Sta,—I much enjoyed reading Victor Bonham-Carter's The Parish Council in
your issue dated May 9th, and as chairman and clerk to Taverham (Norfolk) Parish Council would like to express thanks to you for the interest such an article must undoubtedly create amongst thinking people. I do feel, however, that the most important aspect of the usefulness of the parish council has been overlooked. While it may be desirable to provide amenities such as are laid down by the Act, there is much useful work which a parish council can do by friendly co-operation in securing the attention of the county and rural district councils to matters connected with the welfare of the parish, which are properly the concern of those higher authorities, but where the more intimate knowledge of the parish councillors render them able to initiate movement. Where necessary, the parish council can also act as the corporate voice of the parishioners in urging the attention of the appropriate authorities to shortcomings in services and facilities. I can instance many contacts which my council has made recently to advantage, e.g., with the bus company with regard to services to the parish, the Post Office in connection with postal facili- ties and the County Constabulary regarding police duty. I would say in conclusion that at least three parishes in this neighbourhood are fortunate in having councils of the " active" variety.—Yours faithfully, Crossways, Taverham, Norwich, Norfolk. E. F. HARDY.
Previous page
