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28
of Food to discuss a regional control scheme for the whole of the
London area. (Similar regional schemes were set up throughout
the country). This marked the real turning point in the methods
employed to combat the rat menace. It was really the datum line
for the change over from well-meant but rather haphazard individualistic
action to efficient and strictly co-ordinated methods. Much
could be written of this subject but our efforts in the past, often
the subject of ridicule however well done, with the little or no
assistance available, could not keep up with the breeding propensities
of the rats. What is the position today ? We have now a
Rodent Officer working under my general supervision with two
operatives giving full-time service throughout the year. They use
up-to-date methods and poisons, they are fully trained for their
job and are enthusiastic inasmuch that they know their work is
of importance. The utmost co-operation exists between the
responsible government department and local authorities and
between local authorities themselves. No longer is it a
case of one local authority striving to keep its district free
whilst an adjoining district does little or nothing. Occupiers
of private dwelling houses, whilst not being relieved of their
responsibility, are given a service without payment and freely
take advantage of this offer. The days when one householder
himself tries to rid his premises of rats whilst his
neighbours do nothing has passed. Whenever a request for
assistance is received an investigation is made at all the adjoining
properties. The owners of business premises are required
to pay for the services rendered, but a large proportion, in this
district, are willing to pay annual charges to cover regular inspection
by our staff and for treatment if and when required. Sewers
in the district are test-baited annually to make sure they are not
infested with rats. It has been proved that sewer infestation is
often associated with trouble on the surface. Council depots,
sewage disposal works, piggeries and open spaces all receive their
share of attention.
The work of rat destruction is now carried out on a well
organised basis and is providing a service to ratepayers which I
have every reason to believe is very much appreciated by the great
majority.
MISCELLANEOUS.
During the year it became necessary to arrange for the
funerals of three persons where no suitable arrangements for the
disposal of the bodies had been made. This is a duty placed upon
Local Authorities by Section 50 of the National Assistance Act,
1948. Only a small proportion of the expenses involved could be
recovered.