The Amman Valley Chronicle and East Carmarthen News

AMMANFORD. You will want to send your Photograph to your friends at Christmas. The best work is always obtainable at A. Bryant's Studio, 8, College Street, Ammanford. Have them taken early and avoid the rush. The fortnightly Mart was held at Tirydail' on Wednesday, and in spite.of the inclemency -of the weather, there was a good attendance of buyers. Mr. W. N. Jones, J.P., Dyffryn, was the auctioneer. The following were sold: 19 cattle and 149 sheep. Battalion Sergt.-Major D. L. Thomas, a ,-C"Tl of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Thomas, of 99, College Street, has now received his discharge from the Army. Sergt.-Major Thomas was attached to the R.F .A., and had seen about 3r, years' service in France. Gwyneth Parry, Tycroes, gained the highest number of marks in the pianoforte examination of the London College of Music held last week at the Ammanford Centre, and has won the local prize of the College. Gertie Sheriff, Margaret Street, with only one mark behind, was second. Both passed with honours. They are pupils of Mr. Gwilym R. ^Jones. At the London College of Music examina- tion, held at the Y.M.C.A., Ammanford, on Thursday last, the 12th inst., Lily A. Lloyd, of 3, Margaret Street, was very successful in passing First Class in the Intermediate Section. She is a very promising pupil, this being the third examination in has been successful in th's year. Also, Phyllis Jones, of 31, Talbot Road, was very successful in passing First Class in the Elementary Section and Queenie Shepherd, First Class in the Primary Section. The above are pupils of Miss Ena Hughes, 79, College Street, Ammanford. 3rd A.M. William Andrew Williams, a son of Mr. David Williams, 40, Bettws Road, officiated on Sunday evening at Ebenezer Chapel during the first portion of the service in a very praifeworthy manner. Air Mechanic Williams was at one time a pupil at the Llandilo County School, and afterwards he passed into Cardiff University College. He is now attached to the R.A.F., and has passed an examination in wireless telegraphy. A brother of Air Mechanic Williams-Mr. Trevor Stanley Williams, who was formerly a pupil at the Amman Valley County School, is a student at Aberystwyth University Col- lege. Priv. D. J. Willjams, another brother, has served in France since August, 1916. He is attached to the R.A.M.C. After having served in the Army for over I four years, Driver Alcwyn Williams, a son 01 Mr. and Mrs. Williams, of the Boot Stores, 'College Street, has returned home, l having been placed in the Reserve. Driver Williams has taken part in a number of the most important engagements on the Western Front, taking part in the great Battle of the Somme, and was with the party which cap- tured Bapaume. Driver Williams was also present in the heavy fighting which took place at Cambrai, and was latterly serving at Mons. A pathetic chord is struck by stating that out of eleven pals who were in training together in the 56th Division Ammunition Column, and who went out to France together, only two survivors remain, and it is most remarkable -that they are two brothers-Driver Alcwya WiiMams and Driver Willie Williams. Driver Williams looks well and happy. Driver Willie Williams is now in France. We wel- come the hero. An excellent reception concert was held at the Wesleyan Chapel, Tirydail, on Tuesday evening to welcome home Priv. Myrddin 'Williams, M.M., a report of whom has ap- peared Jll- a previous issue. The chairman -was the Rev.- Meirion Williams (minister). The following programme was contributed:— Solo, Miss Blodwen Thomas; recitation, Miss Rachel Griffiths; solo, Miss Maggie Jones, Tirydail; solos, Misses Pugh, Tirydail; reci- tation, Miss G. Hayes, Tirydail; solo, Mr. Jack Rees, Pantyffynnon; solo, Mr. Tom Williams, Ammanford; solo, Mr. Rees Isaac, Tirydail. The usual gift was suitably pre- sented by Mrs. Hayes, of Tirydail, and Priv. -v* Williams responded. Penillion which had been composed for the occasion were also read. Mr. Rees Isaac and Mr. Joseph Griffiths made a few appropriate remarks. The duties of organist were ably performed by Mr Trevor Jenkins, A.L.C.M., Ammanford. The sinzing of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau brought a very enjoyable evening to a close. Sergt. L. Br«okyn, M.M., whose home is at 14, Llandebie Road, i6 now discharged from the Army. He joined up in