Pioneer

Briton Ferry Notes. Chas. G. Ammon Speaks. Under the auspices of the I.L.P. Mr. Chas. G. Amnion (London) visited here on Sunday last, June 24th, and for an hour spoke to a magni- ficent audience;. Another Missionary. In my notes of last week I oinitted the name! of Mr. Donald Gibbon, who, with the others named, has planned out a missionary career. Trades Council Notes. Mr. D. L. Mort gave a report of the Ijeeds Conference at the local Trades and Labour Coun- cil meeting on Saturday, June 23rd. At the same meeting a resolution of protest was lodged against the action of the Sailors' and Firemen's Union (represented by J. Havelock Wilson) for their illegal hold-up" of Macdonald, Jowett and party. The resolution was unanimously car- ried. The above has a membership of about 2,000. The Baglan Bay branch, Gwalia, and Briton Ferry Steel No. 1 passed similar resolu- tions. Notices Tendered. The Briton Ferry Ironworkers have tendered their notices. It appears that a bonus of Temper week from March last is due to them. The Man- agement last week granted a bonus of Is. per week from June last. This the men resented and accordingly, a#stated above, have handed in their notices.

Wage Earners' Income Tax HOW THE MINER IS AFFECTED. I BY EVAN EVANS, I The miners are assessed in respect of the ac- tual amount of their wages each quarter. The method of quarterly assessment does not, how- ever, affect any grant of exemption", relief or abatement which is dependent wholly or partially on the total annual income, and for such pur- poses the total wages of the year are to be treated as the total income of the year. The amount of total income from all sources must first be ascertained apart from any allow- ances, and then on that basis it has to be con- sidered what allowances can be claimed. Should the income be over tl,30 and not over L400 the initial abatement will be £ 120 and to which all other allowances are to be added. The difference after making the deduction from the total amount of income shall be the taxable income. The income tax year commenced on April 6th, therefore a person is entitled to relief of L25 in respect of a child who attains sixteen years on April 7th, of the year in question but is not entitled to relief in respect of any child born after April 5th and during the year in question,. Whether the child who has not reached sixteen years of age be at school, in service, or working in a factory or a mine, it does not affect the relief. A "step-chikl" is included, but not an illegitimate child, unless parents shall have mar- ried after the birth of such child. It is anti- cipated, owing to the strenuous agitation of the Miners' Federation of Great Britain that relief will be granted in relation to an adopted child. Assuming a person's income to be £156, one child and t6 expenses, he cannot claim exemp- tion as coming below -6130 by deducting £31, the amount for child and expenses from £ 156. Instead he is entitled to an abatement of £ 120 and the allowance of t25 for child and £6 for expenses, and has to pay tax on £ 5 at 2s. 3d. in the £ equals lls. 3d. The taxpayer claims relief with regards to In- surance premiums paid on his life or the life of his wife. He also has a right to relief of the amount allotted by his benefit society towards burial expenses, which is considered within the meaning of the Finance Act as a Life Insurance Premium. The coal hewer has deductions for tools, ex- plosives, and checkweigher etc. The timberman and ripper also have deduc- tions for tools they require. Before filling up their tax forms they should enquire of their miners' agents anent the flat rates sanctioned by the Surveyor of Taxes. Persons holding positions in the Miners' Federation or anywhere else which bring emolu- ments are to be assessed at the end of the income tax year in question on the same basis as wages earned by manual labour. All persons should keep their pay dockets for the purpose of ascertaining at the end of the income tax year as to whether they should or should not, pay income tax. It is essential that colliers should keep strict account of wages paid their boys or helpers'to obvious prevarication. When notice of assessment is served on anyone that does not approve of the amount he may ap- pend within 21 days from the date of the notice of assessment. He must give notice of his ob- jection in writing to the Surveyor of Taxes. An appeal may be either to General or Special Com- missioners. But the claim for exemption must come before the General, and not the Special Commissioners. No doubt matters raised by an appeal can often be settled between the surveyor and the appellant by an adjustment, and it does not be- come necessary for the appellant to attend the hearing before the Commissioners. Seemingly the tax collectors who are accepted by the men could assist them greatly in their grievances. The amount of any income tax assessed is deemed summarily as a civil debt, and should it not be paid voluntarily, the County Court authorities would unhesitatingly intrude, causing unpleasant consequences.

