1 4 / 1 j

“ Do unto others as ye would that they should do unto you.”

N . C . W . N e w sOFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE

liaitoital (ftouiuil of tSEom^n of j^outlj 3lfrtra Jlasioitalj! Uroueraa& ban ^uiii-Jlfrika

(Affiliated with the International Council of Women in 1913)

Editor: Mrs. A. B. Low, Gowanbrae, Banksia Rd., Rosebank, Cape.Phone 6-1082.

Registered at the General Post Office as a Newspaper.

VoL 12- MAY, 1948. No. 10.

CONTENTSPage

Headquarters Notes 2

President’s Letter 2

Welcome 4

Conference Im pressions............................. 7

Digest of Report of the Native Laws Com­mission ............................................... 7

Resume of Address by Dr. Foullois . . . 12

Save the Children Fund 14

Appeal to the Women of the World 15

Goodwill Week ......................................16

Branch News 1 7

HEADQUARTERS NOTESNEW HEADQUARTER’S OFFICIALS

National President: Mrs. E. E. M. Russell.1st Vice-President: Mrs. G. E. Terry.2nd Vice-President: Mrs. W. Reid.Organising Secretary: Mrs. J. Lerwick.Hon. Treasurer: Mrs. van der Merwe.Parliamentary Convener: Mrs. E. Brookes.Publicity Convener: Mrs. A. H. Allsopp.

Address: 79, Leinster Road, Pietermaritzburg.Names of New Office Bearers and Changes of Address:

Kimberley Branch Council: Hon. Sec., Mrs. C. P. Smith, 9, Rendlesham Road, Kimberley.

Kroonstad Branch Council: Hon. Sec., Mrs. V King, 59, van der Lingen Street, Wilgenhof, Kroonstad.

Ladismith (Cape) Outpost: Hon. Sec., Miss K. Blomeris.Rustenburg Branch Council: Joint Hon. Secs., Mrs. A. M. Murray,

Box 87; Mrs. H. Ritchken, Box 177.Upington Branch Council: Hon. Sec., Mrs. W. Murray, c /o Irrigation

Dept.Vereeniging Branch Council: Hon. Sec., Mrs. Joyce Harris, 51a, Rhodes

Avenue, Vereeniging.I.S.C. Cinema: Mrs. Eybers, 42, Lily Avenue, Northcliff, Johannesburg.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER1st May, 1948.

DEAR FELLOW-MEMBERS,Conference has come and gone, leaving us all refreshed and

stimulated, and with a realisation not so much of achievement as of real and substantial progress. As we are to have a special “ Conference ” News, I shall say nothing further at present of the work done. On behalf of the whole N.C.W., however, I must reiterate the very warm thanks accorded at our final meeting to the members of the Cape Town Branch for the excellence of their arrangements and for the thought and care bestowed on every detail which could increase efficiency or expedite business.

It was unfortunate that only two members of the new Board of Officers, Mrs. Lerwick and myself, were able to be present, but we shall not fail to give our colleagues a full account of all that took place, and in particular of the very cordial welcome we received on the assumption of our new duties. To me it was a great pleasure to meet the branch Presidents and delegates from all over the Union, and to learn something at first hand of their work and their problems. I thank them for the good wishes which they expressed on your behalf for my term of ofRce as National President, and say again, as I said at the final meeting of Conference, that should it be given to me to serve you one-half as well as Mrs. Spilhaus, to whose selfless and untiring labours a great expansion of N.C.W. work and influence is due, I shall be well content.

Yours sincerely,ELEANOR RUSSELL.

“//attd-em6n>/</ered foive/s >*t/ dear-Bt/TTS/E BATH cooked'

A WRECK!"

cleans thingsSHINy BRIGHT!quickly — safely /

A L E VER PRODUCT

WELCOMEMrs. Eleanor E. M. Russell, our newly elected National President,

was duly installed at the close of the Biennial Conference in Cape Town on Friday morning, 30th April. She created a most favourable impression on all the delegates and we take this early opportunity of welcoming her as our leader for the next four years. We know she will have few idle moments—but we know, too, that she will find the work interesting and absorbing.

As it is possible that many of our members may not have much knowledge of the prominent positions Mrs. Russell has held in the past, we give hereunder a short sketch of her career to-date.

Mrs. Eleanor E. M. Russell was born in England. Educated at Bedford High School and London University. Specialised in Mathematics. Taught in England. Part-time worker Christian Social Union Settlement, Hoxton.

Came to South Africa 1910 as Vice-Principal, Girls’ Collegiate School, Pietermaritzburg. Became Principal 1914. Retired on marriage 1926.

i i . 'Foundation member N.C.W. Branch Council, Pietermaritzburg.

President for many years local Girl Guide Association. Foundation member Natal Teachers’ Society and served at one time as local President.

Entered Pietermaritzburg City Council October, 1930, and now in 18th year of continuous service.

At different times was Chairman of Native Administration Com­mittee (9 years), Finance Committee (2 years), Deputy Mayor (1939-41), Mayor (1943-7).

Served on Natal Education Commission (1936) and on Government Committee of Enquiry into Kaffir Beer Profits (1945). Invited to be

member of Native Laws Enquiry Commission (1946) but was unable to accept.

Contested Pietermaritzburg seat in Provincial Council 1939 as Independent candidate. Unsuccessful.

During the war was Liaison Officer of the South African Women’s Auxiliary Services, No. 8 Command. Was member of local committee of the Governor General’s War Fund, and chairman of this Branch Organisation since 1943. Also Chairman of the local branch of the National War Memorial Health Foundation.

At present Chairman of Finance Committee, Pietermaritzburg City Council; member of Natal Municipal Association; representative on United Municipal Executive; member of National Health Council; member Natal University College Council; Government nominee, Voortrekker Museum Committee.

From the above, it will be evident to all that our National President is a woman of wide and broad experience, and the gifts which have made it possible for her to carry out the duties and responsibilities entailed in her scholastic and public work augur well for success in the responsible task she has now undertaken. We can therefore look forward to a period of further expansion and enhanced prestige under her leadership.

We take this opportunity of assuring Mrs. Russell of our cordial support and of our endeavours to assist her in every possible way to ensure the ends she has in view—the strengthening and enlarging of our Council, its ideals and objects, and of our entire confidence in her judgment and ability.

ON Y O U R W H E E L S MEANS PLEASURE ON YOUR T R I P

B E S A F E , B E S U R E , B E S E N S IB L E , W I T H

More people the world over ride on Goodyear tyres than on any other mak*.

A W o m e n ’ s D e p a r t m e n t

Life Assurance, Annuities, Mortage Loans, Educational policies for children, Fire and Burglary Insurance,

Personal Accident and Sickness Insurance—all these different ways and means of safeguarding the Home and providing for the security of dependants are are matters of particular importance to women.

