The Amman Valley Chronicle and East Carmarthen News

POOLES, Ammanford. Week commencing January 20, 1919. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. COMSCIBMCB. Featuring GLADYS BROCKWELL. A Wondcpful Psycliic Drama. OUR USUAL FEATURES. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. iw SPECIAL J! "Wf j D. WALKER'S World Famous Fllm- THE LITTLE AMERICAN. E ww S RIAL "The Moon Child," THURSDAY.

AMMANFORD. The boisterous and stormy weather of last week caused some damage in the town and district. Some telegraph wires were blown -down, and the large plate-glass window of :he establishment of Mrs. Phillips, tobacconist, Quay Street, was smashed during the gale on Thursday. Slates and tiles were also dis- jocated in certain parts of the town. Priv. Jack Lewis, of 59, High Street, has returned home from France, where he served with the 47th London T erritorial Regiment. He joined the Army about two years ago, and was present at the operations which pre- cedto the capture of Lilb. Prior to enlistment he was a pupil of Liar.dilo County School, and had passed ah examination entitling him to admission into a college. Sister H. jores, who is a sister to Mr. J. Bowen Jones, ironmonger, has been awarded the R.R.C. (Royal Red Cross). Sister Jones is now in a place ten miles out of Dinant, on the river Meuse, in Belgium, and is housed in the chateau which was built by King Leopold of Belgium. She has been four and a half years in France, three and a half years in the actual fighting line. She will return to this country to receive the decoration. Another local hero who has rendered valu- able service for his King and country has resumed to Ammanford in the person of Priv. John Gregory, or iO, Union Street. He joined the Army in August, 1914, and was .attached to the R.A.M.C. He was sent out .to Salonica, where he served for some time, for some time, and also in Egypt and Palestine. He was present at many of the chief battles, and fortunately has escaped injury throughout the four years of his service. H e is at present fusiliers, ana anticipates being discharged from the Army shortly. Mr. Joseph Williams, of Glynyreithin Farm, Bettws, unfortunately sustained a serious accident at Ammanford No. I Colliery on Saturday morning last whilst following his occupation. His foot was severely injured by a loaded tram which passed over it, and as a result he was conveyed home in a vehicle lent by Mr. Sheen. It was found that the injury was a serious one, and on Monday the unfortunate man was conveyed to Swansea and admitted into hospital, where on exami- nation it was discovered that amputation of the limb near the knee was necessary. The operation was performed on Monday. Mr. Williams has been employed as a miner for about 20 years. It is hoped that he will make good improvement Great sympathy is felt with the family intheir trouble. Priv. Gomer Evans, whose home is at 9. Field Street, has returned home. He joined the Army voluntarily in 1916, and was drafted out t<> France, where he took part in several thrilling engagements. He sustained an accident about ten yeajrs ago, when his upper arm was seriously fractured by a cart loaded with coal passing over it. He was then admitted into a hospital, and after undergoing treatment re was discharged, it being found that nothing, further could be done to improve the injury. However, Priv. Evans was subsequently aonitted into a London hospital, where he underwent special treatment, and also had certain plates fitted into his arm. It was in that condition that he volunteered for service, and though being practically rejected, he insisted on being accepted for service. Priv. Evans' father ? an old soldier and served in Egypt. On Wednesday morning, a very pretty wedding was solemnised at Ebenezer Baptist ;Chapel, the contracting parties being Miss R. Harries, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harries, of Pendennis," Llandebie Road, Tirydail, and Mr. E. T. Davies, of Church Street, Ammanford. The bride, who was attired in a charming grey costume, with velour hat, was given away by her father, and was at- tended as bridesmaid by Miss Wheelhouse, Bettws, who wore an attractive costume and a velour toque. The duties of best man were performed by Mr. Fraok Hill, of London. The Revs. J. Griffiths, B.A., B.D., and J. Havelock Roderick officiated at the ceremony. A large assembly of relatives, friends and ,well-wishers partook of the wedding break- -f ast at the bride's residence. Mr. and Mrs. Da vies were the recipients of numerous and costly presents. Their many friends wish them ldng life and happiness. Gunner John Evans has returned home after havmg served his King and country since 1914. He was attached to tke Indian Expe- ditionary Force, amd saw service with the -first reinforcements in Gallipoli and the Dardanelles immediately after the landing. I "During the heavy fightIng, Gunner Evans was wounded m the leg, and was admitted into hospital at Cairo. He also se ved in Meso potamia, and was wounded on a second occa- sion. He is now home on sick leave, and is a splendid type of the men of our Army. He resides at 26, High Street, and is well known h) the town and district, having been employed at Ammanford Colliery for very many years. Gunner Evans still suffers from the effects of the serious wounds he sustained, '-lid is handicapped in walking owing to the M't that certain operations had to be per- fom'-d to extract some sinews from his leg. HIs my fronds wish him a complete and speedy r.coverv ? On M,?o?y evening, an excellent recep- ti'ort concert was held at the Gwynfryn I ^'n T r?'