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53
RAT EXTERMINATION.
Since the passing of the Rat Order, 1918, made by the Food
Controller, the Council have given special attention to the work
of eradicating these pests from the Borough. A professional ratcatcher
has been engaged, and contracts entered into, with excellent
results.
The infected areas have been the centre of attention, and 708
rats have been caught in cages, but undoubtedly large numbers
have been exterminated by the virus which is laid in their tracks.
It is essential that the work should continue, for owing to the
juxtaposition of the docks to the Borough, there will always be the
danger of invasion by these pests. The damage to property, food
and general depredation wrought, is sufficient to warrant the expense
incurred. It has been established beyond doubt that rats are
the disseminators of certain diseases that affect human beings.
Diseases (e.g., Bubonic Plague), are transmitted from rat to rat,
and from rat to man through the rat flea.
It is difficult to deal with rats when they invade a dwellinghouse,
but it can be claimed that the efforts made in several instances
have succeeded.
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF ANIMALS ACTS.
No case of Swine Fever has been reported in the Borough
during the year. The provisions of the Swine Fever (Movement)
Order, 1908, have been carefully carried out, 18 licences having
been received authorising the bringing of 163 pigs into the
Borough for killing purposes. 25 licences have been issued upon
the receipt of declarations, granting permission for 416 store pigs
to be brought in and fattened for food.
Two cases of Parasitic Mange have been notified and dealt
with according to the requirements of the Parasitic Mange Order,
1918, and the premises have been cleansed and disinfected, and
precautions taken to stop the spread of the disease.
CINEMAS AND MUSIC HALLS.
The premises licensed for music, dancing, and cinema performances
have been regularly inspected, and special attention
given to overcrowding, and especially seeing that staircases and