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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 7th-14th November, special measures were undertaken
and the co-operation of many large firms in the Borough, and of the Borough Engineer
was obtained. The number of baits laid in the sewers of Woolwich and Plumstead
was 7,325. The total number of inspections made was 512. In 64 instances it
was necessary to secure the repair of defective drains. Seventeen premises were
made rat proof and other effective measures were taken in 14 instances. No
statutory notices were served.
Fouling of Footways by Dogs.—In 1934 the Council made a by-law which
came 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."
One summons was issued during the year, particulars of which will be found in
Table No. 30 at the end of the Section.
Nuisances 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. Action
taken during the year was limited to the destruction of a considerable number of
eggs.