20th July, 1933, referred the question of noise
caused by the use of rock drills in street works to the Works and Public
Health, &c., Committees for consideration and report.
The Medical Officer of Health reported upon the subject to the Committees
concerned and as the matter is of public interest his report is
fully set out:—
The Use of Rock Drills in Street Works and the Effect of their Noise
on the Health of the People.
1. This matter is part of a reference from the Council at its meeting on 20th July
last. The whole reference was made to the Works Committee which was instructed
to consult with the Public Health Committee as to the aspect outlined at the head
of this report. It is now understood that the Works Committee wish to be favoured
with the views of the Public Health Committee.