?- Harold Jones, David Jones, avld b?ies. Johnny L" is, Willie o'vp^ Tnomas, and Danny -?omas were gIven a harty .??ome after serving their  the 8teat ??- The following programme was gone through :-Pianoforte solo, Mr. Tom Thomas (organist) solo, Madam Harry Jones; solo, Miss Edith Hughes; solo, Mr. Tom Williams; duet, Madam Harry Jones and Mr. Tom Williams; recitation, Rev. D. Bryniog Thomas, pastor; solo, Master Gwyn Thomas; recitation, Miss Rachel Griffiths; solo, Mr. W. T. Rhys (College Street) duet, Messrs. Tom Wil- liams and Eddie Thomas. Appropriate ad- dresses were delivered by Mr. T. Rosser (secretary of the church) and Mr. Evan Jones (deacon). A successful concert was brought to a close by the singing of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." A very successful reception concert was held at Ebenezer Vestry on Thursday evening, the 9th inst., to welcome Priv. John Davies, Gunner Elvet Lewis, and Seaman D. J. Lloyd, all of Ammanford. The concert was ably presided over by Mr. Stephen Jones, of Tirydail. The usual gifts on behalf of the church were presented to the recipients by Messrs. C. Clapton, D. Morgan, and D. Williams. The following programme was ar- ranged by Mr. Brynmor Davies, who deserves praise for his valued services:—Recitations, Miss R. Griffiths and Mr. Joseph Phillips; solos, Mr. Evan Evans, Glanamman, Mr. Tom Bevan, Saron (encored), Mr. Haydn Richards, Mr. T. Griffiths, Mr. Brynley Williams, Miss Blodwen Thomas, Miss Kate Whitter, and Miss Drinkwater. The concert was concluded by the singing of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau," Miss Kate Whitter taking the solo. Mr. Willie Leyshon, T.C.L., Tiry- dail, efficiently performed the duties of accom- panist. An appropriate short address was delivered by the Rev. J. Griffiths, B.A., B.D., pastor. Among local heroes home this week is Corpl. Edward Evans, who is attached to the 4th Welsh, whose home is at 10, Union Street. Corpl. Evans is an old soldier, and at the time of the outbreak of war he was with Tt. c lccai company ui TCllILVlHU:, hi camp at Portmadoc. When the news qf war became known, Corpl. Evans, in company with others, was sent home, and on the fol- lowing day-5th August, 1914-he left Ammanford in accordance with the orders then issued. After serving in this country, he was eventually despatched to the Darda- nelles, and was present in the memorable landing at Suvla Bay. He was unfortu- nately wounded after landing, and also con- tracted fever. After his recovery, he was sent to Egypt, where he participated in several important encounters. He also took part in the campaign in Palestine, and was present at the battles of Nablus, Gaza, Beersheba, and also the skirmishes around the outskirts of Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives. Corpl. Evans was in the battles at Hebron, Beth- lehem, and around the Judean Hill, and he was with the first Company which made the memorable entry into Jerusalem. 1 he weather was most objectionable, so Corpl. Evans says, rain falling for seven days. Sergt.- Instructor James Evans, of Llandebie Road, Tirydail, is a brother of Corpl. Evans. Amid every manifestation of sorrow and regret, the mortal remains of the late Mr. David R. Davies, a son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Cathan Davies, of k 16, Pentwyn Road, Bettws, were interred at Hen Gapel burial- ground, Bettws, on Thursday, the 9th inst. The deceased was a highly esteemed young man, and will be greatly missed. He was taken ill on Christmas Day, and his demise took place on Monday, the 6th inst. A large concourse of people attended the funeral to pay their last tribute of respect. Ministers of the local Free Church Council were present at the funeral Mr. W. Cathan Davies, father qf the deceased, being the president of the sa i Councl,I The coffin was covered by Roml tributes. The renewing ministers offi- ciated:-ev. B. EUis Jones, B.A., Rev B. Davies, B.A. (curate), Rev. J. Griffiths, B.A., B.D., wid the Rev. Nantlais Will iams. The chief mourners were:—Mr. and Mrs. W. Cathan Davies (fa?er and mother) Mr Arthur Davies (brother) ■, Howell, Emrys and Ena Davies (brothers and sister) Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Esgergathan, near Bettws (grandfather and grandmother) Mr. David Roberts, LlaRelly (uncle) Mr. W. Roberts, Glanamman (uncle) Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Roberts, Ammanford (uncle and aunt) Mr. and Mrs. P. Roberts, Glanamman (uncle and aunt) Mr. W. Davies, Bettws (uncle) Mr. B. Davies, Bettws (uncle) Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Waunherod, Bettws (uncle and aunt) and several other near and distant relatives. Floral tributes were sent by the Family; Mr. C. Roberts, Glanamman (cousin) Miss Miles and Miss J. George, rout, Ammanford Students and Teachers of the Evening Classes, Bettws. The de- Bettws; Cousins at Waunherod; Mr. George ceased was employed at Pantyffynnon Col- liery, and was a member of Capel Newydd, Bettws. Great sympathy is felt with the family in their sorrow. After having served in the Army for about four years, Corpl. T. C. Thomas, a son of the late Mr. Charles Thomas, painter, Tiry- dail, and Mrs. Pendlebury, of Station Road, Tirydail, has returned home. Corpl. Thomas Was attached to the local Territorials, and was away jn camp at Portmadoc when war was declared. W e was immediately sent home, and had to leave on the following day to resume training and render service on a certain part of the coast. In July, 1915, he was draftetd to the Dardanelles, and went through the memorable landing at Suvla Bay. He attained his 21 st birthday on the day he landed at Suvla. After taking part in heavy fighting he was wounded, and was admitted into hospital at Malta. After recuperating he reioined his unit, aad was despatched to Palestine, and participated in the heavy fight- ing around Hebron Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives. When the entry into Jerusalem was made, the inhabitants were in ecstacies, and the streets were thronged with people. The citizens informed the Britishers that Johnny Turk had relieved them of the greater part of their possessions, and the arrival of the British was greatly wel- comed. Prior to the arrival of the British troops, the terrorised inhabitants of Jerusalem were afraid to leave their houses, and their joy on being able to go about unmolested can easily be imagined. Corpl. Thomas now awaits his discharge from the Army. He considers that the campaign in Palestine was prolonged owing to a lack of reinforce- ments during the early stages. When fresh troops arrived, the tables were soon turned, and success attended the efforts of the Allies. He relates a strange coincidence which hap- pened during the campaign in the Holy Land. On three occasions the 53rd Welsh Regiment was opposed to the 53rd Turkish Regiment, and on each occasion the Welsh came out on top. Several local boys returned home in company '.vith Corpl. Thomas, in- cluding the following:—Priv. Harold Jones, College Street; Priv. Allen, Park Terrace, Penybank; Sergt. Morgan Thomas, Garnant (formerly of Llandebie Road, Tirydail) Sergt. D. J. Hughes, Penybank; and Prir. Saddler, Llandebie. Corpl. Thomas, who is attached to the 4/5th Welsh Regiment, now awaits his discharge from the Army.

I BRYNAMMAN. On Saturday evening and Sunday, special preaching services were held at the English Congregational Church, when the Rey. Gwilym Rees, M.A., Pontypool, delivered effective sermons. Mr. Enoch Bowen led the singing, and Miss Sally Williams presided at the organ. On Thursday evening last, an edifying lec- ture was delivered on the subject, Old Welsh Hymnists," by Miss Mildred Williams, B.A., Swansea (a native of Glanamman), at Ebenezer Chapel. The event was under the auspices of the Brynamman Welsh Society, who have decided to run a series of similar lectures during the winter months. The Rev. W. D. Thomas occupied the chair. The discourse was highly appreciated.

CWMAMMAN. The Amman Juniors journeyed to Llandebie on Saturday to try conclusions with the vil- lagers. They were minus severa,l of their usual players, and were defeated by a try. We are pleased to see Sergt. Morgan Thomas, of Coronation Road, looking so well after his four years' experience in Egypt and other theatres of war. Sergt. Thomas is a native of Tirydail, Ammanford, and prior to joining the Colours was employed at Tirydail Co I I ierv. At a meeting of the Cwmamman Chamber of Trade, held on the 7th inst., comment was made upon the present quality of the gas and the unsatisfactory light obtainable therefrom, and after discussion the following resolution was passed:—" That unless an improvement in the quality of gas should be apparent during the week, all tradesmen in Gamant and Glan- amman would cease -to consume gas." A public meeting of ratepayers was held at Stepney Hall, Garnant, on Monday even- ing to consider the advisability of rescinding the present method of paying the rates. Very appropriate speeche6 were delivered by Mr. Bob Edwards and others, and it was unani- mously passed to rectify the present system Mr. W. E. Jones presided over the meeting. A reception concert in honour of Priv. Hamer, of Coronation Road, was held at the National Schools on Tuesday of last week, when the chair was occupied by the Rev. W. Williams (vicar). The accompanist was Mr. John Morgan, L.L.C.M., and many local artistes contributed to the programme. Priv. Hamer was home on short leave from hos- pital, having been wounded in the leg by a mwluri. oi,» bullet diirioir the nush the Somme last September.

