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Respraying, particularly after redecoration of the rooms is still
found to be effective in preventing a recurrence.
Cockroaches: 5% and 10% D.D.T. Powder has a marked
effect in eradicating these pests from properties. The product
"Gammaxane" a lethal powder is giving excellent results.
In addition to the above, 34 complaints were received of
infestation by ants or other household pests. Inspections were
made and the occupiers were advised and assisted.
Towards the end of the year it is usual for quite a number of
complaints to be received of nuisance by wasps.
Such complaints are sent to the Surrey County Pests Officer at
Guildford, who gives prompt attention to them by destroying the
wasps and removing the nests.
When there is any difficulty in identifying insects, information
and advice can be obtained from the Natural History Section of the
British Museum.
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF ANIMALS ACTS.
Several outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease occurred in
England and Wales during the year but Richmond was not involved
in Infected Area Restrictions.
Under the provisions of the Tuberculosis Order, 1928, two
cows in the herd of one of the Cowkeepers in the Borough were
slaughtered and found to be affected with tuberculosis.
Notification of these cases was received from the Ministry of
Agriculture and Fisheries and the cleansing and disinfection of the
infected parts of the cowsheds and the destruction of infected straw
bedding was supervised.
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE BY PESTS ACT, 1949.
INSPECTION AND TREATMENT OF PREMISES INFECTED
BY RATS AND MICE.
Prior to this Act coming into force, the system in operation
vvas the inspection of premises by the Sanitary Inspectors; the treatment
for eradication being undertaken by the Rodent Branch of the
Surrey County Council who were under contract with the Richmond
Borough Council for the disinfestation of dwelling houses.