SIR,

On a day when storms and flooding hit many unsuspecting households across Wales, there was good news from the deputy leader of Monmouthshire County Council, Bob Greenland, as he outlined his own distressed concern for the homeless of the county, and pledged to build 400 new homes in Monmouth to alleviate their suffering.

This was a bit of shock news for councillors White of Wonastow, R Edwards of Rockfield, and Hacket Pain of Wyesham, who had wrestled long and quietly with all those confusing and tiresome questions about building on the flood plain, but they were quick to spot such a wizard idea, and just before Christmas, too

How clever of Councillor Greenland and head of planning George Ashworth; homes, dry for a thousand years. Why had no one thought of this solution before?

Liberal Democrats Hobson, Guppy and D Edwards, true to their radical and reforming party history, were keen to join in, showing their true colours, Yellow, isn't it? White and R Edwards returned to quietly counting sheep and knitting mufflers and Hacket Pain gallantly noted the need for no expense spared in providing local schools with portable buildings, if they ask for more. The vote was triumphantly carried, 21-20, and the spirit of Dickens hummed through the Conservative ranks. Done it. Phew. Anyone for a humbug?

Only councillors Hayward and Wintle worried about the price that would have to be paid, but the answer was simple. 'Monmouth, simples'.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.

Michael Jones

(Monmouth)