Russia's Reply to Seamen. I CORDIAL INVITATION TO MACDONALD I AND JOWETT. The following telegram was received at the I.L.P. London Head Office from Petrograd on Saturday last, the 23rd inst. Executive Committee of Petrograd Coun- cil of Workmen's and Soldiers' Delegates ex- presses its deep respect to Comrades Macdon- ald and Jowett and cordially invites them to visit Petrograd and come in touch with the Revolutionary Democracy of Russia. TCHSBDZE, Chairman."

Bargoed Notes. I The Study Circle. I On Sunday evening the Study Circle met, as ususfil, to discuss the proposed two-days' Sum- mer School," the main object of which is to bring about an understanding between those who believe in political action, and those who believe in industrial action. Comrade Pope, leading off to discuss the merits and defects of the two, urged that the unemployment scheme of tie Miners' Federation was, in effect, subsidizing the employers. Comrade Matthews urged that trade unions were valuable up to a certain point, for organ- izing the workers. We must get M.P.'s to re- present every industry. That would need In ncl:1 education; but what knowledge had Brace of agriculture? But he got it tip, to enable hLn to represent South Glamorgan. rrhearmy was an object-lesson in what could be done in the way of organization, surely the like could be done to build instead of destroying. Comrade Jones urged that only decently-fed children could either think or work well. The object of the Summer School was to find common ground for the politicals and the industrialists. Tonypandy had been suggested, but was too out- of-the-way and difficult to get a.t; Pontypridd or Hengoed would be more central. Comrade W. T. Lloyd told us that many small trade-unions had, by now, united into one; but there were still 75 building trade unions, each with its own office rent and staff of officials. The industrial parliament for the building trade pro- posed by a C.O., should be a great improvement. The politicals were the best trade unionists wit- ness what I.L.P.ers everywhere had done,, in the way of building up the trade unions. Miss Pankhurst's Visit. I On Sunday, the 24th, Sylvia Pankhurst paid us her first visit. We met in the Workmen's In- stitute. Mr. W. T. Lloyd took the chair. There was a large audience, who followed the bril- liant address closely, and punctuated the p- sages with loud applause.

Maesteg Notes. I Trades Council Notes. I A special meeting ot the above eouncu was held at the Maesteg Co-operative Lecture Hall on Wednesday last to pull up the business that had fallen into arrears. Several reports from de- legates appointed to attend conferences on 'be- half of the council had not been received. After the minutes had been disposed of and the cor- respondence had been read including one invita- tion from the f.tocal War Savings Committee, it was decided to have the report of the War Emer- gency Workers National Committee's conference on the "Food Per il" held at Swansea some time ago, and Mr. Thos. Roberts (N.U.R.), of Caerau, who was the delegate, was called to give his re- port; out of which two or three questions were asked and snswered. Next on the list was a report by Coun. J. Hughes, of Caerau, upon the 'conference of re- presentatives on public bodies (Labour) held at Cardiff on Whit-Tuesday. He gave a very good but short report with special emphasis upon the pensions question. Coun. J. Evans, of Nanty- ffvllon, supported Coun. Hughes and exposed the red-tapeism used in the administration of the Pensions Royal Warrant. He also read out the report of the Government auditor, who, after having been over the Maesteg accounts, con- demned the action of the Maesteg Committee as being too sympathetic to soldiers and sailors and their dependents, showing that they had over- stepped their mark in generosity and were liable to being surcharged. A very pardonabieoffence in the eyes of Labour. On being questioned regarding the rumour that they would be surcharged, Coun. Evans said he did not know whether there was anything in it or no, but he was of opinion that it would he a good thing for them (the committee) and the soldiers and sailors and their dependents if it. came off. The next business was a report by Coun. John Evans, Nantyffyloln, of the Housing Conference held some time ago at Cardiff, to which he was the delegate. The three reports were adopted as satisfactory and the report of Leeds Conference was held over until next Wednesday, owing to the lateness of the hour. It was decided to appoint ,a repre- sentative to the Local War Savings Committee. The secretary was appointed. The question of giving evidence before the Committee on Indus- trial Unrest was relegated to the E.C., who have since decided to offer to submit evidence to that committee. Maesteg Miner's Wife. A miner's wife in a letter to Mr. Hartshorn the other day made out such a case regarding the cost of living at the present time that Mr. Hartshorn invited her to give evidence before the Committee on Industrial Unrest, and she is to have a special invitation to give evidence. This only shows the assistance working women would be to the nation but for the sex barrier.