August, 1914, and was sent out to Gallipoli, where he saw heavy fighting. During the period of h;s service in Gallipoli, Sergt. Brookyn con- tracted dysentery, and was sent back to this country and admitted into hospital. After recuperating, he was drafted out to France, where he took part in most of the important' encounters. Sergt., Brookyn has been gassed several times, and has sustained wounds on more than one occasion. During* some severe engagements, the horses were killed at the time when the gallant sergeant was mounted, and he had a miraculous escape from receiv- ing fatal wounds. For great bravery which he displayed at the end of last year, Sergt. Brookyn was awarded the Military Medal. In pre-war days Serqt. Brookyn was an excellent footballer, and his many friends are hopeful that he will again be able to figure in football circles. We extend our welcome to another of our gallant boys who defended our homes, congratulate Sergt. Brookyn on winning the Military Medal. On Friday evening, at the Palace Theatre, a crowded meeting was held in support of the candidature of Mr. J. Towyn Jones, the -Coalition candidate. The chair was occupied by Lieut.-Col. W. N. Jones, Dyffryn, and the meeting was addressed by Mr. Mervyn Peel, Llangadock, and the Rev. L. Berian James, B.A., Penygroes. The Chairman moved a vote of confidence in Mr. Towyn Jones, which was carried. There was con- siderable hooting indulged in during the meet- ing, and interruptions were of frequent occur- rence. The audience was soon converted into paities who indulged in arguments after the meeting was closed, and there was con- siderable disturbance among a section of the audience when questions were not entertained. After the meeting was over, the, groups of people resumed their discussions outside, and the feeling amongst a number of groups assumed a very threatening aspect. Follow- ing this, the Labour supporters held a meet- ing on the Square, which was addressed by Mr. James Griffiths, Mr. D. Davies, Mr. T. Dafen Williams, and Mr. F. Davies. Hun- dreds of people assembled together, and inter- ruptions and disturbances were somewhat pro- minent. In the recent ballot to elect a treasurer for the Anthracite District, in succession to the late Mr. J. D. Morgan, a very peculiar example of the method by means of which appointments are made is disclosed. The ballot was by single transferable vote, and there were seven positions or grades, as there an equal number of applicants for the post. Although Mr. John Harries (Irlwyn) secured the greatest number of votes in four positions and in the agreegate, still, the appointment goes to another candidate. The following explains the unsatisfactory method which was adopted:—Mr. John Harries: Position No. I, 2,129 votes; No. 2, 2,257; No. 3, 2 415 No. 4, 2,872; No. 5, 3,178; No. 6, 4,687; total, 17,538. Mr. W. M. Davies: No 1, 731; No. 2, 2,008; No. 3, 2,365- No.4, 2,698; No. 5, 3,751; No. 6, 5,235; total, 16,,780. It will be seen from the above that Mr. John Harries secured a substantial majo- rity for the first four >ositions. The voting clearly illustrates that Mr. Davies was in the majority only in the two lower pcsiuons, thus proving, in our option, that the miners were in favour of Mr. Harries being appointed to the post. It pi.oSi's our comprehension whv such an unsatisfactory system is allowed to bo in force. The marriage took place yesterday (Wed- nesday), at Henrietta Street Welsh Congre- gational Church, Swansea, of Mr. Wm. Morgan Davies, son Mr. n:d Mrs. Rets Davies, Hopkinstown, orga/iist of the lalbot Road Engl Ish Cor,,gre,,ation;,l Church, and Miss M. K. Evans, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Gorsfeicn Farm, Manordilo, organist of Herman Congregational Church, and soprano vocalist of much repute. The bride was given away by her father, and was her- self attended by Miss M. L. Thomas, College Street, and Miss M. M. Davies (sister of the bridegroom). The groomsman was Mr. D. E Harris, Co-operative Stores, Mr. Rees Davies, the bridegroom's father, and Mr. Johnnie Waters, Margaret Street, a personal friend of the bridegroom, being also present at the ceremony. The officiating minister was Rev. D. Bowen, Hermon, assisted by the P ev. D. E. Harris, Ammanford. 