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The Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919.—This Act makes it obligatory
for all occupiers of land to keep the land and premises thereon clear of rats and
mice. Cases of rat infestation vary widely and often the correct treatment of a
particular case can only be decided after an examination of the premises concerned.
Each district inspector is the rats officer for his area and investigates all complaints
received, giving the necessary advice to suit the particular case. During the National
Rat Week, held from lst-6th November, special measures were undertaken and
the co-operation of many large firms in the Borough and the Borough Engineer was
obtained. The number of baits laid in the sewers of Woolwich and Plumstead was
6,872. The total number of inspections made was 380. In four instances it was
necessary to secure the repair of defective drains. Seven premises were made rat
proof and other effective measures were taken in four instances. The number of
statutory notices served was two.
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.
The By-law is as follows:—
"No person being in charge of a dog in any street or public place and
having the dog on a lead shall allow or permit such dog to deposit its excrement
upon the public footway."
Six summonses were issued during the year, particulars of which will be found
in Table No. 23 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