These days, the business girl with an eye to the future realises that she, too, needs Insurance. The Women’s Dept, is there to meet this need. There are attractive saving plans for women and there are special policies that protect the girl-in-the-job as well as the profes­sional or business woman-on-her-own from the financial consequences of illness or accident.

All these matters can be discussed freely, fully, and in absolute confidence with the lady organiser of The Southern Women’s Insurance Department, at whose private office enquirers are welcome to call at any time.

Th e S o u th ern L i fe A s s o c ia t io n o f A f r i c a

Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Bloemfontein,

Pretoria, East London, Port Elizabeth and Kimberley.

CONFERENCE IMPRESSIONSAs a “ lay-member ” of the 18th Biennial Conference of the

National Council of Women a few impressions of “ a bird’s-eye-view ” might possibly be acceptable.

My first, and continually recurring, impression was of power. What potentialities for good were assembled in Hiddingh Hall! Obviously capable women were, for the most part, representing their respective organisations; women who, whatever their position in the world, had inherited or acquired—or both—a grasp of business matters, a leadership, and an understanding which made good equip­ment for the job for which they were elected. Such power, such energy, such enthusiasm, harnessed and directed harmoniously, must more and more make for the betterment of this world.

I was impressed, too, by the amount of technical knowledge repre­sented. Almost every speaker showed a keen knowledge of the subject under discussion, and when vague statements or mis-statements did occur, they were quickly spotted by other able women interested in the same subject.

Another impression was the friendliness shown; dare I say, especially from those up-country. The little name cards made intro­ductions easy, but the friendly spirit made things easier still. The seeds of peace and goodwill are surely sovn by friendly words and sincere enquiries, and a more prodigal sowing of such seed will make a richer harvest.

The enthusiasm, too, was an inspiration. I wonder if the seeming fact that about two out of every three of the speakers either came from “ ayont the Tweed ” , or had ancestors who did, accounts for some of them being so “ quick on the uptak’ ” , as well as for their being so understanding when the discussions concerned finance. All the world knows that the Scot, while often being the most generous of characters, has a very keen sense of money values.

There was a universal approbation of constructive suggestions, an obvious sympathy for the African representatives (who evidently prefer the use of the word “ Bantu” rather than “ A frican” ), and, on the last day of the Conference, a loving and enthusiastic appreciation of the masterly work of the President, and the untiring services of those who had carried the burden of the arrangements. One of the Members objected to being one of a people classed as “ intellectual w om en” , saying that she preferred to feel that they were interested and hard­working women. Looking down from my bird’s eye view, I feel that they are all that and more, and I am happy to have been privileged to associate with them on this occasion.

VIM.

DIGEST OF REPORT OF THE NATIVE LAWS COMMISSION 1946-48

Under the Chairmanship of Justice H. A. Fagan, K.C.I. Brief Historical Review

Pre-Union legislation is reviewed with its differences between the Provinces, but a practically free hand for the municipalities in their management of Native affairs. After Union in 1910 “ The Native Affairs Department pressed the view that the ultimate con­trolling authority must be the Government of the Union.” Commis­

sions of enquiry have followed, with repetition of the same findings,i.e., unsatisfactory living conditions in urban life. These were partly consequent to the Land Act of 1913, which took the first step in territorial separation of the races.

The First World War caused the postponement of suggested legis­lation and the epidemic of 1918 revealed that Native conditions were a menace to the whole population.

A series of commissions have recommended practically the same measures: adequate housing, control of entry, but with little effect.II. The Movement to Town

All the larger towns now have the squatter problem: “ Pretoria is hemmed in on every side by squatters’ villages that exist illegally on the neighbouring farms.” . . . Johannesburg has the camps of Moroka and Jabavu, Durban has Cato Manor, Cape Town its Winder- mere and the Cape Flats. “The police are powerless because they know of no place to which the inhabitants can be moved.”

This influx is not unique, but the same in all lands. “ As the population of the earth increases, there is no room left for new generations to settle in virgin territory.”

Proportionately to their numbers, the movement of Natives to town since 1911 is less than that of Europeans.

In 1946 the figures of rural and urban populations are:Urban Rural

European .................. 1,719,338 653,352Natives .................. 1,794,212 6,011,380

When the European movement set in in 1911—1921, “ the first remedy that both the people and the Government wanted to clutch at was reflected in the cry: ‘ Back to the land!’. When now we look back it is very clear that this cry called for an utterly impracticable and impossible solution.”

Figures are given of the sections of the populations in the chief centres of the Union, with the striking increase of the past 10 years. In the Reef towns (excluding Johannesburg) non-Europeans—being chiefly Natives—greatly out-number Europeans. In most other indus­trial centres the balance is more even, and sometimes slightly in favour of the Europeans.

A table is given of the numbers of male and female Natives in the towns, and here the disparity is very great except for a few places, one of which is Bloemfontein, where there are slightly more women than men, owing to the old and settled location with its privately owned houses. One woman to five men, or to seven men, is the evil condition in some Reef towns. Cape Town has half as many women as men.III. Influx of Natives from Other Areas

A number of workers are recruited for the mines and enter legally: in addition there is a constant influx over the border. “ It is a sheer impossibility to guard the whole of the Limpopo ” . Moreover, Natives from Rhodesia are sought for in certain classes of work.IV. The Union Native Rural Areas

In spite of the movement to town, the majority of Natives are in the country. 40 per cent, being in the Native areas, the rest on European farms. Reserves are very scattered, specially in the Trans­vaal. Most are over-populated and over-stocked. In the Ciskei there are over 14,000 families that have no gardens, and the land of the others is in a bad state. While the Reserves are rapidly deteriorating, the people living on them are growing accustomed to a higher

. as safe as U n i o n Loan Certif icates

The Government stands behind every Union Loan Certificate you buy. There is no other similar loan in our world which offers you so high a return— 3.48 per cent, compound interest over seven years free from income tax.

Union Loan Certificates may be converted into cash at any time. This is the simplest and safest way to save for a secure future.27 per cent, capital appre­ciation over a seven-year period.

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15/9AT ALL

PO ST O FFIC ES

HISTORYof

N.C.W.S.A.1909-1948

Compiled by

Mrs. MARY TREHARNE

This History is now on sale. . Price l / 6 per

copy, post free.

E V E R Y member of the Council s h o u l d obtain a copy. Order through your Branch

Council or direct from

MRS. R. S. LOW , 14, Banksia Road,

Rosebank, Cape,

who is in charge of sales.

A ll orders must be accompanied by cash.

standard of life. “ Industrialisation of the Reserves will, of course, Increase their carrying capacity.”