GORSLAS. I At the reception concert held at the Public Hall on the 3rd inst., a vote of condolence was passed with the widow and child of the late Mr. Eben Hughes, treasurer of the Recepticn Committee. A successful concert, under the auspices of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Comforts Fund, was held on Tuesday evening to welcome home Priv. Anthony Davies and Priv. Ed. Williams, who have been doing duty in France. The chair was occupied by Mr. James Thomas, Church Road (in the un- avoidable absence of Mr. Tom Evans, Co- operative Stores), and an excellent programme was contributed by Mr. Ivor Evans, Mr. Tom Jones, Mr. David Jones, Mr. Tom Thomas, Mrs. Gus Griffiths, Miss L. M. Davies, and Mr. H. Hughes. The accompanist was Mr. David William Hughes. T.C.L., who carried out his duties in his usual efficient manner. The heroes were presented with cheques by Mrs. Gus Griffiths and Miss L. M. Davies on behalf of the Reception Com- mittee. The concert came to a close with the singing of the National Anthem, Miss L. M. Davies taking the solo.

LLANDILO. ,1 1 here is an unusually large number ot soldiers and sailors on leave in the town. All look in the pink of condition and seem to enjoy excellent health. Ordination meetings in connection with the Welsh Congregational Church at Pontyberem were held on Monday and Tuesday. The charge to the church was delivered by the Rev. Wm. Davies, The Walk. At the Ebenezer Baptist Guild, held on Tuesday evening, the 7th inst., an interesting paper descriptive of a visit to the home and neighbourhood of Robert Burns, the Scotch poet, was read by Mr. George W. Jenkins. Mr. Rhydderch Davies presided in his usual genial manner. On the motion of Mr. A. E. Evans, seconded by the Chairman, and sup- ported by the pastor (Rev. G. Edmund Williams), a very cordial vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Jenkins.for his most interest- ing paper. There was a good attendance. A magic lantern entertainment, under the auspices of the Capel Newydd Band of Hope, was held on Tuesday, when an address was delivered (illustrated by views) by Mr. G. Gwyn Jones, B.A., County School, on "The Life of Christ," A Tour through North Wales," and John Bull, Junior." The slides were manipulated by Mr. H. W. Griffiths, Gwili House, Rhosmaen Street. There was a crowded attendance. A musical programme was gone through, to which the following contributed :-Miss Evelyn Williams, Adelaide House, Ffairfach (" The Bettel Land ) duet, Miss May Edwards, Canister House, and Miss Bronwen Williams, Adelaide House. Choruses were also rendered by the Band of Hope Chair, conducted by Miss Elsie Williams. The funeral took place on Saturday last of Mrs. Anna Maria Nicholas, widow of the late Mr. Thomas Nicholas, formerly of Pentre Parr, Llaindilo, whose death took place some few days previously at her residence at Car- marthen, and an account of whose death ap- peared in our issue of last week. The body was brought by train from Carmarthen, arriving at Llandilo Bridge Station fi'icat 3 o'clock p.m., where it was met by a large number of the inhabitants of the town and neighbour- hood, the deceased lady being well known. She was the daughter of the late Dr. John Griffiths, who for the long period of 25 years was vicar of Llandilo-fawr, immediately pre- ceding the late Rev. Lewis Price. At the churchyard gates the body was met by the Ven. Archdeacon Robert Williams, vicar of Llandilp-fawr; Rev. B. Parry Griffiths, vicar of St. Peter's, Carmarthen; Rev. R. H. Roberts, Maesteilo; and the Rev. W. Arthur Jones, B.A., ourate, all of whom took part in the service. The chief mourners were:— Mr. J. W. Nicholas, Clerk to the Carmarthen- shire County Council, and Mrs. Nicholas (son and daughter-in-law) Miss Nicholas and Miss Betty Nicholas, Brynteilo (nieces). The coffin was of massive oak, with brass fittings, and bore the inscription: Anna Maria Nicholas, born January 25tli 1834; died January 7th, 1919." The arrangements were in the hands of Mr. John Stephens, London House, Llandilo.

