Report “May Not Have Answers”

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31109, 12 July 1966, Page 1

Report “May Not Have Answers”

(From Our Own Reporter)

WELLINGTON, July 11.

A report on the viability of the South Island Fertiliser Company has been received by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr Taiboys), but it will be some days before he is prepared to comment on it.

The report came to Mr Talboys through the Meat Board which received a letter from him a fortnight ago asking that the economic nature of the enterprise be proved as quickly as possible. The Government’s attitude

is still firmly the same as that expressed last August in the resolution adopted by the electoral colleges of the Meat and Wool Boards and Federated Farmers concerning the use of funds from the Meat Industry Reserve Account for the establishment of the works.

The resolution approved the use of the funds, provided producers’ support was forthcoming, and the project could operate successfully on a competitive price basis.

The farmers in the area have indicated that the first proviso can be met. The Government still has doubts about the second, hence the report Mr Taiboys has just received.

Though Mr Taiboys declined to comment on the report, it has been indicated elsewhere that it may not contain all the answers required, and that further examination may be necessary before an answer either way is given. This could take up to a week to produce. Until then, it is unlikely the proposal will be taken before the Cabinet.