Although the proportion of Natives to Europeans in the rural areas is 9 to 2, yet there is a serious shortage of farm labour. The economic, social and moral dislocation in the tribe due to the absence o f the married men is mentioned.V. Urban Areas

The deflection of labour to other work than mining is shown by the fact that the gold mines look for more than 50 per cent, of their Natives outside the Union. In spite of lack of housing, Natives seek work in industries. In the peninsula 31,000 Natives are registered;11,000 reside at Langa and another 5,000 have accommodation from their employers. “ The rest live mainly in dwellings not fit for habitation.”

It is deduced “ that the idea of total segregation is utterly imprac­ticable; secondly, that the movement from country to town has a background of economic necessity.”

The question of the removal of all discriminatory measures is discussed, in the light of the fact that the types of Natives in urban areas differ greatly, some being strangers to European ideas of life. "“■This does not mean,” states the report, “ that there are not order, cleanliness and mortality in Native tribal life, but they are moulded on a different pattern and spring from other conditions.”

Direct representation of Natives on town councils was objected to, t>y almost all municipalities.

Locations should henceforth be known as Native villages and Increasing responsibility given to the residents to manage their own affairs, while the advisory boards should be strengthened by the admis­sion to them of teachers—at present excluded.

“ A strong liaison between the Native village board and the town Council is required.” Regular meetings should be held between the Native committee of the Council and a committee appointed by the Native village.

The question of the provision of houses is discussed. It is found that Natives who own their own houses are among the “ most orderly and reliable inhabitants ” of the village, where this is permitted. The extension of facilities in trading is advocated.VI. Native Villages outside Municipal Areas

These are so complex in their problems that it is considered advisable to form a new sub-department of the Native Affairs to deal with them. The plight of Natives who are driven from place to place because they have no legal right to be anywhere is discussed. More sites for villages should be acquired and provision made for the workers in industries, etc.VII. Native Pass Laws

Noting that “ the feeling amongst the Natives against the Pass laws is a violent one,” the question of the many documents required is discussed.

Without advocating the immediate banishment of passes, it is advised that “ the ideal should be the gradual disappearance of these other documents” and their place taken by a single identity card, which might well be carried by all races. A country-wide organisation should be formed for the direction of labour by information as to where it is needed. All should be voluntary. “ We suggest,” say the commissioners, “ that no penalty should be imposed for the mere non-production of a document.”

“ The registration of service contracts . . . has so many advan­tages that in principle it ought to remain,” at any rate for those earning less than £ 4 a week.

The ultimate disappearance of the curfew is desired.VIII. Migratory Labour

The conclusions on this matter are definite, that it is a bad system and must go. To strengthen the case lengthy quotations are given from the evidence of authoritative witnesses. Professor Burrows- says: “ As a result (of migrant labour) there is to-day no s e lf - supporting peasant economy, no permanent agricultural labour force,- and no stable urban population.”

While the arguments of the Chamber of Mines for retaining the.' present system are given, they are exploded.

Rev. H. P. Junod gives interesting evidence on African sexual life in connection with the migrant system. He utters these grave words: “In my long experience of ministration to the souls of African con­demned men, the overwhelming evidence of the deterioration of morals through migratory labour was quite inescapable.”

Dr. Gale (Secretary for Health) deals with migrant labour in con­nection with the gold mines and the fallacy that the workers enjoy good health. He says: “ Mine medical services protect the mine- worker only so long as he is on the mine. They do not extend to the rural area to which he returns when his health breaks down owing to the conditions of migratory labour . . . The mines are not debited with a high tuberculosis death-rate . . . but sample surveys here and there suggest that some 75 per cent, of those who leave the mines with incipient tuberculosis are dead within two years. In the interval they have spread infection . . . The point is that the migratory system favours the uncontrolled spread of V.D. and T.B.” He sums up in the following words: “ There is piling up an enormous debit of physical and economic ill-health, none the less real because it is only apparent to medical men, social workers and agricultural economists and not to the general public or even to the industrialists who are temporarily beneflitting from cheap labour . . . Already we have the highest incidence of venereal disease and tuberculosis, among Natives, of any country in the world that keeps reliable statistics.”

Dr. Gale also explodes the ridiculous theory that men do not like to take their family to town and says: “ Of course they do not— to the towns as they know them to-day, with a vast preponderance of males!”

The whole matter of stabilising the urban population is discussed and is strongly advocated.

As for the provision of housing in urban areas, “ it has become a national question, touching national welfare and threatening national safety. For these the Government is pre-eminently respon­sible and where no other authority takes the situation in hand in an efficient manner, the Government will simply have to act and bear the expense.”IX. Other Matters

The Report advocates that Natives should build their own houses, having been favourably impressed by their work in this line. Cheap and adequate transport facilities are stressed. The matter of hom e- brewing is discussed and it is pointed out that where this has been allowed and been a success, it is owing to the efforts of Native Block- men (i.e., those in charge of a section of a location) who have super­vised and prevented excess.

Native witnesses objected to racial discrimination in liquor. A scheme was suggested whereby a person should be allowed, regardless o f race, to purchase according to his income.

In conclusion, after summing up their findings, the members of the Commission again affirm their conviction that separation of the races is impossible. “The destructive wars of Europe have shown that total territorial separation of peoples is no guarantee whatever o f peace . . . The Rev. J. H. M. Stofberg, one of the representatives of the Dutch Reformed Church of the Transvaal, motivated his rejection o f the idea of total segregation . . . with the significant words: “ For we need them and they need us.”

They also point out that “ the redistribution of the population has shifted the spear-point of our Native problem—or rather, the problem of regulating the relation between European and Native. It is no longer in the Reserves; it is now in the towns. It is therefore a disturbing thought that—In accordance with a policy we have inherited from pre-Union days . . . the regulation of the contacts in the towns is not in the hands of the central Government, but in the hands of hundreds of municipalities that are scattered over the

•country. It is they who have to handle the explosive situations. The system is now so deeply rooted that it cannot be suddenly overthrown. We do propose, however, that the Government should equip itself— should create the necessary machinery—so as to enable it, firstly, to give general guidance and direction in an efficient manner; secondly, to step in where the situation is not being managed by any other authority; and, thirdly, to be in a position to take matters in hand

^itself where conditions get out of control.”X . Annexures

Seven annexures are added to the report, including the terms of reference, the draft of a bill for the amending of the existing laws, and other matters. A list of people and bodies who submitted memoranda or appeared as witnesses before the commission is given. It is noteworthy that whereas other women’s organisations made a single appearance, the National Council of Women made nine, one deputation going from Headquarters and eight from Branches. A large number of Africans gave evidence.

In conclusion it can be stated that the general tenor of the report Is moderate and far from revolutionary. The new direction necessary for Native Affairs has been clearly indicated, without any proposed rush down the pathways opened up. Two important matters are. how­ever, stressed with unmistakable emphasis: the impending demise of the migrant labour system, and the ability of the advance guard of Africans to manage their own community affairs.