I PENYGROES. A reception concert in honour of Mr. R. Evans, Mr. Whitridge Davies, Mr. John Keene, and Mr. M. Davies, all discharged men, was held at the Penygroes Council Schools on Friday evening last. Stoker Morgan Morgan, Caerbryn, occupied the chair, and the following artistes contributed to the programme:—Miss L. M. Davies, Saron; Miss May Williams, Voelgastell; Mr. Henry W. John, Caerbryn; and the Penygroes Silver Band (conductor, Mr. D. Williams). Mr. D. W. Hughes, Gorslas, accompanied. The guests were presented with the usual gifts by Mrs. Griffiths, Gorslas. Mr. David Mainwaring proposed a vote of thanks to all who had taken part, Mrs. Williams seconding. Mr. H. W. John sang the solos of the Welsh and English National Anthems, bringing a very pleasant concert to a close. This week's concert will be held to-morrow (Friday) evening in the Congre- gational Vestry. It will be good for the cause of the recep- tion business to enlighten the inhabitants of Gorsddu with regard to the son of Mr. Wm. James, of Gorsddu, who has been home on leave recently, and who did not have a reception concert. Mr. James interviewed the local committeeman (Mr. George Bancroft), and asked him to inform the Committee that he did not desire to have any concert for his son, and that, if a concert was held, his son would not be present; further, that if the Committee should decide to send the usual gift to his son, it would be returned. There- fore, the Committee considered it would only be a waste of time and energy to promote a concert for this particular soldier. Also, owing to a misunderstanding, Priv. Noah Jones, of Gorsddu, has gone back to depot without having a concert held to wel- come him but half the usual sum of money has been advanced to him, and he will re- ceive the remainder when he next ccmes home, when he will also be honoured with the usual concert. Outlines of Local Government I HOUSING AND TOWN-PLANNING. The problem of the last generation was to provide gas and water; the problem of the next is to provide light and air. "-Professor Muirhead. I believe the housing question to be at bottom a religious question, and that it is necessary to face it in the light of the Chris- tian ideal of life and character. "— E. Hand. The housing problem, alike in town and country, is frauiht with the most vital issues; a cheap, sanitaty, spacious, stable fabric of a home, in wholesome, agreeable, and stimu- lating surroundings, is a prime necessary of wholesome family life. Such a home is im- possible for the vast majority of the people under existing land tenure.J. A. Hobson. The housing problem in this country has become acute, and may now be stated as con- sisting in (see Housing in England and Wales," a pamphlet recently issued by the Ministry of Reconstruction): -L-,k-ge of houses amounting to between 300,000 and 400,000 for England and Wales. This is quite apart from any further shortage which would be created by the closing of slum houses. According to the Report of the Census of 1911, no fewer than one-tenth of the popuation were living under overcrowded conditions; and this, notwith- standing the fact that people are only re- garded as being overcrowded if they are Living more than two to a room, including living-rooms, and that children under four- teen are only counted as half a person. The shortage is widespread. We have no room to live." (b) A large number of defective and in- sanitary houses which are unfit for human beings to live in. (c) In many towns, slum areas consisting of crowded and narrow courts and streets. Powers of Local Authorities. I Various Acts of Parliament were passed during the 19th century and the present cen- tury for the purpose of improving the condi- tions under which the workers were housed. The following are the chief enactments:— (1) Many of the provisions. of the Public Health Acts (particularly the Act of 1875) deal with housing questions; (2) The Housing of the Working Classes Acts, 1890 to 1903, and the Housing and Town Planning Act, 1909; (3) The Small Dwellings Acquisition Act, 1899; (4) The circular recently issued by the Local Government Board, offering financial assistance to Local Authorities. Under all these Acts the Local Authority, —i.e., the Borough or Urban District Council in the towns and the Rural District Council in the counties—is the responsible authority for carrying out the law, subject to the general supervision of the Local Government Board. 1. Powers of Councils under the Public Health Acts. An Urban District or Borough CouRcil have considerable powers in con- trolling the erection of buildings. The Coun- cil can only control buildings on certain specified points; they have no general rights to interfere in matters of taste ov convenience. The Council cannot reject plans at their own discretion, but only on the ground that they are contrary to an Act of Parliament or to the existing by-laws, but they must reject .hem if they are contrary to either; they have DO power to excuse compliance with their own by-laws. New building lines may be prescribed before approving pans, but not after, and on tendering compensation. Building by-laws may be made by the Council as to: ( I ) Level, width, &c., of new streets; (2) strllc- ture of walls, chimneys, &c., of new build- ings (3) sufifciency of air space; (4) drainage, &c. And may enforce the observ- ance of them in various ways. The Council may not hinder enterprise by delaying the approval of plans. They must approve or disapprove within one month of the proper and regular deposit