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76
The Common Lodging House.—These premises still afford shelter
for a number of inmates who would drift into poor lodgings if not accommodated
here. Although the premises are very old, they are kept clean, and subjected to
regular inspection. But the time is not far distant when these houses, together
with some adjoining, should be demolished, as they are practically beyond
repair and unsuitable for dwelling houses.
The Rats and Mice Destruction Order is, no doubt, doing very
much good. During the year much has been done in exterminating rats, especially
on the Council's sewage farm. I have seen hundreds of rats dead after one
gassing operation, and no doubt there were a large number killed in their holes.
We have examined a number of premises where rats have been reported,
and in many cases have found defects in the covers of the Inspection Chambers,
especially where they have been kept below ground level, thus allowing the rats
to find their way on the premises.
We have also in many cases laid down a number of rat baits with good
effect. To keep these pests down it requires systematic operations, as they
increase and multiply very quickly.
Pig-keeping in the district is again increasing, and owing to the
relaxation of the Bye Laws during the past few years, will require much
attention during the coming year.
Canal Boats.—There were 17 registered boats inspected during the
year, and only one contravention found, i.e., 1 dirty cabin. Very little is seen
of the " narrow boat," or those who carry women and children. The usual
boats seen are those that are registered at Ware, and are, generally speaking,
well kept.
The Canal Boats work could be more efficiently performed by an officer
having control of the whole of the water way, as the Canal is situated on the
outskirts of the district, and practically away from any dwelling houses and
much time is wasted waiting for boats.
The particulars of the work in connection with Factory and Workshops,
Housing and Town Planning Act, etc., I have handed to your Medical Officer
of Health, who will include it in his Report.
During the year Mr. Nixon, one of the Inspectors, obtained an appointment
in the Borough of St. Pancras. Mr. W. Tillcock was appointed to fill the
position, and is very tactful in carrying out his duties.