JESSIE HERTSLET,(National Adviser Native Affairs

National Council Women.)

Resume of address delivered by Dr. FOULLOIS of the Department o f Public Health to the Tweespruit Westminister Outpost, in April.

She said that disease can no longer be regarded as something to be cured only, but must get a positive orientation as something to be prevented by radical treatment of all the underlying causes whether they be personal, social, economic or otherwise. A variety of factors which could be grouped together under the heading of “ medical sociology ” and for this there should be a special chair at each medical school.

The better an understanding we have of all the diverse and multiple factors that have a bearing on health and disease, the better we shall be able to realise and put into practice the ideas of social medicine, where the doctor will be a “ health man ” rather than a “ medicine man From a negative state of no illness we must pass on to the idea of preventative medicine, which is applied to the prevention of disease, and then beyond that to a form of medicine devoted to the creation of positive good health.

In this new concept, women must play a very important role. Every woman and man should be healthy at marriage. Parents should concern themselves with this as they now do as regards the financial position of the fiance. Many tragedies could be prevented if the community as a whole was better educated in health matters. The child should not only be considered from the time it is born; con­ditions affecting the prenatal state are of tremendous importance to the child as well as the mother. There should be sufficient facilities to provide for the expectant mother—blood picture, X-ray, advice on diet, detection of any abnormality and conditions that, at that stage might not yet be regarded as what is commonly termed “ disease.” In this connection it is of interest that a “Women’s Health Inquiry Committee” was formed in England in 1933 to inves­tigate general conditions of health among married working women; the following facts were revealed: 33 per cent, had good health, 21 per cent, fair health, 15 per cent, bad health, and 31 per cent, very bad health. One woman summarised the feelings of many by stating that the constant struggle against poverty made her nervous, irritable and impatient, and that this mental anxiety profoundly affected her physical state. In a routine examination of so called “normal families” at the Peckham Health Centre only 21 per cent, were aware of subjective feelings of pain, discomfort or dis-

ability; 68 per cent, suffered from some disorder and only 11 per cent, were found completely free of disease; 1,500 persons were examined. This lack of health affects the community economically and is the cause of disharmony in the home and social life. One of the weapons by which this must be combatted is by proper feeding habits. To get a variety is important and a good motto to adopt is “ eat little of much.” Roughly, \ or more of money for food should be spent on fruit and vegetables; i or more on protective foods as milk, cheese, and butter; i or less on meat and fish, and i or less on bread, cereals, fats and groceries.

We must all strive to acquire a positive outlook on health. Volun­tary organisations can do much to help to reach the ideal of an A1 nation for this fair country of ours.

THE SAVE THE CHILDREN FUNDNo organisation which has been in existence as long as The Save

the Children Fund is lacking in romance and history, especially if it has been working in the international field during the 29 years which have elapsed since the ending of World War I. Ancient history is not, however, the purpose of this short article; facts are offered here in the hope that they may prove of use to those interested in children and in international relations.

1.—The Save the Children Fund (S.C.F.) was founded in Great Britain in 1919 by Miss Eglantyne Jebb with the immediate object of sending relief to children starving in Vienna^

2.—In 1921 Miss Jebb founded the international organisation known as the Save the Children International Union, now called the International Union for Child Welfare. Starting with three societies of national standing she aimed at raising the standard of child care throughout the world by encouraging international interest in the improvement of child welfare. To-day fifty-seven national societies working for children and representing thirty-seven different countries are members of the I.U.C.W.

3.—In 1923 Miss Jebb drew up the Declaration of the Rights of the Child or the Declaration of Geneva. This very short document was accepted by the League of Nations as its Charter for Child Welfare in 1924 and is being considered in a more modern form by U.N.O. It lays down that any child in need must be helped, regardless of its race, nationality or̂ creed. Thus it embraces all children, where- ever they are found who are in need of help whether the need is physical (food, clothes, medicine), moral (delinquency), mental (education and mental hygiene) or spiritual (security and religion).

4.—Between the two wars the S.C.F. established itself as a force in Great Britain where it worked untiringly for the under-privileged children in the special areas where it established nursery schools, gave free milk in schools, helped with clothing, etc., etc. In the inter­national field it was equally active and the contacts made in those years have stood it in good stead since it started its relief work in Europe at the end of 1944.

5.—It has continued its work both in the British and international field. In Great Britain it runs a number of junior clubs in London and some of the great sea ports. These clubs which cater for children between the ages of five to fifteen (school age) are designed to help children of the poorer districts of these cities to develop a sense of responsibility and community and to occupy them in the evening when they might otherwise be running into mischief in the streets. The

membership fee is Id. a week and the clubs—under the supervision of the wardens—are run by a committee of children elected by them­selves. The S.C.F. also maintains a home for delicate girls at Broad- stairs on the coast of Kent and runs play centres for London toddlers

6.—The main task of the Fund to-day is in the relief field. As a founder member of the Council of British Societies for Relief Abroad (C.O.B.S.R.A.) it was one of the relief organisations to send early help into Europe. Its first teams landed in Greece in December, 1944; since then its activities have spread to ^Yugoslavia; France; tBelgium; Germany, where it works among Displaced Persons and Germans alike; Austria; Hungary; Poland; Italy and tRumania. It has also contri­buted clothes, food and medicines to Holland, Norway, Denmark, Luxembourg and Czechoslovakia. It recruits its personnel for this work from among children’s specialists, and employs doctors, nurses, dieticians, nursery school teachers, nursery nurses, club leaders and others to administer the clinics, homes and hospitals that it has set up in the different countries of Europe. Mention must also be made of the work done in Malaya since the liberation, which has now crystallised itself into a training school for 200 dilinquent boys— Malays, Tamils and Chinese.

7.—At the moment the Fund is running two medical centres in large country districts of Poland; clinics in Greece; the Weardale Home for Girls in Hungary; homes and a hospital for D.P. children in Ger­many; camps for tubercular D.P. children in Austria. It is actively engaged among the German children in Brunswick and Austria in re-establishing welfare and educational facilities. In Italy it has interested itself in a scheme for training nursery school teachers and in France its work lies in helping institutions and private individuals with gifts of clothing and supplementary food for children

* Yugoslavia: Work completed in 1947.t Belgium: Work completed in 1946.tRum ania: Mission undertaken and completed in 1947.8.—To conclude may I enumerate a few of the more pressing needs

of the children:—(a) Food, milk, cocoa, chocolate, cod liver oil.(b) Clothes, new and second-hand in good condition, shoes

napkins, sewing cotton, darning wool.(c) Blankets.(d) Medical supplies, cotton wool, safety pins, tapes towelsMoney is also urgently needed to enable work already undertaken

to be continued. Donations in the Cape Province may be sent to Mrs L. Eenjamin, Clandon, Southfield Road, Plumstead. In the Transvaai and other provinces to the Treasurer, S.C.F. 187, Shakespeare House Commissioner Street, Johannesburg. Anyone wishing to form a local committee should get in touch with the Secretary at the Johannesburg address or with Mrs. Benjamin.

