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the requirements when they apply and invariably comply with
them. There are some 28 licensed premises for petroleum and 57
for storage of explosives, which comprise mixed fireworks.
RAT EXTERMINATION.
The passing of the Rats and Mice Act, 1919, imposes the
duty upon the local authority to see that the provisions are carried
out. As far back as 1917 the Council entered into a contract with
a professional firm of rat-catchers to carry out the work of rat
destruction in certain rat-infected areas in the Borough. During
the last twelve months' contract this firm destroyed 3,340 rats.
The contract was renewed for a further year. In addition, the
Council have men who are adept at rat catching, and they devote
coniderable time to the work. Rat traps and poisons are sold to
persons desiring such, and advice is always given to any enquirer.
The Chief Inspector is the Rat Officer for the Borough.
CINEMAS AND MUSIC HALLS.
The premises licensed for music, dancing and cinema performances
have been regularly inspected and special attention
given to overcrowding and to the prevention of standing in
passages, gangways, and staircases, and further, that the requirements
of the Council's byelaws regarding doors and lights are
observed. Slight infringements are usually practised at cinemas,
to which the attention of the managers has been directed on a
few occasions. No prosecutions have been instituted for breaches
of byelaws during the year.
SANITARY INSPECTORS' ANNUAL CONFERENCE.
The Council appointed the Chairman of the Public Health
Committee and the Chief Sanitary Inspector to attend the Annual
Conference held at Birmingham in July. The Conference was
presided over by Sir James Crichton-Browne, M.D., L.L.D.,
F.R.S., and was addressed by his Worship the Mayor of
Birmingham. Subjects of great importance having an immediate
bearing on the needs of the hour were considered and discussed
and resolutions carried. The Conference lasted several days, and
it was generally agreed to have been time profitably spant.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
(Signed) JOSEPH G. BANKS,
Chief Sanitary Inspector.