Tonyrefail Notes. Presentation Meeting. During the week a presentation meeting was. held at Tonyrefail, when Major E. Edwards, of Coe dEly, was presented by the local patrons,. with a sword of honour, on his ascendancy tall his present rank. It is rumoured locally that the propriety of the gift odes not coincide strictly with military etiquette. It is said that it is necessary to have won military distinction before receiving the- sword of honour. This does not in any way, even if true, dero- gate the gallant major, who cannot in any sense he responsible for any such breach by anyone who desires to honour him. Also it can hardly be expected that the civil promoters would have any knowledge of military etiquette and could only be guided blindly bytheir great love for the sword. The occasion also reflects somewhat of a paradox, and which, happily can be inter- preted, to most people, by the abnormal prevail- ing conditions, i.e., the faith of the representa- tive of both the established church and the Non- conformists in the power of the sword. At last a millennium has been realized and the triple al- liance of Conformists, Non-conformist, and the Military have a common cause in the worship of the God of War. Here they are united to drive out the devil, by the helpof Satan. For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword," Matt- 26, 52. A Boubtful Innovation. Changes are rapidly taking place owing to thÐ" war. Previously, it had been the custom .and rule at Coed Ely Colliery n). to prevent anyone collecting in or about the mines for any cause1 whatsoever. This rule and practice is undoubted- ly a. good one, and it is to be deplored that this custom and practice has been departed from, and a new innovation excercised for the express pur- pose of the presentation. Funeral of Industrial Hero. The funeral of the late Alfred Evans, of Prit- t chard-street, Tonyrefail, took place on Tuesday? June 26th. He met with a fatal accident at the' Coed My Colliery and leaves a wife and a large family to mourn his loss.

Oakdale Branch I. L. P. A very successful meeting was held in" the Ilhiw Syr Davydd School on Tuesday, June 19- Comrade G. Phillips presided. John Scurr, of London, delivered- a fine lecture on Socialism. In the course of his lecture he pointed out that the Socialists were out for a social revolution, and that the workers must organise themselves III industries to combat the Capitalist in the ca$S struggle..For, he pointed out, the Capitalists- were organising their forces industrially to orusb-, the workers. His advice, to the workers WOO to have a vigorous political organisation as well;. as an industrial. A lot of questions were and satisfactorily answered. Sale of literatur good, and two new members enrolled.

