SLUM CLEARANCE

Hokitika Guardian, 22 August 1933, Page 7

SLUM CLEARANCE

PRINCE AND HOUSING SCHEME

LANDLORD OF NEW FLATS

LONDON, August 14,

A letter from the Prince of Wales w'a s read at the Anglo-Catholic Congress .at the Albert Hall. The Prince expressed pleasure at the interest which the Housing Association of the congress was taking i dl the s lum problem. Although slum clearance was rightly entrusted to local authorities primarily, he added, there wa s abundant opportunity for valuable 00-operation by voluntary agencies and effort which could contribute i n two ways. “First, it ©an enlighten and instruct public opinion in the slum clearance problem, and it can stimulate and maintain public 'interest in the measures which are being taken to deal therewith,” the letter ran. “Secondly, organised voluntary effort can, if it- has 'sufficient funds available, 00-operatc with the local authority in providing the necessary rehousing accommodation for the families who are to be removed from the slum, 3 when their dwel-

lings there are demolished. I know, too, that voluntary workers in dealing with tenants seem often able to introduce the personal touch which is invaluable, but which cannot always be effected by official organisation.” A reply was sent to the Prince thanking him for his stirring message of encouragement in their campaign' for “slum clearances and the provision of homes for the people which shall be consistent .with a Christian social order.’’

The Prince bag closely inspected two blocks of flats which have been built o.n the Duchy of Cornwall Estate at Kennington. One block i s called Ne"’ouay House, the other Trcvose Hous«. The buildings are of red brick faced with Portland stone. Each of the 97 flats it self-contained, and is equipped with electric light, electric cooking, gas fivse, drying rooms, sun balconies and other up-to-date and healthy amenities. The rentals vary from 13s 6d to £1 per week. Everywhere the tenants told their Royal landlord, of their delight .in their new .homes..

The Prince arrived - bare-headed and wearing a. flannel suit. Accompanied by .Ma ; o,r Hilgvove McCormick, .secretary of the Duchy of Cornwall, he made a thorough tour, calling first at the flat on line ground floor, occupied by Mr and Mrs 0. 11. Maidment,-who have lived on the estate for nearly 40 years. “May I come in?” he asked, as he e,aw Mr and. 'Mrs Maidment standing at., their door, quite unprepared for lv« visit. “Certainly, sir, icome right in,” said Mrs Maidment, and the Prince followed her into the three-roomed flat.

“Now, tell me, are' you really comfprtablc,here?” the .Prince asked..

‘‘lndeed, 'we are, sir,” the couple replied, together, Mrs Maidment adding, "It. is just lovely,’’ She then delighted the Prince by remarking, ‘‘You have put 10 years on my husband’s life by giving vis these flats, sir.’’ ■ “T am ,so pleased,” the Prince said, with ,a smile,