of the plans and notices required by the by-laws, and if the builder can shew that his building contravenes no statute or by-law, he is safe in commencing work after that period, without receiving approval. On the other hand, the Council have the drastic remedy of power to pull down a building which contravenes a statute cr a by-law, or is begun aftet proper notice of disapproval, or within a month of deposit- Irig plans. No building in any street in any urban dis- trict may be brought forward beyond the front wall of the building on either side with- out the consent of the Council, ever though the builder owns the laud in lront. If the Public Health Acts Amendment Act" 1907, Part II., has beert extended to its district, the Council have certain re/.trding plans. .The most important are. that aUer lapse of three years, if the work has not been com- menced, the approval of the plans may be declared of no effect, and that Councils may retain plans deposited with them. Before 1907 these powers were often obtained by local Acts. Back-to-back houses may not be built unless the street plans were passed before May, 1909. 2.- The provisions made by the Housing of the Working Classes Acts, 1890 to 1903, and the Housing, Town Planning, &c., 1909, are remedial, constructive, and preventative. (1) Remedial Provisions provide for (i.) Improvement Schemes under Part I. of the Act of 1890 for large areas: (a) Prepared upon representation of the Medical Officer of Health or two magistrates or twelve ratepayers; (b) Scheme drawn up and advertised, and notices served on owners. Must pro- vide for the dispossessed unless the Local Government Board otherwise decide. (c) Local Government Board hold a local enquiry, and may confirm the scheme with or without modifications, which must be put into operation by the Local Authority. (ii.) Reconstruction Scheme: under Part II. of the Act of 1890 and (a) Prepared upon similar representations Part I. of the Housing and Town Planning, &c., Act, 1909. (b) Scheme drawn up and notices served on owners, but need not be advertised (c) Enquiry held and similar procedure adopted as in the case of Improvement Schemes. (iii.) Houses: (a) Any house unfit for human habitation must be closed by a "closing order" (b) Action may be taken by the Medical Officer of Health or four or more househo lders. Notice served on owatr, who has a right of appeal to the Local Government Board (c) After thref months, if the owner does not render house fit for habitation, the Council may issue a demolition order," which must be enforced within six months. (2) Cohstructive Provisions under Part III. of the Act of 1890 and Part I. of the Act of 1909 enable a Council to (a) Acquire land by agreement or com- pulsorily by means of an order confirmed by the Local Government Board; (b) The Council may build and manage houses; lay out public streets, or con- tribute towards the cost of streets; (c) May lease the land to any person who will undertake to build the class of houses required. For such leasing, the consent of the County Council is re- quired in rural districts, and of '•he Local Government Board in urban dis- tricts. (.3) The Small Dwellings Acquisition Act, 1899, may be adopted, whereby the Local Authority may advance to a ratepayer four- fifths of their valuation of a house to be occupied by the applicant. Value must not exceed £400, and not more than £300 can be advanced. Rate of interest must not ex- ceed one-half per cent. above the rate at which the Local Authority can borrow from the Public Works Loans Commissioners. (4) Public Utility Societies. The Housing Acts authorise the Public Loans Commis- sioners to advance loans to Public Utility Societies (that is to say, Co-operative or other societies registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts, and limiting their profits to 5 per cent.) equal to two- thirds of the value of the property. (5) Preventative Provisions. The Housing and Town Planning Act, 1909, provides that in the case of every house let after Decem- ber, 1909, if the rent is not more than i40 in London, S.26 in a place of 50,000 popu- lation, or £16 elsewhere, there is an implied warranty on the part of the landlord to the tenant, that the house is reasonably fit for human habitation. The only exception is that if the letting is on lease for three years or more and the lessee is responsible for repairs. It is the duty of every District or Borough Council to make a periodical inspection of their district for the purpose of ascertaining whether any dwelling-houses are unfit for human habitation, and records of such inspec- tion must be kept in a form prescribed by the Local Government Board. (6) The Circular recently issued by the Local Government Board. It was decided by the War Cabinet in July, 1917, that substan- tial financial assistance would be given to those Local Authorities who are prepared to carry through without delay, at the conclusion of the war, a programme of housing for the working classes which is approved by the Local Government Board." In a circular issued by the Local Govern- ment Board, it is stated that this assistance is to take the following form. An annual grant is to be made for not less than seven years sufficient to relieve the Local Authority of three-quarters of the excess of the amount of the loan outstanding, over the then value of the property, which will be met by the State. Briefly, therefore, in the case of approved scheme:- the State will bear three-quarters of the loss and the Local Authority the re- mainder. But