APPEAL TO THE WOMEN OF THE WORLDDuring the Second Session of the Commission on the Status of

Women of the United Nations Economic and Social Council held in Lake Success in January, 1948, the fifteen members issued an Appeal to the Women of the World.^ “ We the representatives of fifteen countries, gathered in the Status of Women Commission of United Nations to safeguard the interests of all women, appeal to the many millions of women through­out the world to work in every possible way for the peace and pros­perity of peoples everywhere.

“ Peace throughout the world is the ardent dream of all women. We, the women of the entire world, must take our stand against war. Let us proclaim that there is no material difficulty or mental conflict between peoples that can in reality be solved by war because it ruins all peoples.

“ Women are more than half the population of the world. Let us use our time wisely. Let us show the world that the growing influence of women in public life is an influence for peace and for patient striving to build friendly relations between all peoples and nations.

“ There is no woman anywhere in the world who wants war, who does not know that the only guarantee for the happiness of her children and her home is that the peace of the world should be secure.

'‘ Let the voice of the women of the world ring out strong and clear to remind statesmen that their most urgent task is to work to remove the causes of war.

“ We have a meeting ground for constructive work for peace in the United Nations. Let us strengthen this instrument. Let women play an historical part in the prevention and removal of present and future threats of war, so that it can realise the deepest aspirations of women everywhere for a world of peace and freedom for their children and generations yet to come.”

Quotation from the United Nations Bulletin, February 15, 1948.

MESSAGE FROM JAN MASARYK.“ We are all nice people. Let us get to know each other and

make sure that we do not lose the peace we fought so hard for and that we all need so much. Good luck to you.”

Sent by Mrs. J. K. Robertson,I.S.C. Peace and International Relations, N.C.W.S.A.

GOODWILL WEEKIn the face of all evidence to the contrary one must believe in a

reasoning world. It seems almost incredible that there should be individuals, who, after the terribly destructive time of horror through which humanity struggled for over six years, can yet dream of promoting anything but peace. Yet the conflict between peoples, the lack of co-operation, the lack of any sense of spiritual values or of human relationships show that the lesson of goodwill and co-operation has not been learnt. The relations between peoples and things are the most important and varied for they cover the world of affairs, home and foreign politics, the letters and arts, from the art of cookery to architecture. Happily, there are people of goodwill, but for the most part they are content to be passive, and for goodwill to be effective it must be positive: a strong group of individuals all pulling together would have great dynamic force, but it must be an active, participant group in every nation.

Here in South Africa the tendency is to be too complacent towards things that are not entirely material. It all comes back to the individual. Every individual who has a sense of human and spiritual values must stand up for Justice, Honour and Goodwill, not merely think these things but express them openly.

An opportunity will occur during the Goodwill Week, which will be from May 16th to the 23rd, for every individual to co-operate publicly with all persons of goodwill in a meeting at the City Hall, Cape

Town, on Sunday, May 16, at 3 o’clock, when there will be well known speakers, singing and massed choir. On the 18th, which is children’s day. Dr. Skaife will deliver the broadcast message from the children of Wales, and will then broadcast the message from the children of South Africa to the children of Wales. This message will girdle a good part of the earth.

It is hoped that during this week parents and teachers will speak on aspects of goodwill, nationally and internationally.

, The Goodwill Council ask for the thoughts and prayers for Peace and Goodwill from every individual, also that thoughts of differences of race, colour and creed should be rigorously excluded.

_______________ D.J.

BRANCH NEWSBENONI. At our April meeting the speaker was the Rev. Stanley Smith

of the Missions to Seamen, who gave a most interesting address.He described the work of the Mission and the great need existing for

such work, especially among men of the Merchant Navy who, now that the war is over, tend to become, once more, the “forgotten men” although their work is very nearly as difficult and hazardous as it was in time of war

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The Mission to Seamen caters for all men who follow the sea irrespective of creed, colour or race and does not confine itself to their spiritual needs alone.

After hearing this address we all felt that the Mission was an outstanding example of sound, practical Christianity adapting itself to present-day needs and conditions. Mrs. Nyland thanked the speaker and it was suggested that books should be collected and sent to the Mission in Durban. After tea the motions for the conference were read and discussed and as this took some timp it was decided to postpone the report on the visit to the Brakpan Native Creche until the next meeting when there would be time for a full discussion.

BLOEMFONTEIN.—Amongst the several important matters on the agenda for the March meeting was the removal of the market. Although this matter had been brought forward at a previous meeting no full debate had taken place, as the memorandum promised by the responsible committee of the City Council had not been received and it was felt that discussion would be fairer and wider if the relevant points, as discussed at the special meetings of members of the City Council and representative bodies were set out in detail. The chairman (Mrs. Hugh Wiley) gave a precis of the two meetings in this connection which she had attended, and after a lengthy discussion, it was decided to write to the Municipality stating that the Bloemfontein Branch Council and its affiliated societies were of the opinion that whilst it might be wise to purchase the ground in question for further expansion whilst it was available, the present wholesale market used by householders and the retail market should not, under any circumstances, be moved. The meeting was very definitely of the opinion that the present site of these markets was the best for the consumer purchaser, a,nd it would be most inconvenient and quite impossible for most of the present users—and certainly for the lower income groups—to go so far away to buy tneir commodities.

It was also felt that without the promised memorandum and diagrams it was not possible to make the public see the urgent necessity for the removal of the market as alleged by the then chairman of the committee dealing with this matter. It was also felt that if in the future, it was found necessary to make the change, the present site might then be utilised as a regional retail market.

It was noted from the Press that Dr. Gluckman (Minister of Health) had taken up the question of the Military Hospital, Tempe, with the Depart­ment of Defence as the result of a letter sent to him containing the City Council’s request that the hospital should be used to ease the serious shortage of beds at the National Hospital. The Secretary for Defence had, however, indicated through correspondence “that the use of these two buildings for purposes other than those of the U.D.F. would present serious difficulties.” This information was received with great regret in view of the present acute position more especially as Dr. Gluckman felt that “In the circum­stances further representations on his part could serve no useful purpose.” The Secretary for Defence was, however, to be asked by him to explain these difficulties more fully.

Mrs Rhodes Harrison presented a short report which dealt very fully with local matters relating to the Arts, and the tremendous increase in all branches during the period under review was noted with great satisfaction. The meeting was presided over by the President (Mrs. Hugh Wiley) and visitors, new representatives and new members were given a cordial welcome.

