PHOSPHATE ROCK

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 150, 21 March 1921, Page 8

PHOSPHATE ROCK

FIRST SHIPMENT FROM NAURU ISLAND THE COST TO THE FARMERS In answering a question put by Mr. n. Poland (Ohinemuri) in the House of Representatives on Saturday, the Prime Minister gave some Interesting information regarding the supply and treatment of Nauru Island phosphate rock. Ho said New Zealand took over its share in the Nauru Island and Ocean Island on January 1 last, and the first cargo under the new agreement had already arrived here. Arrangements had been made for the delivery of about 70,000 tons during tho year to tho manufacturers in this country. There was going to bo a tremendous demand for tho phosphates, and from a financial and commercial point of view the purchase of the islands would be a very satisfactory speculation indeed. A certain quantity of 'phosphates had been sold to other countries. At one time he thought the output of phosphate would be too great, but ho saw now that we should not be able to supply the full outside demand. Mr. Massey added that Britain had not sold its interests in tho islands, but only its output. Not only was ho satisfied that New Zealand's investment was a really good one, but he was also satisfied that we were going to got all the phosphates we required from the two islands and at a reasonable price. The phosphate rock would be landed in New Zealand at £i ss. per ton. Most of it would be ground fine and used in that form, but he thought the supplies must eventually bo made into superphosphates. Tho cost of grinding the rock would be about 12s. fid. per ton, and if they added another 10s. per ton they could get an idea of what the cost to the farmer would be. Mr. I'orbes (Hurunui): What about the South Island? To whom, will it go there ? Mr. Massey: In the first instance, to Wright, Stephenson, and Co. and Kempthorne, Presser, and Co. Quite a number of people are building big works. Mr. Luke (Wellington North): You want one in Wellington. Mr. Massey: I know we do, and if firms here do not undertake to establish one it mnv be necessary for the Government to do so. Wo have already secured an excellent site. Mr. T. W. Rhodes (Thames): Arc the Government going to control the supply? Mr. Massey: In the- meantime they will mH to those who have the plant to deal with it. Mr. Rhodes: Will you see that the price is reasonable? Mr. Massey: Yes we are seeing to that. The whole thing should be in full swing in another twelve months. Mr. Malcolm (Clutha): Will steps be taken to prevent their establishing a monopoly and charging unfair prices? Mr. Mxissey: "It will not be possible to establish « monopoly, because we have the supply and can t control it.' The Prime Minister added that any person who could crush the phosphate would be able to get a supply of the crude rock.