there are some districts where it would be a serious burden for the Local Authority to have to bear even a quarter of any loss. In all cases where one-quarter of the estimated annual deficit would involve the levying of a rate of more than a penny in the f-, the Local Government Board is to have discretion to increase the Government grant. But the loss to be borne by the Local Authority in such case must not be reduced below the produce of a rate of a penny in the £." This assistance is only to be available for a limit time after the war, and subject to the condition that in all ordinary cases build- ing shall be commenced within two months, and completed within twelve months, from the date of the Local Government Board sanc- tioning the loan for the scheme." As regards the loans for the schemes, it is stated that any loans by the State for the purpose of assisted schemes would be made at the full market rate of interest current from time to time, and not at the preferential rates ordinary allowed for housing loans, in order (1) that the whole of the State assistance may be given under one head, and (2) that Local Authorities may be encouraged to borrow on their own credit rather than to have recourse to State capital funds.' Where the Local Authorities, in spite of admitted need, fail to take adequate steps. Mr. Hayes Fisher has plainly hinted in public speeches that they will be suppanted by some other authority who will see that houses are built." (Extracts from Housing in England and Wales," a pamphlet issued by the Ministry of Reconstruction). Dejeels in the Housing Acts. The Acts are, to a great extent, mad null and void by the immensity of the problem. In face of overwhelming need, the action of Local Authorities in regard to the housing problem has been pitifully small. The main reason for this is the ruinous coii oj compul- sory purchase. The fear of adding over- whelming burdens acts as a drag on even the most zealous Local Authorities. For example, the Metropolitan Board of Works spent one •nd a half million sterling on merel y pulling down old houses. Manchester has spent £ 160,000 in displacing 2.600 persons Greenock, £ 127.500; while the Wolver- hampton Impvovemt o* Scheme added a sum :>f £7,000 a year to the rates. The fact is that legislation dealing with the demolition of slums is not nearly drastic enough. The responsibility for the condition of bad houses should fall on the owner, not on the com- munity. Reforms. Mr. Arthur Page Grubb suggests the fol- lowing reforms:— (I ) To extend the period for repayment of loans made by Local Authorities for building purposes. (2) The adoption of stringent regulations respecting all single-family houses which are converted into tenements; e.g., the strict limitation of the number of persons allowed to occupy such converted buildings. (3) In order that the inspection may be rendered as impartial and thorough as pos- sible, medical officers of health and sanitary inspectors should be placed under the control of'the Imperial Government. [The Medical Officer of Health for the borough of Llandovery (see South Wales News," January 10th, 1919) asked the borough to make representations to the Local Government Board with a view to their appointing an inspector to come down tc report on the condition of housing in the borough. Having regard to his private prac- tice, he thought this would be fair, otherwise it might give the impression that he was against everybody in the town. He men- tioned the case of a farm in the rural district concerning which he had to report to the Rural Council some time ago. The man had never come near him since, nor was he likely to. There were a number of Councillors who owned houses. ] (4) To penalise the owners of slum pro- perty who batten on the degradation and misery of the overcrowded poor. (5) The alteration of the leasehold system. The pernicious land system blocks the way to all progress. In every branch of social reform the enquirer is brought up short by: the land question. But let us not forget that the one decisive factor in solving the housing, as well as all other social problems, is the awakening of interest and the exercise of his power by each citizen. No interests can ulti- mately withstand aroused and instructed public opinion. Let our aim be "to build Jerusalem in England's green and pleasant land." Bibliography. I (1) Housing in England and Wales; published by His Majesty' s Stationery Office. 2d. (2) Houses for the People (Fabian Tract). I d. (3) Cottage Plans and Common Sense (Fabian Tract). 11. (4) Homes of the London Poor. Octavius Hill. (Macmillan) I s. net. (5) Housing. Percy Alden and E. E. Hayward, M.A. (Headley). I s. set. (6) Housing Conditions of Manchester and Salford. T. C. Marr. (Sherratt, Man- chester) Is. net. (7) No Room to Live. G. Haw. (Daily News Office). 6d. net. 8. The Housing Handbook. W. Thomp- son. (Aldridge). 2s. 6d. net. (9) The Housing of the Working C lasses. Dr. E. Bowmaker. (Methuen). 2s. 6d.

Our Letter Box. A DISCLAIMER., To the Editor, Amman Valley Chronicle. Sir,—As I have been wrongfully accused by several persons in the district, I, John Williams, of Gellyceidrim Farm, Garnant, beg to state that I am not the farmer reported in your columns last week as having been convicted and fined at the Ammanford Police Court on Monday, January 6th, for adul- teration of milk. (Signed) JOHN WILLIAMS. January 16th, 1919. [The above-named was not the John Williams charged with adulteration of milk, the defendant being resident at another farm —ED.]

