§ Mr. FabricantTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what measures he proposes to ensure that rats do not escape into properties from sewers. [68117]
§ Mr. MealeSewerage undertakers have ongoing programmes to control and reduce the number of rats in public sewers. These include baiting, which is usually targeted only in those areas where there is evidence of 633W rats so as to avoid unnecessary waste of funds. In following up one of the recommendations of the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee Report on Sewage Treatment and Disposal, my officials are initiating discussions between the Local Government Association and Water UK to establish what further action may be needed, who should carry it out and whether local authorities need greater powers. The water industry is also conducting research into the most effective ways of controlling rats in sewers.
§ Mr. FabricantTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will incorporate a rodent damage test for drainage pipes in the review of Part H of the Building Regulations. [68119]
§ Mr. RaynsfordIn considering whether the advice on preventing rodent damage needs to be strengthened, the review of Part H will consider all relevant issues.
§ Mr. FabricantTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of recent trends in the level of rat infestations of homes and businesses. [68120]
§ Mr. RaynsfordThe DETR's 1996 English House Condition Survey collected data on the incidence or rodents and the types of treatments that are being used to treat any infestation. Results should be published later this year.