1 he wed- dmg breakfast was partaken of at Thomas' Cafe, High Street. The various toasts were spoken to in felicitous terms by Messrs. D. E. arris anA J. J. Waters and the officiating m msers. The honeymoon will be spent at Cardiff and other places. The many friends of the bnde and bridegroom wish them every joy and happiness. The Rev. David Griffiths, chaplain to the blind, lectured on behalf of St. Dunstan' s at Ebenezer Chapel on Wednesday evening of last week. Mr. W. Cathan Davies, the pre- sident of the Free Church Council, made an admirable chairman. For close upon two hours the lecturer, who is-himself blind since he was s' x years of age through an attack of typhoid, held the undivided attention of the audience. His description of the blind and the marvellous work which is being done in their behalf, and especially the interest taken in sailors and soldiers blinded in the war, was most graphic, and his humour was irresistible. His appeal for our assistance in such a good cause was made with such power that it was generally felt that a visit from Mr. Griffiths must be arranged on a Sunday some time during the coming year, when he will be given an opportunity to preach morning and evening at two of our largest chapels: The Free Church Council, under whose auspices Mr. Griffiths visited the place, is developing its work along right lines, and the churches must respond generously when philanthropic appeals of this nature are being made. The Council would desire to most cordially acknow- ledge the splendid services rendered by the young people of our churches in the selling of tickets for the lecture. At the close, Mr. D. Hughes, the West Wales representative of the Institute, spoke a few words in Welsh.

I BETTWS. The Landis Record," of Saskatchewan, Canada, pays a striking tribute to the memory l of the late Mrs. Winnie Williams, wife of the Rev. Trevor J. Williams, B.A., B.D., and daughter of Mr. Morgan Morgan, M.E., Cwmllynfell, in the following -terms:—" To say that the country was stunned is but a mild statement. The majority had not even heard of her illness, and many were unable to intelli- gently perform their duties for the remainder of the day. The elements seemed in accord with the feelings of a grief-stricken people, hr aU day long the sun refused to shine, and even the heavens wept. It was Washington Irving who said, There is a healthful h'ard- ness about real dignity that never dreads con- tact and communion with others, however humble.' This dignity and her great love for humanity is the secret of this noble life's suc- cess, for success it was m?s?rsd by CVCiy standard of unselfishness. ??illiams had a smite and ? kind or cheery wdid; "? der all circumstances, for old or young, rich ?t poor, white or coloured. Her life was crowded full af activity-she was ever seek- ing an opportunity to minister to the needs of others. A great and noble spirit, in a frail tenement, she was utterly unconscious of any limit to physical strength, when suddenly that insidious disease marked her delicate organism for its victim, and snapped the tender link that held her to earth, home and friends, and the great spirit to its flight to the Heavenly Father Who had need of her m a larger sphere. She leaves with us the influence of a noble and beautiful life that has left its impress upon the community." Mrs. Williams was a niece of the late Colonel D. Morris and the Rev. W. Richard, Brynffin.

I BRYNAMMAN. I The election passed off here in a most peaceful manner, although the bitternese of the parties forced itself to the surface in many and various ways during the evening. The poll was at no time of the day rushed. The voters recorded their marks as if their turns to visit the poll had been pre-arranged. Every- thing went off peacefully and smoothly as usual. News is coming to hand respecting our pri- soners of war. Priv. Willie Thomas has arrived home Arthur Lowe is at Newcastle- on-Tyne recuperating; and Lieut. D. Jones, Brynamman Road, is on the way home. Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Williams, Ardwyn, have been notified that their son, Priv. Herbert Williams, who was an organist in London, is also proceeding homewards. The regrettable news has reached Mr. and Mrs. Evan Evans, Cwmteg Lane, after con- ducting prolonged and exhaustive inquiries, that their son, Priv. Tom Evans, has been killed in action. Priv. Evans had been miss- ing since April 10th. He was 30 years of age, and had been wounded once. This makes the thirty-fourth hero of the Brynamman 260 to fall in the awful fray.