DURBAN.—Many new members were welcomed by the President, Mrs. Cyrus at the April meeting, and especially Miss Hurst, recently out from Wngianri, who had undertaken the duties of Hon. Secretary to the branch council.

Referring to the satisfactory increase in the membership, Mrs. Asher stressed the necessity for all members to be conversant with the principles laid down in the constitution, and to be careful that these were adhered to in all deliberations.

Although Mrs. Asher had not been successful in her Parliamentary nomination, she urged the council to prepare members for future elections, so that public opinion could be influenced to send a group of women to make history in the South African Parliament. Much work would have to be done before it was realised how important a part women could play in the govern­ment of the country.

Reference was made to the reports of the Fagan and Broome Commis­sions, and much satisfaction expressed that the problems confronting the African of to-day had been tackled by two such able chairmen.

Mrs. Asher urged the members to study the reports most carefully, as never before in the history of South Africa had there been a greater need of tolerance and wise leadership. The wellbeing of the country as a whole depended upon the vast African majority taking their rightful place in the social and economic structure.

It is satisfactory to note that following a meeting between representatives of the N.C.W. and Housewives’ League and the Union Letting Controller, and also with the help of our local M.P., Mr. Ivan Walker visited Durban and is now setting up a Letting Control Committee, one of whose members is to be a woman.

This committee will, we hope, deal expeditiously with long-delayed re­organisation of the local Letting Control.

EAST LONDON.—The guest speaker at the April meeting was Miss Esm6 Speakman, Diploma’d Guider from Great Britain and ex leader of a Guide International Service team in post-war relief work in Europe. Miss Speak­man, who is taking a busman’s holiday in S.A., and during a 48-hour stay

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in East London got in three sessions of intensive training, is a most delightfully easy and eloquent speaker and kept her large audience enthralled by her account of the G.I.S. work mostly in Holland and Germany. Her moving tributes to the Guides and Scouts in the oppressed countries and her picture of the conditions G.I.S. had to grapple with will remain a lasting and burning memory to all who heard her. Mrs. B. A. Steer, President East London Guide Association, moved and Mrs. Hartnell, Assistant District Commissioner, seconded a vote of thanks to the speaker which was carried most warmly amid loud applause. It was agreed to request Headquarters to send a cable to Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of Their Majesties’ Silver Wedding.

The meeting stood in respect to the memory of the late Lady Duncan, and of Mrs. D. McMillan’s father who died recently.

In consequence of the shortage of beds in the Prere Hospital due to so many chronic sick patients, it was resolved to address the local M.P.C.s on the urgent need for a chronic sick hospital on the Border and to organise a street petition in support.

It was agreed to write to the Police and the Native Affairs Department and request an inquiry into the circumstances which led up to the Middle- drift murders.

The M.O.H. is to be written to, pressing for a reversion to the bottle- for-bottle milk delivery service immediately.

It was announced that Mrs. Reid has become Corresponding Member for Broadcasting and would welcome reports on programmes, especially those for children. Miss Soga, President of the N.C. of African Women, who was cordially welcomed by the President, Mrs. Puller, consented to elicit African opinion on the Xosa broadcasts.

GRAAFF-REINET.—At the April meeting reports were distributed by the Secretary to the branch’s corresponding members, and each one was asked to study a report and bring her resume to the May meeting where these would be read. This was arranged to save time at the general meeting.

Two members were appointed to attend the local Pood for Britain meeting as representatives of the N.C.W.

Funds for travelling expenses for our delegates to conference were discussed, and the treasurer was asked to set aside the necessary amount.

Considerable time was taken discussing the resolutions and the branch’s vote at conference.

After tea Mrs. R. H. Murray read a most interesting paper on migration.GRAHAMSTOWN.—At the March meeting the following matters were

dealt with: Morning Market. The Executive Committee had met the Market Master to hear his views on the possibility of a retail market for housewives. He stated that seven attempts had already been made—all of them failures and that conditions at present made a new effort quite impossible. He advocated instead housewives clubs, turns being taken to do the buying and accepted various suggestions which might help housewives in their marketing.

Bicycle regulations: Problems had occurred with regard to (a) Carrying of loads on bicycles, (b) Depositing of bicycles on footpaths, (c) Passengers on bicycles, (d) The use of bicycles on pavements. It was decided that a statement of problems be drawn up for the consideration of the Municipal Council, so that if regulations came up for review some changes might be incorporated.

Films in the Location: It was reported that very bad films were being shown to Africans in the Location. The President had consulted various prominent and responsible Africans and they had all denied that the films were morally harmful but complained that they were boring and old. It was pointed out to the meeting that films were a business monopoly and many were bad for both European and non-Europeans, and help could only come

through public opinion. The N.C.W. headquarters might, however, appeal for a better choice and suggest suitable films.

Sale of Margarine: Cooking margarine had been offered in the town for 2s. 3d. per lb. The I.S.C. member had interviewed the Dairy Control Board and the Minister, and had been told that it should be sold at one price only— Is. 4d. per lb.

The matter of soil conservation and of equal voting rights for non- European men and women were discussed and with regard to the latter it was decided that until higher educational qualifications were introduced the way was open for unscrupulous politicians.

GREYTOWN.—In February we were privileged to ha\je Mrs. Terry, ex­president of the Maritzburg Branch, and Mr. Allison from Maritzburg, to speak to us about aged people’s position in South Africa.

Mrs. Terry first put the N.C.W.’s views with regard to the matter and urged our branch to join in the vital question by investigating conditions in our area and sending facts forward to headquarters.

Mr. Allison then told us a little about provisions made in Pietermaritzburg and the housing scheme which though good was totally inadequate. He also gave us some figures to illustrate the appalling poverty in which many of our aged are living.

Circulars 9, 40 and 41 were discussed. The vice-President, Mrs. Udal, asked the meeting to again express its opinion on the Native Extension Block the Provincial Council wished to add to the present European hospital. The meeting was in favour of the Provincial Council carrying this scheme to fruition.

In March the President asked Mrs. Slatter to supply us with any facts about the aged people in the area, so that they may be forwarded to head office before the conference in April.

A circular was read dealing with U.N.A.C. appeal for children.The President then introduced Mr. Ferguson who is a man who has

devoted almost his entire life in service to others. During the war he was a key-worker in Y.M.C.A. and before in Scotland a boys’ club organiser. Mr. Ferguson gave a most inspiring address, “The Formation and Organisation of Boys’ Clubs.” He stated that the necessity for boys’ clubs arose out of the mechanisation of labour—which was not only exhausting but soul destroying. Pride in personal achievement in work produced had disappeared. In conclusion Mr. Ferguson spoke of the crying need in Natal for Bantu clubs. He also appealed to the women of the N.C.W. to help in their own town by taking orphanage children into their homes for the holiday and even a day so that they too may appreciate just a little bit of home life.

