South Yorkshire Times, March 2nd, 1934
West Riding County Council Election
Saturday March 3rd, 1934
Wath-Upon-Dearne Electoral Division
Ladies and Gentlemen,
At the request of a large number of ratepayers, representing all sections of the community, I have consented to become a candidate at the forthcoming Election.
Housing
The demolishing of old property – a vital thing in itself – and the rebuilding of new, is a matter which affects the everyday life of the people, and I believe that the powers of the County Council should be utilised to cause those Urban Rural authorities, who have failed in their obligations, to meet the requirements of the districts.
Education
Modern education I believe to be essential. Not only is it the greatest asset that can be given to our children, but a feeling of security regarding its future status in life. The Le-Zoute conference defined education as being to fashion character.
We ought to have beautiful schools and bright and healthy rooms. Nothing too good for the child.
And I should, if returned, press vigorously for provision to be made without delay for every child to have the opportunity of education and restoration to health.
Travelling accommodation for children in remote districts is also very important.
Highways
The construction and maintenance of highways to meet the increasing weight of traffic is a vital problem for the County Council, and this would receive my earnest consideration.
Schemes For Unemployed
I have, for several years, been the Wath-upon-Dearne Urban District Council representative for the unemployed and a testimony to my service is contained in a letter from the MINISTER of LABOUR dated January 5th, 1934, which states:
The voluntary services you have given as a member of the Panel on the Court of Reference is greatly appreciated and I trust you will continue to serve.
I am always trying to advocate schemes to try and find work to relieve the despair and apathy from which the unemployed man is suffering.
Means Test
I am definitely opposed to any allotment which undercuts the Government allowance.
I would point out my life’s work with the SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION which tabled a resolution protesting to the Government against the inadequate allowance for child maintenance. I support this as a member.
Finance
Although, at all times, my desire would be to support municipal reform for the benefit of the whole of the community, a stringent and most careful scrutiny of our finances would always command my attention.
If you honour me, by electing me as your representative, I should endeavour, to the best of my ability, to devote myself to your service and seek to bring to bear upon all the problems that arise, as intelligent solution based on what I believe to be for the best interests of the community as a whole.
Yours faithfully,
William Popplewell
1, William Street,
Wath-upon-Dearne.
February 26th, 1934