I CWMAMMAN. I Lieut. Aneurin Rees, F.R.C.O., A.R.C.M., the brilliant Amman Valley musician, has been selected as chief adjudi- cator at a huge eisteddfod to be held in France by the Welsh troops on Boxing Day. The following pupils of Mr. Idris Morgan, Garnant, passed successfully in piano playing at the London College of Music Examination in December:—Primary: Phyllis Jones. Ele- mentary: A. Claudia Davies. Intermediate: Trevor Williams and Monica Smith. Senior: D. John MiJhael. The election passed vfcty quietly at Glan- amman on Saturday. n and women went to the respective booths io record their votes without being molested fcfy either party. We hope it will be likewise cm the occasion of the Urban District Council elect 'on No doubt the men followed the exainple of the fair sex. It is with regret we have to record the death of Mr. Morgan Morgan, Norfolk House, Glanamman, who died quite suddenly on Saturday evening within a few hours of record- ing his vote at the booth. He was in his usual health and in the best of spirits through- out the day, but in the evening had an attack of apoplexy and died within three hours. An exceptionally good reception was accorded to our gallant sqldier, Priv. Edward J. Morris, better known as Ned Morris," of Ceidrym Road, Garnant, at a meeting which was held at Stepney Hall, Garnant, on Thursday evening last. In the absence of the appointed chairman, Mr. Lewis Beynon, the mills euperintendent at Glanamman Tin Works-where Priv. Morris was employed previous to rejoining, he being an old soldier who had served in the South African War- the chair was filled in an efficient manner by Mr. T. H. Jones, checkweigher at the G lan- amman Works. Mr. Gunning, an old com- rad e of Priv. Morris in the South African War, presented the hero with the sum of money collected in the meeting and also with the cheque which is given by the Soldiers' and Sailors' Committee to every member of His Majesty's Forces from the district. Priv. Morris has been a prisoner of war in Germany for four years and one month, and in thanking the promoters and the audience for their kind welcome on his return, dwelt on the severity of treatment meted out to our men not only by the Hun authorities, but even by the working civilians, and said that but for the parcels they receive the Old COUP^" nialn-y thousands would have died of starvation. A good programme was gone through, con- tributed by the following:—Pianoforte solo, Master D. H. Thomas, A.L.C.M., who played exceedingly well. We should like to mention here that this young artiste had passed an examination entitling him to the degree of A.L.C.M. on the day preceding the con- cert, at the age of II years. Songs, Victor Davies, Thora Francis, Elvira Williams, Blodwen Rees, Jenny Evans, and Lizzie James; penillion singing, Berach Bach; reci- tations, Hannah Davies, R. M. Jones, and Miriam Evans; whistling solo, Deveraux Morgan, who was vociferously applauded. This young artiste is the son of our ever- ready and talented musician, Mr. John Morgan, A.L.C.M., who tutored D. H. Thomas, who is the second to have won this distinction under Mr. Morgan' s tuition during the last few months. The other young genius is Master Griff Jones, Wern Cottage, Gar- nant, who won the distinction some weeks ago before reaching his twelfth year. We congratulate Mr. John Morgan on his success in bringing up such geniuses in our midst.

LLANDEBIE. The polling on Saturday passed off very quietly at Llandebie, but it is said that wagering is very strong amongst the followers of both candidates. We did not have the pleasure of seeing or hearing the Labour candidate at all, but simply had to be content with his views as preached by the speakers who supported him. It would be well if our Parish Councillors were to take a walk up the path leading to the colliery. They can be assured before they start that when they return their wives waI tell them to clean their own boots and clothing. There are some members who travel that way every day, and we think they ought to take the matter up, seeing that they repre- sent Labour, and this path is practically for the working men. This election has shewn up many a person in the village, inasmuch not very long ago they were extreme Conservatives, but now they have crossed the floor and are extreme Labour. We do not blame them if they are true to their convictions; but why not have the pluck to return the letters received by them in con- nection with the Unionist meeting that was called, and prove for themselves that they had been convicted in support of Labour? Many of our soldiers have recently returned to work in the mines, and one and 'all are very glad to see them back amongst us once again but it is to be hoped that, should need be, they will be shewn a little more sympathy for services rendered than was done w hen the ratepayers were asked to support those of our gallant men who were in arrears with their rates. There is a vast difference between boasting of what one has done to help them by going around to beg and not put a hand in one's own pocket. It's like the old saying, You bring or give the food, and I'll hand it over."