Merthyr Notes. I A Protest. I Merthyr Trades Council think the Workers' and Soldiers' Council Provisional Committee should have arranged the district conference for East Wales and the environs of Bristol at Mer- thyr and not Cardiff as advertised, and are protesting against this decision. Dowlais Woman Remanded Again. I Elizabeth Davies, Russell-street, Dowlais, the woman charged with having performed an ille- gal operation upon Margaret Abraham, a sol- dier's widow, now in the Merthyr Infirmary, was again remanded for a, week on oail at the Merthyr Police-court on Friday. Mr. J. A. Wilson (chief constable) said the woman Abra- ham would be fit to appear to-day (Friday). Mr. J. W. Lewis was defendant's solicitor. Back to the Land. Secondary schoolboys at Merthyr are to help in haymaking during the coming harvest. Subaltern a Prisoner. Second-lieutenant Edgar Charles noteon, Roval Warwickis, son-in-law of Mr. William Jones, inspector of public works to the Merthyr Corporation, and Mrs. Jones, Vulcan House, Merthyr, officially reported killed, now trans- pires to be alive. His wife (instructress of phy- sical drill at the Cyfarthfa Secondary and the Intermediate Schools, Merthyr) received on Sun- day the following message from him from Ger- many, dated May 13: Am a prisoner of war with a, broken leg, but am pulling along ifne. Everything possibl-e is being done for me. Could not be better treated." Second-lieutenant Hob- son enlisted in September, 1914, as a private in the Royal Warwicks, and-received his commission for distinguished conduct. In civil life he was a dentist at Birmingham. Theatre and War. Merthyr Assessment Committee on Saturday reduced the assessment values of the Theatre Royal, Merthyr, from £ 620 gross and £ 496 ratable to £ 375 gross and -6300 ratable. Mr. W. W. Meredith, solicitor, for appellants (the lessees), said that because of the restriction of travelling facilities by rail "tock companies were appearing on the shying terms" ba.sis, and in consequence the annual rental of the theatre had been reduced from x650 to £ 400. The committee were informed that M0 notices of appeal for reductions in the assessments of Jioensed houses in the area had been received. It was decided to hold a special meeting next week to consider all the cases Cwmtaff Pest. I Trees, hedges, and bushes in Cwmtaff, near Merthyr, affected by the caterpillar plague are fast being rid of the pest. Opinions as to the cause are varied. One assumption is that the change has been wronght by file rains prevalent in the, locality during the past few days. Another theory is that the grubs, now accepted as of the ermine moth species, have developed into winsred insects and flown away. The nurserv plantation of trees belonging to the Cardiff Corporation is apparently in no danger, for further investigations prove that pine trees are immune from attack. Merthyr TydfH Teachers' Association (N.U.T.) I The ordinary general meeting of this Associa- tion was held on Friday last at Abermorlais Boy's School. In the unavoidable absence of the President (Mr. D. Price, Boys' School, Troedy- rhiw) Mr. W. Harris presided over a splendid attendance. The minutes of the previous general meeting and executive meetings were read and adopted. Miss Simons (Abermorlais Girls) and Mr. R. Davies (Gellyfaelog Boys') were appoint- ed to represent the Association at Cardiff at a conference convened by the Workers' Educa- tional Association on "Edncational Re-construc- tion." Mr. R. G. Price (Dowlais Boys') is the appointed representative of the Association at a National Educational Council of Wales Conven- tion to be held at Llandrindod Wells. The salary question was the vital theme of the meeting. Very important communications were read from Hamilton House by the Secretary (Mr. J. Price) on the supplementary grants showing the amount the Merthyr Education Authority would derive, and suggesting to the Association that immediate action should be taken. It was unanimously decided that the Secretary should forward a letter to the L.E.A. making an application for a revision of the scale of salaries and also