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been slightly increased of late years, I understand that these prices
are considerably lower than in surrounding districts. From a
public health standpoint, I am completely satisfied that this is a
very wise move. Although we can never guarantee that residents
of neighbouring authorities do not take advantage of the facilities
provided in Southgate, we can be equally sure that our own population,
especially the children, are being provided with a healthgiving
amenity of the greatest value, which is still well within the
financial reach of all members of the community. In other words,
our Open-air Swimming Bath represents an insurance policy, the
premium for which is trifling in comparison with the lasting benefits
received.
Rivers and Streams
There is nothing to report beyond the statement set out under
this heading in the Annual Report for 1951.
Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949
During 1952, 442 complaints of rats and mice were received
as against 513 in 1951.
In March, 1952, a baiting and poisoning treatment was carried
out by the Borough Engineer's Department in the Council's soil
sewers. 358 manholes were baited. In 129 of these complete or
part takes of bait were noted. Following a request made in 1951
by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, poison takes were
recorded during this treatment. Of the 358 manholes treated. 12
showed complete takes of poison and 51 showed part takes of
poison.
In September, 1952, test baiting was carried out by the
Borough Engineer's Department to 266 manholes, representing
approximately 15 per cent. of the total manholes on the Council's
soil sewers. On the results obtained from this test, a baiting and
poisoning treatment followed, during which 352 manholes were
baited. At the request of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries,
an alternative bait base and poison was used for this treatment.
Poison takes in the manholes were again recorded. Of the 352
manholes baited, poison bait was taken completely in 11 manholes
and partly in 47. In the remaining 294 manholes, there was no
take of poison bait.
All work done in the sewers was carried out in accordance
with the recommendations of the Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries (Infestation Division). An official of the Ministry visited
the district on each occasion, and was given facilities for inspecting
the work while in progress. He expressed himself entirely satisfied
with the way in which the work was carried out.
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