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other things to select those traders who are prepared to go to some lengths to meet the standards
demanded whilst others not so disposed have chosen to discontinue trading in the open.
To date standards incorporated in the new market square are far better than has ever been
attained at either of the previous sites at Chequers Yard or Vine Street. Much work still remains to
be done in this respect and strict surveillance of practices will continue.
Concurrent with the above a programme of wild pigeon control has been undertaken. Experiments
were carried out resulting in a trap being developed by this department which proved successful
in the humane capture of large numbers of birds. The system necessary involves daily attendance
at the trap for baiting and clearing the traps which avoids any suggestion of cruelty. During the past
three years the following numbers were caught:
1970—300; 1971—981; 1972—695.
At the present time a reduction of the numbers of birds in the Uxbridge Station and Market
House area is evident, even though extensive demolition of derelict buildings has tended to produce
a general movement to these roosting places. Arrangements have been made with the secretary of
the Uxbridge and District Pigeon Association to take away birds which carry registration rings and
the Association has been most helpful. Although the pigeon nuisance has been considerably
reduced, trapping is continuing and no doubt will have to continue for some time if eradication
is to be achieved.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
During 1972 the working party under the chairmanship of Lord Robens published its report.
The recommendations in the report if introduced as legislation would resolve some of the anomalies
that now exist whereby persons employed in some specific occupations do not have any statutory
safeguards as regards their working conditions. When inspections are made of places of employment
under the relevant specific legislation, attention is also given to the following matters and if
necessary action taken.
(a) Nuisances—(e.g. dampness).
(b) Drainage—(e.g. storm and fire water drainage with particular reference to cross connections
and to any pollution from chemicals).
(c) Refuse storage and disposal.
(d) Rodent infestation.
(e) Food Hygiene—including canteens and vending machines.