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The Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919.—Each district Inspector is
the rats officer for his area, and investigates all complaints received. The total
number of inspections made was 203. In 30 instances it was necessary to secure
the repair of defective drains. Fifteen premises were made rat-proof, and other
effective measures were taken in 18 instances. The number of statutory notices
served under the Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919, was one. During the
National Rat Week, held from 2nd—7th November, special measures were undertaken
with the co-operation of the many large firms in the Borough, and the
Borough Engineer. The number of baits laid in sewers in Woolwich and Plumstead
was 8,820.
Fouling of Footways by Dogs.—In 1934 the Council made a By-law which
was sanctioned by the Home Office to come into operation from the 1st January,
1935. In November, 1936, a communication was received from the Home Office
suggesting that the Borough Council should cause notices to be exhibited in the
streets drawing attention to the provisions of this By-law, and it was decided that
notices as to the provisions of the By-law should be exhibited in various prominent
places throughout the Borough. Nine summonses were issued during the year,
particulars of which will be found in Table No. 22 at the end of the Section.
Nuisance from Pigeons.—Under Section 121 of the Public Health (London)
Act, 1936, a Borough Council is empowered to seize and destroy, sell or otherwise
dispose of house-doves or pigeons in excessive numbers, if they appear to have
no owner. It is necessary, however, in the first place, for the Council to obtain
the consent to the measures adopted by them from the persons or body in whom
the building or land, upon which the birds congregate, is vested. The powers of
the Council under this Section have been delegated to the Health Committee. No
action was taken during the year.
Rag and Bone By-Laws.—One of the By-laws made by the London County
Council prohibits the distribution or sale of any article of food or any balloon or
other toy from any premises used for the business, or from any cart, barrow or
other vehicle or receptacle used for the collection or disposal of rags and bones,
etc., or in any other way connected with the business.