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The question of dried soup and soup mixes is being kept under
observation.
Wheat Flakes
Following a complaint that a packet of breakfast cereal purchased
locally was infested with bread beetles a visit was made to the shop
and a further three packets obtained, all of which were similarly
affected. Inquiries showed that the packets had been in stock for
two years. Two summonses were issued under Sections 2(1) and 8(1)
respectively of the Food and Drugs Act, 1955, and at Barnet Magistrates'
Court on 18th September, 1957, the defendants were fined
a total of £20 with £5 5s. Od. costs.
OTHER INSPECTIONS
Pet Shops
Four persons are licensed to keep pet shops in the district. Visits
are made periodically to the premises and in each case the business
has been found to be carried on satisfactorily. There has been need
once again to stress the importance of a supply of water and sand
being readily available.
A dropped cigarette end or match always constitutes a danger in
premises where a considerable amount of straw and hay is used
for animal bedding.
INFESTATIONS
Rodent Control
During the year 368 complaints of rats and mice have been received.
All complaints have been visited and in addition premises
neighbouring the houses from which the original complaints were
received have been visited where necessary. In consequence 485
properties have been inspected for rat and mice infestations during
the year.
Of these properties 392 were found to be infested and were treated
for infestations. The number of complaints received show a very
considerable increase on the previous year.
The infestations have all been of a minor character and treatments
have in general been successful. Where difficulty has been experienced
re-treatment with variations of poisons and bait has produced
satisfactory results.
In accordance with the requirements of the Rodent Control
Branch of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food two
treatments of the sewers were made. The first was made in June
following the test baiting of 10 per cent, of the sewer manholes in
the district. A maintenance treatment was carried out in November
when 21 manholes were baited. Only seven "takes" were recorded
and for this treatment Warfarin with para nitrophenol as a mould
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