HC Deb 26 January 1948 vol 446 cc654-5
48. Mr. Platts-Mills

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that houses in industrial areas are constantly in need of rat disinfestation; and whether he is prepared to encourage the use of rat operatives by removing from local authorities the obligation to charge for their services.

Mr. T. Williams

I am aware of the need for rat destruction in industrial areas, and local authorities are urged and assisted to maintain effective rat control. The recovery from the occupier of expenditure incurred by local authorities for rat destruction on premises is provided for in Section 3 (1) of the Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919, and it does not rest with me to intervene.

Mr. W. Fletcher

Does a rat operative belong to a different union from that of a rat catcher?