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17
Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919.
The Act states :—
" Any person who shall fail to take such steps as may
from time to time be reasonably practicable for the destruction
of rats and mice on any land of which he is the
occupier or for preventing such land from being infested
with rats or mice shall be liable on summary conviction to
a fine not exceeding five pounds or where he has been served
with a notice under this Act requiring him to take such
steps not exceeding twenty pounds."
It is important to notice that the Act places the responsibility
of freeing land—this includes premises—upon the occupier and only
on the owner where the land is not occupied.
Throughout the year constant attention is given to places
where there is, or is likely to be, infestation. Rat complaints are
promptly investigated, and every endeavour is made to trace the
source of infestation. The procedure is as follows
The premises are inspected to find the rat runs and likely
nesting places.
Where there are drains, these are tested and when found
to be defective are repaired or relaid. This is more difficult
during the war period.
When necessary, buildings are rendered rat proof.
Particular attention is given to accumulation of refuse
and other material.
Food premises are inspected at frequent intervals.
Advice is given to the occupier as to the best methods to
be adopted, and rat biscuits, traps and varnish are supplied
free of charge. Where advisable pre-baiting is carried out.
Where the source of infestation cannot at first be found, the
premises are kept under further observation.
With regard to the rat menace it should be borne in mind
that there is no easy or ready solution to the problem. The
important factor, when making the enquiries, is time, patience and
perseverance. War conditions of many kinds have ' brought
increased difficulties.
It may be said that the larger part of rat infestation within
the Borough, as in most Boroughs, can be located to the public
sewers. Possibly when the war is over a concentrated attack
might be made to deal with rats in the sewers by " gassing
methods."