LLANDEBIE RECEPTION COM- MITTEE. To the Editor, Amman Valley Chronicle. Sir,—Kindly allow me a little space in your valuable paper to ask what has become of the Llandebie Soldiers' and Sailors' Recep- tion Committee? Are they alive? It seems as if they have fallen victims to'the 'Flu." It is felt by the local soldiers who have sacri- ficed so much, that they certainly deserve to be treated in a different way. They have fought for our freedom and for civilisation, and they are an honour to themselves and to their country. Some of them have won deco- rations, including the D.C.M., and the Mons Star ribbon is worn by several. What passes their comprehension is that they are not seen by those particular people who have spent most of their time in ease and comfort at home, and who are supposed to recognise at least the defenders of our cause. I trust these few words will wake them up to a realisation of their duty in seeing how many heroes from the village have won war honours, and also how many have been discharged and ignored. —Yours, &c., OLD SOLDIER.

I WELSH CHURCH FOURTEEN POINTS. To the Editor, Amman Valley Chronicle. Sir,—Under the above heading, the Rev. D. J. Llewelyn, Beaufort Vicarage, published fourteen points against the Disestablishment and Disendowment of the Established Church in Wales. Without answering the famous fourteen points, every student of history knows that every one of his points are misleading and erroneous; only artificial clouds to blind the Welsh people. The best thing we can do with the past history of the Church, estab- lished by Henry VIII. is to forget it. The Established Church of England was established to justify the immoral life of King Henry VIII., the worst character in English history. Read how this head of the Church robbed the monasteries and religious houses of all endowments and all other properties belonging to the Roman Catholic Church, and gave the spoils to his own Church. So please do not squeak when you have got to give some of the spoils up to the nation. The Welsh Church Act gives the Welsh Church justice and equality. We know how the Churchpeople treated the Nonconformists over the tithes; how they sold furniture, and even sold Peggy Lewis' cow—a poor old widow's property. This is sufficient proof, and every schoolboy knows history. Every Liberal and Labour member of Parliament must see that the Welsh Church Act is not tampered with. Churchpeople must maintain their own Church, as Nonconformists maintain their chapek. This is only justice, and what was needed.— Yours, &c., NONCONFORMIST.

"DEMOCRACY OR ANARCHY?" To the Editor, A mman Valley Chronicle. Sir,-Will you kindly spare me a little space in your next issue to reply to "A Workman's letter on the above subject. A Workman begins by asserting that the Labour Party' s cry of Labour versus Capitalism during the recent Election was introduced to mislead the people. May I ask him to spend a few hours to go through the. records of our Coalition members, and ask himself the plain question: Are these the men who are going to make this country safe for Democracy? He proceeds to attack the Labour Party a'-out condemning Germany for what she has done. Has he heard the Labour demand for an International Court of Justice? My friend, A Workman," did you hear a Coalitionist demand such a thing? Did you hear a Coalitionist orator condemn the perpetrators of the Mesopotamian horrors? Did you hear any of them ccademn the system that allows the rich and idle to waste un- earned wealth to their own selfish ends, while little children of hard-working people are packed away in unhealthy slums to drag out a miserable existence? Is not the vagrant, the drunkard, and the harlot the product of such a system? Did you ever hear any of our Coalition friends demand the hanging of the profiteer? Did you hear a Coalitionist demand Home Rule for India? Do not be misled, my friend. A Labour man tells us that we are human beings, with men's and women's rights, and with men's and women's capacities for all that is best in mankind. What do we do? We hoot him, and call him a liar and a fool, and an enemy of the people; and we teJI him that he is working for the downfall of the country. The capitalist-politician tells us that he is the man to watch our interests, and that if we were entrusted with the use and the care of the wealth we produce, we would at once be- come a set of drunken wasters: and WI; shew our appreciation of him by returning him to Parliament with a huge majority. To pay a Trade Union to fight the capitalists during a strike, and to vote for a capitalist at the election, seems to me to be the height of folly. There are no Tories, Liberals, or Coalitionists amongst the employers during a strike; they are all capitalists, and fight against the workers. We never elect a capi- talist on our Works Committees, or on a Trade Union; but at a Parliamentary Elec- tion, where Labour men are most needed to represent us, we turn round* and choose the men whose ideals are dead set against us. You want us to think what an individual or two belonging to the Labour Party think. I should like you and every other workman to remember what the Labour Party has done for us, and to compare the conditions of to- day with the conditions our fathers and fore- fathers forked under, and to thank God-, and the capitalists—for the change.— Yours, &c., SOCIALIST.

To the INHABITANTS OF THE DISTRICT. "AL T THE DISTRICT. Please NOTE THAT ■« $ MAfiTIN L. EDWARDS ?? ilSIl! (Member of the National A3sciatiOB oi Master   ?————?S? Monumental Sculptors) HSFjW Has OPENED A BUSINESS oil AS MONUMENTAL SCULPTOR and STONECUTTER, Opposite Christian Temjjfe Chapel, High St., AMMANFORD. In the meantime l,un":U a Residence !s acquired), please call with Mr. Rees Jones, Cabinet Maker, for all information.