JOHANNESBURG.—April: At the Goodwill Lunch a musical programme was given by the prize winners at the Eisteddfod and was very much enjoyed by the members.

The council meeting took place afterwards, Mrs. Mitchell-Hunter presiding.

Broadcasting: Mrs. Thornton Archer gave information on the question­naire which had come from the International Convener for Broadcasting. Members were asked to support U.N.E.S.C.O. efforts in the field of radio, broadcasting, cause of peace, and were asked to make surveys of special programmes for youth, Natives, etc.

Affiliated Societies: Mrs. Behrman reported on a successful tour of Social Welfare Depots.

Home for Inebriate Women: Mrs. Kewley reported on the meeting to consider the ways and means of establishing such a home. It was agreed to ask the Government to establish such homes in all large centres.

International Tension: Mrs. Robertson said that several people had written or seen her about the acute international tension. We must realise

that this feeling between “East and West” dated back to something very ancient in man’s nature, and therefore very hard to overcome. In the tribal state, men had skirmishes on the* frontiers, and we saw the same thing in Berlin to-day. The attitude of the N.C.W.S.A. was to urge friendliness, under­standing and reason in order to overcome the old tribal instincts. She read a statement made by the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, whose 15 women members exhorted women to use all their influence on the side of peace.

KING WILLIAM’S TOWN.—It was decided to celebrate Goodwill Day, 18th May, with a luncheon at which there would be a guest speaker.

The branch receives magazines and periodicals of great interest but there is no central place where these can be kept. Mrs. Urry, the secretary, suggested that the King William’s Town Public Library be asked if it would be possible for these to be placed in its reading room so that they would be available to anyone who might be interested.

At the meeting the two delegates to conference were instructed in the attitude they were to adopt towards the resolutions to be discussed at conference.

The meeting also discussed many local problems. The branch had asked the Borough Council to help it to establish a domestic servants employment bureau in the non-European township for the benefit of housewives and servants. The branch is awaiting a reply to this application.

KNYSNA.—A “Bring and Buy” Sale, to raise funds for the running of our branch, was held on the 6th March, and realised £50 7s. One of our members, Mrs. Newdigate, was responsible for the organisation of it, and she and her helpers are to be congratulated on its success.

Mrs. Rhodes-Harrison, I.C.S. for Arts and Literature, visited our town on one of the tourist trains recently. At a tea party given for her at the home of Mrs. Zahn, Mrs. Rhodes-Harrison gave a very interesting talk on “Arts and Literature,” which was thoroughly enjoyed by those members present. We are grateful to her for taking such an interest in our branch.

KROONSTAD.—At the April meeting the members stood in silence as a token of sympathy with the relatives of the late Mr. J. C. Kemsley and the late Lady Duncan.

After Mrs. Wessels had rendered a pianoforte solo, Mrs. Sage thanked Mrs. Holmes for her years of service to the branch and presented her with a little gift from the members.

The highlight of the meeting was a discussion on the cinema. Mrs. Symons outlined the value of the cinema in schools in the teaching of Geography, Nature Study, Science, etc., but objected to parents taking young children to evening performances. In a very able speech Mrs. Sage discussed the influence through suggestion exerted by the cinema. So frequently this led to juvenile delinquency, to nightmares and to discontentment as so few of the films shown are really suitable for children and the familiar American was ousting good English. In many of the most popular films adultery, divorce and dishonesty are not only palliated but presented in a most attractive manner thus effecting a blunting of conscience. Apart from comfortable seating accommodation and a convenience for harassed and careless mothers, the cinema can be of great educative value and give much pleasure. Travel films, sport films, newsreels, etc., widen our plane of interest while Grand Opera can be seen and heard almost on our doorsteps.

Mrs. van Niekerk admired animal pictures and films near the heart with reality of subject and background like “The Yearling,” “Nicholas Nickleby” and “The Bells of St. Mary.”

In summing up, Mrs. du Randt described the cinema as the essence of democracy and a permanent influence in our national life. Though some consider the cinema as a place of iniquity and evil influence the majority

contend that its good influence, educationally and culturally far outweigh the evil. For many it is the only pleasure afforded in dull, humdrum lives and there are pictures to suit all tastes. The cinema exerted a most marked influence on dress and beauty culture and stimulated reading. It also stimulated the critical faculties and the power of appreciation. The cinema has vast influence too as an agent for international understanding and peace. Correctly chosen pictures can do much to ban narrow provincialism and prejudice. The cinema must not only entertain and amuse, but guide and instruct. Teachers realise the value of audio-visual mode of instruction particularly for backward children. It is a powerful, dynamic teaching aid. In general the public must demand a better standard of films and boycott those that are poor or mediocre. Children under seven are best in the open air and should be kept away from cinemas.

MOSSEL BAY.—Mr. J. Starker, principal of the Trade School at George, who was one of the three South African delegates who attended the “Unesco” conference in Paris last year, was a very interesting and entertain­ing guest speaker at the N.C.W. meeting last month. Mr. Starker’s special interest was as an Education delegate and he described his experiences at the first semina of the education section of “Unesco.” He found the diversity of people among the 80 delegates from 31 countries, with whom he worked for a month, of most absorbing interest. There was a valuable interchange of thought which helped to do away with the practice of accepting so much on bias. To attain peace through education is one of the main aims of “Unesco” and the broadening of the cultural and scientific approach to common problems and co-operation with adult education movements. The speaker paid a tribute to the measure to which the N.C.W. contributes to adult education among its members.

It was found, said Mr. Starker, that spiritual values were manifest to a stimulating degree and in cultural interchange prejudices were cleared away. The education section of “Unesco” is establishing Bureaux for Education and Scientific research and striving for the improvement of understanding as a force in international relationships. It is possible that an education semina may be held in South Africa.

Mr. Starker graphically described the difference between the spirit o f the people of Switzerland, the peaceful land, and that of the French people, whose land has been a battle-ground for generations. In Switzerland the people are active, courageous and energetic and the towns and villages are clean and up-to-date. In France there is a marked lack of any reconstructive urge, as though the people have given up in despair. In Paris, which suffered much less from bombing than London, the people are far less inclined to plan and to reconstruct than are the Britishers.

Mrs. Searle, president, who welcomed Mr. and Mrs. Starker, expressed warm appreciation for an address which she described as “all an address should be—instructive, amusing and inspiring.”

Mrs. Cairns moved a vote of thanks on behalf of the members.

OUDTSHOORN.—Our April meeting took the form of a goodwill meeting, at which Miss T. H. Blythe gave a most interesting and inspiring address on “ the Mobilisation of Peace.” In proposing a vote of thanks to the speaker, Mrs. Piper expressed the genuine support and appreciation of all present.

