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9
foreword.
Local Conditions arising from the Great War
Edmonton has become accustomed to war conditions, which have brought,
at least, the compensation of high wages and constant employment. However,
this long-continued struggle between the nations will leave its mark on the
civilian population of Europe, especially the women, for the natural emotions
are fully engaged, particularly those of anxiety, love and fear. To these are
added the worry of food supplies, and the strain of over-work, often carried
out in places poorly lit, inadequately ventilated, and short of sanitary
requirements.
The birth-rate is, of course, greatly affected by the absence of fathers,
and it is further affected by an unusual number of miscarriages and abortions.
On the 31st August, 1915, my Council appointed "an Economy Committee,"
composed of nine members of the Council, "to enquire into the
working of the Council, with the object of reducing and re-organising the
same to meet the present conditions brought about by the war." This was
in response to the notorious "economy circular" of the Local Government
Board, dated 4th August, 1915. It presented interim reports, dated 24th
September and 22nd October. On January 25th, 1916, it presented a final
report, advocating important changes, estimated to save £904 yearly, but
the report was negatived by a large majority.
The Edmonton Tribunal. It first, met on December 1st, 1915. It
deals with voluntarily attested men and cases under the Military Service Act,
1916. On February 9th it was ordered to consist of 12 members instead of 7.
As before, two members are not Councillors. Our Clerk, Mr. F. W. Claxton,
was appointed Clerk of the Tribunal, with further assistance in his department.
In March, Mr. G. Switzer was appointed to represent the Trades and
Labour Council.
Conscientious Objectors. Ill May the Council declined to employ
them on any terms.
Enemy Aliens. In June the Council passed a resolution urging the
Government to intern all enemy aliens, and this was sent to the Prime Minister
and the local M.P.
Food Prices, Milk. In May the Council sent a resolution to the Prime
Minister and the President of the Local Government Board, urging the
Government to control the price of milk, in the interests of the public health
and child welfare, suggesting particularly that the slaughter of young milch