LLANDILO. I A grand concert under the auspices of the Methodist Chapel will be held at the Drill Hall on Christmas night, when artistes of renown will take part. Corp!. Gomer Benjamin Thomas, of the R.W.F., Transport Section, has been awarded th Military Medal. Prior to joining up, he was a clerk at Lloyds Bank, Liandilo. His home is at Gwaun-cae-gurwen. Priv. Martin Lloyd, of the R.W.F., was killed in action in France last August. He was a son of Mrs. Lloyd, late -of Dynevor Farm, Llandilo. Prior to joining up, deceased was employed on farm work at Mansaint, Pontyeates. The Llandilo Bridge Auction Mart was held on Monday last. There were 72 fat cattle and 228 fat sheep, which were sold at controlled prices. Twenty-five pigs were sold at prices ranging from 24s. to 81s. The graders were Mr. James Hobbs, the Home Farm, Golden Grove; Mr. Jonathan Jones, butcher, Ammanford and Mr. T. L. Harries, auctioneer, Llandilo. The auctioneers were Messrs. J. Howell Thomas and Son, auc- tioneers, Carmarthen. Priv. William Walters, of the 18th Welsh, has returned home after being a prisoner of war in Essen, Rhineland, for the last nine months, during which period he was employed as a collier. He was dependent entirely upon parcels received from England for his food, I nor navmg any from his captors. His pay for h:s work was IOd. per day. Before joinjng up in 1914 he was a collier at Pontyeates. Ho IS the son of Mr. John Walters, 2, John's Villas, Greenfield Place, and is 24 years of age. A grand whist drive was held at the County School on Friday evening last in aid of the Soldiers' and Sailors Welcome Fund. There were over eighty present, and the event was a thorough success. The following were the prize-winners:—Ladies: 1st, Miss Tanner, Post Office; 2nd, Mrs. Morgan, White Horse Hotel; consolation, Mrs. Hugh Williams. Gentlemen: 1st, Rev. W. Arthur Jones (curate); 2nd, Mr. Daley, Castle Hotel; consolation, Mr. John Stephens, London House. The M.C. was Mr. Tom Davies, B.A., County School; and the secretary, Mr. T. W. Richards, Capital and Counties Bank. Second-Lieut. (Acting Captain) R. F. Williams, 14th Batt. Welsh Regiment, has been awarded the Military Cross. The official report of his achievement reads as follows:— Shortly after the attack had started, all of the other officers of his Company were hit. He at once took command, and re-organised the line under very heavy machine-gun fire. His initiative and complete disregard of danger were conspicuous, and he rendered particularly valuable service at a critical moment, and his example greatly inspired the men." Lieut. Williams is a son of the late Mr. Griffith Williams, auctioneer, King's Head Hotel, Llandilo, and brother of Mrs. Hughes, of the Red House, Llandilo.

PENYGROES. Nine Musical Successes.—At the recent examination in pianoforte playing, held under the auspices of the London College of Music at Ammanford, the following pupils of Miss May Davies, A.L.C.M., were successful:— Intermediate Section: Masters Gwilym Lewis, David Glanfor Rees, and Willie Jones. Elementary Section: Masters Tyssul Rees, Tom Thomas, Misses Hannah May Phillips, Lizzie Mary Morris, Bronwen Grey, Eileen Young. The examiner for the College was I Mr. Matthew Kingston, Mus. Bac. (Cantab).