Prior to this address our president, Mrs. van Soelen, proposed a vote o f thanks to the committee responsible for producing the local N.C.W. “Peace” float for the Centenary Celebrations, and congratulated them on the success of the float.

A letter from Mrs. Kahn, resigning her position as secretary was read. Mrs. van Soelen expressed her deep regret at the loss of so sincere and able a worker, and hoped that her resignation would be only a temporary one.

11i PIETERMARITZBURG.—At the April meeting there was a discussion upon the resolutions to be submitted to the Biennial Conference chiefly in order that the president Mrs. A. R. Williams, who will be a delegate, might gauge the feelings of the branch concerning them.

Later a talk was given by Mr. A. R. Williams, of the Technical College, Maritzburg, on “Some Aspects of British Education.” Mr. Williams who has ifecently returned from a trip overseas, where he visited many educational centres and contacted many educational authorities, said, in the course of a very interesting address, that a fresh spirit appeared to have entered into British educational methods. Every effort was being made to understand and meet the real needs of children while at school and also to maintain their interest in education and culture after school-leaving age. The purely academic side was not stressed so much as it used to be. Children were encouraged on the one side to use their hands as well as their brains and on the other side to use their brains as well as their hands. This ensured a balance between mental and physical occupations which would prove highly beneficial to growing minds and bodies.

“It is realised in England to-day that education is wasted if it is not continued,” said Mr. Williams. That a wise and balanced education leads to a desire for knowledge. To this end there are to be compulsory full- or part- time schools for students from 15 to 18. With the idea that everyone must grow to desire knowledge and culture for their own sakes and so ensure a proficiency that will be a benefit to all.

PIETERSBURG.—The April meeting was opened with the reading of the Platform by the President.

Delegate to Conference: After some discussion it was decided that the president (Mrs. Willet) be asked to represent the Pietersburg Branch at the conference to be held at Cape Town. Mrs. Willet agreed.

> Resolutions for conference were then discussed and 11 were adopted.1 A lively discussion took place on the “Women Jurors Act” and the

meeting was of the' opinion that this should remain optional as in the past.The President read the circular letter addressed to all candidates for

parliamentary election, expressing our views on the legal disabilities of the women in South Africa.

Mrs. Kleinenberg (corresponding member for peace) brought to the notice o f the meeting the United Nations Appeal for Children (U.N.A.C.) and after explaining its objects the meeting decided to support this appeal when it was launched.

PRETORIA—It was doubtless due to the fact that Mrs. Anne Cooke, delegate to the Philadelphia Conference would present her report personally that there were so many visitors to speak a word of welcome to her at the April meeting.

In opening her address, Mrs. Cooke remarked that her report having appeared in the current number of the “News” left her free to speak in a less formal manner and could give her personal impressions. We were told not only of the work done there but of the excellent arrangements for accommodation and entertainment and of the remarkable women she had met. She was Visibly moved while relating certain incidents which had touched her deeply at the time—and now, in telling of them to listeners in a country which had been spared the horrors of occupation by the enemy and of the tragedy of those who had suffered so terribly, the sorrow was brought home to her listeners. She felt that her attendance at the conference had been an unforgettable experience.

. Following on an invitation for suggestions for the celebration of Goodwill Day, it was eventually decided to approach the U.N. Association with a view to co-operation in the event.

A special committee was appointed to thoroughly investigate the possi­bility of holding a second meeting every month in order to cope with the ever increasing business of the council or any of the other- suggestions made by members. v., ;

The convener of the Legislative Committee reported on the work of tHe recent' conference held in Johannesburg. The following were dealt with: Shop-hour closing, which, while desirable in some towns proved a hardship, in other places. Dog Racing Ordinance, not yet implemented. Dual Medium-. Ordinance, when it was pointed out that the findings of the Conference of: Inspectors had not yet been released for publication; ahd the troubles of the - married women teachers.

A memorandum on broadcasting was presented by the relative Cor. Member which was received with deep interest. Dealing impartially with . broadcasts—programmes and players, times and methods^ and also with listeners, giving both criticism and praise, it was wholesome -and refreshing. An appeal was made for listeners to give a deeper interest to the broadcasts: with a view to assisting those whose function it is to provide these for our.- entertainment and instruction.

QUEENSTOWN.—At the April meeting Mrs. Louw, the vice-president, was in the chair as Mrs. Heynike, the president, is away for six months.

Concerning the question of a full-time M.O.H. it was announced by Mrs. Louw that the building at the back of the Town Hall is being set in order for a temporary health centre, and the cottage at the laundry is also to be used. The position will not be advertised till these premises are ready.

Mrs. Ensor read a circular letter sent by the N.C.W. to the candidates for the election, asking them several questions on their attitude towards the proposed alterations to the laws concerning women. The reply from Mr. van Coller was read by Mrs. Forbes, to the effect that he was in favour of the new laws with some very unimportant reservations.

Mrs. Louw reminded the meeting of a thrift film and lecture evening to be held in early June and asked that all members should attend with their friends and especially their children. •A,,

Mrs. Roy asked whether the N.C.W. could do anything to help provide a tuberculosis hospital for Natives. At the present Natives who fall victims to this disease have to remain in their homes where they are a source- o f infection to many others.

There was some discussion on the advisability of taking steps to prevent the spread of poliomyelitis to this area. Letters are to be written suggesting that telephone booths should be sprayed with D.D.T., and also that: there should be no more matinees at the local cinema. .. :v .

RUSTENBURG.—At our April meeting Mrs. Coetzee was in the chair, owing to the absence of Mrs. Edwards at the biennial conference. ..........

Although it was a small meeting many topics were discussed. Mrs. Jordaan was appointed our representative at the forthcoming meeting, in Johannesburg in connection with the children’s theatre.

Mrs. McGregor and Mrs. Coetzee were elected as our members to meet the- parliamentary candidates of Rustenburg and ask whether, if returned, they would work for the abolition of legal disabilities of women.

SPRINGS—Preceding the business of the March meeting, two-miriute talks were given by Miss N. Gordimer, Coresponding Press Member, who presented a brTef “digest" of the current “N.C.W. News,” and by Mrs. B. Schnaid, Member for Law, who gave a most lucid and interesting talk on current legislation affecting housing, trust companies and other matters closely linked with our daily lives.

The Member for Housing, Mrs. Tasker, distributed a comprehensive and unusual housing questionnaire, asking members to consider their replies

Collection Number: AD1715

SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF RACE RELATIONS (SAIRR), 1892-1974

PUBLISHER: Collection Funder:- Atlantic Philanthropies Foundation

Publisher:- Historical Papers Research Archive

Location:- Johannesburg

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