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National Assistance Act, 1948.
Burial and Cremation of Dead.
Section 50 of this Act places responsibility on a local authority
for the burial of persons who have died, or been found dead in their
area where it appears that no suitable arrangements for disposal have
been made.
During 1954, six burials had thus to be arranged. In all but two
cases the Council was able to recover the costs involved, either from the
deceased person's estate, or from an interested relative or friend.
This duty involves a considerable amount of work as the Officers
have to act as enquiry agents in their endeavours to trace the history
of deceased persons and the possibility of surviving relatives.
In the absence of any legitimate claimant to valuables or money
found, the matter is referred to the Treasury Solicitor.
Rat and Mouse Infestation.
The free service given for the extermination of rats and mice in
domestic properties has continued throughout the year and it has again
been necessary to exercise continual care to control the nuisance which
remains widespread.
756 complaints were received during the year.
Included in the figures given are complaints relating to business
premises and altogether 64 such premises were serviced and in these
cases, accounts were submitted for £70 9s. Od.
During the course of their work, the Rodent Operators paid 5,485
visits to 1,155 premises and there is no doubt that the service given is
one which is particularly welcomed by the residential population.
During 1954, the sewers of the Town have been baited and poisoned
on two occasions, and J am able to report that the infestation below
ground is still kept at a minimum.
I wish to express my thanks to my colleagues who have worked with
me so loyally during the year under review.
G. A. WEBBER,
Chief Sanitary Inspector.
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