requesting a conference with the repre- sentatives of the Association to discuss the posi- tion. A strong salaries committee was appointed at the meetinsr to earn- on the work. Hero Honoured. M. u I I The lVlerthyr Town Llerk told the Corporation on Tuesday night that the Carnegie Hero Fund Trustees had placed the name of Evan Joseph Evans, of Merthyr, on their Roll of Heroes in recognition of his heroism of February 12th last, to grant to his widow a Memorial Certificate with an allowance of £1 a week. Mr. R. J. Rees, the coroner, has received the certificate for presentation to the widow. Evans met his death through pluckilv stop- ping a, runaway horse in Trevethick-street. which had he not jumped in the cart and checked it must have killed several children playing in the roadway. Owing to his effort the horse was swerved, but as a result the cart over- turned and pinned Evans underneath occasion- ing injuries from which he died within the hour. A Law Library. I The Merthyr Town Council on Tuesday de- cided to co-operate with the Law Society to purchase the valuable law library of the late Mr. John Plews, the well known Welsh barrister, and to house it in the Town Holl. The Town Clerk in supporting the acceptance of the Law Society's offer said that two Recorders had pointed out to him that it was a duty of the Corporation to provide the law reports as well as the statutes. and had it not been for the kindness of local so licitors he would have been like the child of Israel, compelled to make bricks without straw. Bonus for Corporation Clerks. I Councillor Wm. Jones (Treharris) protested at the Merthyr Town Council on Tuesday against the allocation of an application for an increased war bonus on the part of the municipal clerks, on the ground that already a war bonus of 8s. per week had been granted to other employees, whereas the clerks, who were the most deserving received a maximum of 4s. per week. This re- ference to a committee would mean the waste of a month, and he moved that the application be dealt with at once. Councillor L. M. Jones seconded because he believed in treating all alike. Councillor Enoch Morrell also supported. Councillor D. W. Jones asked whether it was proposed that the bonus should be granted to certain officials who received emoluments from other sources. There was, for instance, the ques- tion of Tribunal and similar work. On receiving an assurance from the Town Cleric that they would not receive the bonus, since they had not signed the petition, he also supported as did Councillor Owen. Councillor Wm. Jones protested against the distinction being made against officials doing ,such work as Tribunal work, but on the Town I Clerk pointing out that they were excluded on the last application for the bonus, and that they had not had any bonus, nor would they have; he withdrew his objection. It was decided to grant a bonus of 8s. to all clerks over 21, and 5s. to all under, as from June 1st. Water Supply to Newport. I Merthyr Town Council on Tuesday agreed to engage counsel to advise them on the promotion of a Bill to revise the terms upon which the corporation supplies outside authorities with water. It has been decided to supply Newport on a sca.le which varies from 7d, per 1,000 gallons in 1921 to 4d. in 1938 and after, the daily supply increasing between those years from half a mil- lion to four million allon. Our Band. I livery time out our municipal band improves in tone and finish of execution. The conversion of the band from a brass band pure and simple, iDO a proper military band by the introduction of reed instruments, has given roundness and tonal polish to the whole equipment, and Mr. Laverock and his men are to be congratulated on their rapid advance as public performers. A few more times out with the increasing confidence it will bring in public performance, and they" will be able to meet almost anything in Wales. Girl Drowns Herself in Goitre Pond. I "Suicide whilst of unsound mind" was the verdict returned at an inquest upon Elizabeth Cotter (20), of 15 LI wv fen-street, Brecon-road, who was found drowned at the Goitre Pond.