The Chronicle will be sent by post to any address at 4/4 for the half-year, 01 8/8 per annum, payable in advance. EUAS AND EMANUEL. I CHRISTMAS and PEACE make a Happy Combination. I SHOPPING AT E. & E.'s ensures Satisfaction. I I If- li E- & Specialise in Successful E. & E. Specialise in Successful 1 Gif ts. E. & E.'s Party Frocks arouse 1^/ ? enthusisam. y??? ? E. & E. have a Wonderful Collection of Voile, Silk, Satin, Muslin and I>ac Frocks. I [H? E. & E. have a lovely range of  Fancy Aprons, suitable for flpP Drawing Room and Kitchen. E. & E. are at your service to suggest I9 I appropriate presents. E. & E. have an excellent choice of Hand- 1 kerchiefs, Collars, Gloves, Hug-Me- j T!g!L:s, Sailers, Bootees, Matinee § 0' Coats, Overalls, Boys' ilats, Babies' | To avoid disappointment Bonnets, Silk and Satin Coats, &c. |j SHOP EARLY at ELIAS & EMANUEL'S, AMMANFORD. PALACE, Ammanford. Week commencing Dec. 23rd, 1918. Grand Holiday Attractions! Monday and Tuesday, 6-30 and 9. Wednesday 7-30. Thursday and Saturday, 6-30 and 9. Friday 7-30. Don't Miss CHARLIE CHAPLIN IN A DOG'S LIFE. ^JiillllllilliillllllllllllllllllllllllllilllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllUjllllllllllllllllllll i = SIOP EVANS! Siop gwerin a bonedd, EE A'i ffenestr yn orlawn a thlws; EE =§ A' r dynion yn Ilinyn diddiwedd = = » Yn dyfod o hyd at ei drws. =2 = FaDoyma mae cartref sirioldeb, = = Beth bynnag fo Myot = = Mae' r Chemist a gwen ar ei wyneb = = Tu arall y counter o hyd. = = Er cymaint y prinder sy'n ffynnu, = = Heb unpeth trwy' r cread yn hael; ê ê Mae tipyn o bopeth, er hynny, = Gan Evans y Chemist i'w gael. = EE Ceir ganddo ragorol gyfferiau = EE Ar gyfer yr Anwyd a'r Ffliw- êê. = Ei foddion ar hyd y blynyddau = = Sy' n cadw Rhydaman yn fyw. EE = I fyny mewn 'stafell fach eirian = = (Gwyr miloedd yn awr am y lie) = = Mae HERBERT G. EVANS, Optician, Yn gwella golygon y dre. = ê Yn rhinwedd ei addysg wyddonol, EE = A'i feddwl a'i lygad mor chwim, = EE Gall wybod ar unwaith pa spectol ê iE Sy'n ateb y llygad i'r dim. ê EE a = Ewch ato i fyny y grisiau, = Gofynwch am spectol yn chwai, = EE A gwelwch y lleiaf lythrennau EE = Mor eglur a strydoedd o dai. ■ = ê Ar gyfer pob eisiau ac anaf = = Ceir yma ar lawr ac uwchben EE = Gyflawnder o' r pethau rhagoraf EE = Am brisoedd rhesymol dros ben. EE IE HEN GWSMER. EE iiiillllllllillillllllllllllllllllllllllil'lllllllilllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllillllillllllllllllllirH t

Ammanford Urban Council. I A special meeting of the above Council was held at the Y.M.C.A. Institute on Tuesday, Mr. J. Evan Jones, J.P., in the chair. HOUSING SCHEME. The Chairman introduced Mr. Chappell, Local Government Board Inspector, who was present to explain the Housing Scheme. Mr. Chappell explained how there was a serious scarcity of houses in many parts of the country, and how the cost of materials had gone up. In some instances the population had increased, and there was a scarcity of houses. However, with regard to local needs, he was informed by a communication received from the Council that there was no urgent necessity for houses, and that private building had generally accommodated the needs of the place. The Local Government Board had arranged to assist Local Authorities to carry out their schemes. If there was no need at present, there might be in the future. The Lccal Government Board had organised that a visit should be made to all Local Authori- ties throughout the country. Building had practically been at a standstill owing to the war, and in all probability it would take sogie time to come back to a normal state. Prices of materials had also gone up; in some in- stances 100 per cent., and even 300 per cent. In addition, the rate of interest had increased from about per, cent. to 5A per cent. He personally did not think that prices would return to their old level. Assuming a Local Authority decided to erect a certain number of houses, the Local Government Board sug- gested that the Local Authority should obtain a loan locally, and the interest thereon would be about 5^ per cent. Under the scheme, the loan would be for 60 years for the erection of houses, and 80 years for the purchase of land. During the first seven years the Local Government Board would make an annual allowance of 75 per cent of the annual deficit to the Council, the remaining 25 per cent. to be found by the Council. The allowance would be made for