HL Deb 15 October 1996 vol 574 c210WA
The Earl of Sandwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to their answer of 1st July (WA 87) on rat infestation in British homes, whether they can confirm that responsibility for this question lies with the local authorities and not with the water companies.

Lord Lucas

Yes. The Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 puts the responsibility for the enforcement and monitoring of rodent control with local authorities.

Water companies, like other owners and occupiers of land, have a duty to carry out the necessary control measures, when ordered to do so by local authorities.