Mid-Rhondda Notes. I Passive, Things are very quiet in both the industrial and political world just at present in Mid- Rhondda. The method the military adopts to take the men from the collieries proves quite successful in avoiding any trouble. The small number which is called up at a time is not suffi- cient to cause any sensation, and the majority of the underground workers are quite indifferent as to who will be taken next. They entirely fail to realise the danger which is hanging over their heads. The Capitalist emissaries are very busy preparing the public's mind for another attack on the miners, by talking about the large num- ber of single men of military age that are work- ing in the collieries. Rhondda Socialist Society. I A very interesting meeting was held on Sun- day night, in which Comrade Mainwaring de- livered another of his series of lectures on the Chartist movement. This lecture dealt with the period which covered the beginning of the 19th Century which was characterized with great activity in the Labour world; the forming of trade unions and political actions, the worker's struggle for a press of his own. A most interesting and instructive account was given of the obstacles which the capitalist's gov- ernment of the time had to prevent the people to publish their own papers. How they instituted a stamp duty, confiscated the press, imprisoned the leaders, and every other possible means to feep the workers down. In listening to the lec- tures one can hardly fail to see that the same oppressive elements are busy at work in these days.

The Electric Theatre. "The Deserter." the Triangle drama that headed the excellent Electric programme for the first half of this week, was one of those few stories that have an adventurous grip, and a strong heart interest worked in without weaken- ing either. The story of the coward who proved an hero got hold of me hard. Sons of our Em- pire certainly bore out its reputation as the best of the official films, and there was a more than ever laughable Triangle, "The two o'clock Train. An even better programme is running during these last three days of the week, headed with' a Fox problem-play Should a Mother Tell," that co ntains none of the maudlin sentimentality of the usual problem play; but is a live story with a very real message, as well as a strong dramatic appeal. There is, too, a Tale from the Decameron," a sweet thing from that clas- sic work of the Queen of Navarre. The Triangle Comedy "She Loved a Sailor" is another rol- licking, roaring laughter raiser. Next week is to be something of a Red Letter week because in addition to unusually powerful top-liners and supporting films, it is to see the first instalments of the two latest and greatest serials put out by those premier feuilleton pro- ducers Pat-he and the Transatlantic. The latter in particular will be welcome for it brings back Lucille Love and Hugo Loubique. But to take them in their order..From Monday Maternal Right," a much commented upon Gaumont ii"'e- rpeler, is heading, and there is a big new Triangle comedy, Perils of the Park," with the %last instalment of "Sons of Our Empire, and the Pathe serial "The Shielding Shadow," one of those eerie mysteries that Pathe specialise in. Grace Darmond and Ralph Kellard are play- ing the leading roles, and that says much. "The Plunderer," the, Fox drama that tops from Thursday is another of those unique pictures that draw big houses. "The feathered nest" is the Triangle, and the new Trans-Atlantic serial will be filmed, "The Purple Domino." As I have said, it is a re-introduction to old favour- its, and I am looking forward to big houses whilst it runs. PLAYGOER. I

Neath Notes. I Disappointing. I I The much advertised demonstration against Industrial Conscription was duly held, and a good sized crowd attended, but the fare with which they were regaled from the platform was meagre and scanty in the extreme and to say the least, disappointing. The remarks from the platform of those who were billed as prominent local trandes unionists made it perfectly clear to any discerning mind why the local Oligarchy that maladminister the town has so cheaply de- nied the use of the public halls, the picture palaces and the market-place for free expressions of opinion and thought. An eminent sage has said, Peoples and communities get the Govern- ment they deserve." And with so little of the fighting spriit shown by prominent trade union- ists as evinced at the Demonstration on Satur- day, it seems that the workers of this benighted burgh have got what they want in the shape of the present Town Council. Winstone's address was tolerable, but as he had been told beforehand to be careful, it was all that could be expected from him. The sooner prominent and other trades unionists realise that timidity has no place in the workers movement, and they develop a consciousness based on the class struggle the better it will be; but maybe that is too much to be hoped for, and the only alternative is the in- fusion of new blood entirely free from fossilised microbes. Socialist Meeting. I I The Socialist Society held their second meet- ing on the Common on Sunday evening, and al- though our advertised speager, our blind com- rade Morgan, of Swansea, failed to turn up, we had a substitute in the, shape of Comrade Mort of the Briton Ferry I.L.P. Although climatic conditions were unfavourable and a counter at- traction in the shape of a big gun speaking for the Briton Ferry I.L.P. not two miles away, a decent crowd gathered which seemed keeni interested and sympathetic. Comrade Mainwar- ing acted as chairman. Expansion. on .I I Ere these notes will appear in print the ancient ceremony of the, Proclamation of the Eistedfod and the Gorsedd will have taken place in the town, the circle having already been fixed up at the Victoria Gardens. No doubt the local bourgepisise will seize the opportunity to spread themselves all they can.