seven years only, but if t'n t liability of the Council would -amount to more than a penny in the £ rate, the Local Government Board would contribute an addi- tional share of the deficit. However the Local Government Board were not prepared to reduce the deficit themselves to such an extent as to make it unnecessary for a penny rare to be made. The Local Authority would have to pay a certain sum per annum in reduction of the advance, and at the end of a certain number of years the amount would bf* repaid. For instance, in the case of a house being built for £400, after seven years a sum of ilO might be repaid, leaving £ 390 outstanding. The valuer would come along and fix the 'value at £330. The difference in the value would be £ 60. The Local Government Board would take responsibility ft), three-fourths of the difference, viz.. Y-45, and the Local Authority would have to Be responsible for £ 15, being the other one- fourth. The houses would have to be com- pleted within fourteen months from the date Df sanction, and the Local Authority would r\(, be able to dispose of them. If it could be proved that the Local Authority was not r.<> capable of meeting the liability, the Local Government Board would undertake in certain P-ses.to be liable for an additional share, but only to the extent as to leave a penny in the £ chargeable on the rates. The Local Govern- ment Board were desirour, of having better houses, which would be of a higher standard, with hot and cold water, &c. The houses would not be erected in greater numbers than twelve houses per acre. The Local Authori- ties would be given power to acquire land. and if it was proved that the price was reasonable, and the landlord refused to sell for any other reason except the unsuitability of the site, the Local Authority could submit an order embodying a clause of the Land Clauses Consolidation Act, and an advertise- ment would be inserted in the local Press and a notice to treat would be served upon the seller, and if he declined to treat, compulsory measures could be exercised, thereby com- pelling the seller to sell the land at a certain value. That procedure had only been exer- cised in three or four instances throughout the country. Mr. D. George said that in Ammanford, the present day, the number of houses needed was not under 50. The Clerk remarked that there was a diffi- culty in this area with regard to the return yielded in rentals. Persons would not be prepared to pay 5A per cent. interest when they would not receive even 4 £ per cent. in return. The conditions prevailing locally were pointed out to Mr. Chappell. Mr. Chappell said that the Local Authority would not be allowed to dispose of the houses. With regard to interest and re- payment, the Local Authority would have to pay 5}j per cent. as interest, and a sum of about 4s. 7d. on account of principal annually in reduction of the amount. If it could be proved to the Local Government Board that 7j per cent. of the loss was an inadequate pro- portion, the Board may assume responsibility for a greater proportion, but in no case would they reduce the charge on the rate of the Local Authority to less than I d. in the £ He (Mr. Chappell) could not guarantee that the Local Government Board would accept I responsibility for more than 75 per cent. of the loss. The Clerk said that the requirements of the Council were many. They had r. hand several matters, such as the joint. construction of Maerdy Bridge, and also a Joint Sewerage Scheme. The latter would cost about £ 40,000. All those things were necessary. Which was the most important for them to proceed with-a sewerage scheme, or to have more houses erected and go on with the housing scheme. Dr. Price expressed the opinion that the sewerage scheme appeared to be more neces- sary than for people to build more hou.^s. He also said that from 191 I to 1914 a total of 153 houses had been erected. Mr. Chappell said that under the Town Planning Act, Local Authorities were given powers to decide almost everything in connec- tion with the erection of houses. Tin Clerk r-Karked that the Small Dwell- ings Acquis:V:i Act was one of the best. It helped to 00 away with immorality, and bereRted the eountry in many ways. Several in that district were very anxious to adopt it. Mr. Chappell advised the Council to go into the mattei of housing carefully, and to report to the Local Government Board the result of their investigations.