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authorities concerned, but, as is so often the case, the articles were found to be part of an old importation
and it was not possible to recommend legal proceedings in these 3 cases. Two drawing sets
were found in each case to have a red pencil containing an excessive quantity of lead in the paint
finish. This was also the case with a paintbrush imported from Japan. Two further paint brushes
examined in the department's laboratory also indicated the presence of lead in excess of 10,000
parts per million.
The presence of lead in the pencils and paintbrushes was viewed with particular concern and a
general warning to the public was issued via the Council's Press Officer which was taken up in the
national press, radio and television. Details were also sent to independent schools and play
group organisers within the Borough and advice was given regarding the types of pencils and paintbrushes
considered to be most suitable for use by children. As with all unsatisfactory toys the
information was sent to professional bodies concerned with enforcement of the regulations namely
the Association of Public Health Inspectors, the Association of Weights and Measures Inspectors
and the Association of Shops Act Administration. The Toys (Safety) Regulations 1967 define a toy
as meaning a child's plaything and whether or not pencils and paintbrushes come within this
definition has not yet been established. Both articles were imported and again would appear to be
old stock. Because of the tendency to chew pencils and paintbrushes, it is particularly important that
the level of lead and other dangerous metals be kept to an absolute minimum.
The control of rats and mice in accordance with the requirements of the Prevention of Damage
by Pests Act 1949 together with the control of insects and other pests generally is carried out by a
team of four operators, a foreman and a technical assistant. In addition to pest control work the
operators also carry out drain clearance, assist in testing and transport of laboratory specimens,
etc.
Treatments in domestic premises for the eradication of rats and mice are carried out free of
charge. Business premises are generally advised to avail themselves of the services of one of the
specialists contractors but under certain circumstances, for example when control is necessary as
part of the control of a block involving domestic property, treatment may be carried out and a charge
made. Free disinfestations are carried out at domestic premises for insects of public health significance
i.e. fleas, bed bugs and cockroaches. Infestations of animal fleas are not normally dealt with as a
free service but advice on all insects and pests is freely given. Wasps are also eradicated free of
charge. Although there was a slight reduction in the number of premises found to be infested with
rats during the year, the number of premises infested with mice rose sharply, 674 compared with
490 in 1971.
The department co-operated with the London Pest Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries
and Food in a survey to determine the extent of rat and mouse infestations in the Greater London area.

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