Pontypridd Notes. I I.L.P. Activities. 1 I Tne local 1.11.: continue to hold successiui meetings at the High street Hall. Miss Pal- lister and George Dolling were the respective speakers of the second and third Sunday even- iings in June. On Sunday evening last there was a good attendance, when with Comrade Cox in the chair, County Councillor Sid Jones (Black- wood) lectured on" Workers and the War." Sid was great and no mistake. Comrade Owen Hughes has been over at Maesteg leeturiiig for the I.L.P., the movement is going well there. q Pioneers are easily disposed of, and the en- thusiasm of Aneurin Jones is contagious. Study Circle. The Pontypridd C.L.C. class nas formed a study circle and meet every Monday evening at] 7.30 at the I.L.P. Hall. Comrade Hughes opened with a lecture on Darwinism or Evolution. Among those taking part in the discussion w.?7? Comrades Rees Williams, Cook, Styles and Cham- bers (of Merthyr). Last Monday evening Com- rade Williams spoke on "Valne Price and Profit." The Social Side. I d -1 n At a committee meeting or tne rtnonooa C.L.C. classes at Porth on Saturday evenino, June 16th, preliminary arrangements were made for a picnic at Llanwonno on Sunday, July 15th, at 3 o'clock, of the classes in the different dis- tricts. If Jupiter Pluvius be favourable a good attendance is anticipated, tea being provided at a reasonable ifgure. V

Rhymney Valley Notes. 1 Glamorgan County Council's Set Against Larbour- j The position of the Brithdir, Tirphil, and Pont- lottyn ward of the above council is assuming, rather a ridiculous state of affairs. Alderman Williams, of Pontlottyn, has held a series of meetings in the division on behalf 0 J the County Council to receive nomination. Three months previous there were only two candidates* viz., Councillor H. Brown and Councillor W- Hammonds, both Labour members of the Gelh- gaer U.D.C. The County Council refused to co- opt either one, then adjourned it for three months at the recently convened meetings Brithdir held for the purpose of receiving nolur nations. The Chairman, Alderman Willia-rns, I.it reply to questions raised at a. Brithdir meeting stated he could not guarantee that this man who got the highest votes would be co-opted by the County Council and quoted a case in point. The following were nominated -Councillor ». Brown, Councillor W. Hammonds, Rev.  West, Councillor B. Hughes. The position 0 councillors according to their own statements are: H. Brown, nominee of the Trades and Lar bour Council; W. Hammonds, holds no political views, but claims to represent Labour; Rev. ff., West, he is going to fight to the end as a Liberal* Result of show of hands at meetings Councils Hammonds, 148; Councillor Brown, 43; Rev. &■ West, 41; Councillor B. Hughes, 21. Alderman Williams stated that as far as be- was concerned Dr. Martin (the late member) w'a& regarded as a liberal. The Trades and Labour Council has held all along that the truce shouls be observed and that the seat was Labour. This the opposition has denied, but this week J hV'e seen Dr. Martin's voting card and address, which is as follows: "Ladies and Gentlemen to the elevation of Councillor Williams to the Alderinanic bench you are called upen to elect a new representative. At the request of several public meetings I have decided to consent to b0' nominated and have pleasure in offering my ser, vices as the Labour candidate. My views on all public matters are progressive and democratic' The extension of the benefits of free, educatIon, a pure and ample water supply and popular Government will have my strong support. thoroughly believe in Government of the people by the people and for the people. My training as a medical man gives me a special knowledge of the sanitation and requirements of the divi- sion and should prove beneficial to your interests- etc. Soliciting your hearty support and voteG to carry the Labour and progressive cause to vietory.-E. W. Martin, Brithdir, March 3lsfr 1910.1" I may add Dr..Martin was a member Of rtho I.I.P. What further evidence is necessary- The County Council on Thursday, June 21st, postponed the question for another three months. A New Guardian. .r '1 t mr. rnomas jfugh, Aberbargoed, librarian, 11-1" been appointed guardian on the Bedwelltv Boar for Aoerbargoed and Pen gam Ward. Nominee as Organiser. "f Hf,. TIT Tn -II I t 1"1 1 rtf mi. H. L.. rerry or AoerDargoea, is OIl v two nomininees as organisers for the National Union of worked. Political organiser: 1Vm. Hari-is has been appointed by the Welsh Housing Association to. give evidence before the" U n:rest Commission with reference to the Housing Problem. Illegal Rent Raising. There are numerous instances of illegal ieJij raising in Rhymney Valley. Will those aft'ec:-)d communicate with the Trades Council or W,n.. Harris immediately. A New" Union." There is a movement on foot to form a cGlT.' bined association of the allotment holders in the valley.