A SUGAR REFINERY.

Evening Star, Issue 3369, 6 December 1873, Page 2

A SUGAR REFINERY.

This morning a deputation of gentlemen, consisting of Messrs J. Davie, M. P.C., Lar* uach, Sc iular, Sise, J. 11. Baxter, Anderson, and R. Wilson, waited upon the Superintendent.—Mr Davie explained that the deputation was from the promoters of the proposed sugar refinery in Dunedin, who wished to ascertain from his Honor how far he and his Executive could see their way towards placing on theuext Estimates a sum. in the shape of a bonus, orsuch other inducement, as might suggest itself, for the proposed new industry. They had also reason to know that perhaps no man in the Colony had more information on the subject of sugar refining and the cultivation of beet root than bis Honor, and the promoters desired that he would place at their disposal such documentary evidence as he possessed.—His Honor replied that some years ago he did have a good deal of information on the subject collected, but he could not lay his hands upon it at this moment; in fact, the matter had escaped his memory. It was six years since he went into the matter very enthusiastically, and imported direct from Germany a quantity of Silesian seed, which was distributed among agriculturists here, and grown with highly satisfactory results. He had no doubt the produce of that seed was still grown in different parts of the Province. In fact the only objection was that it was too large rooted ; it seems that smaller roots are bettor, as they contain more sap. But the result of the experiment was to show that the Province was admirably suited to the growth of beet—probably no part of th world more so. He would endeavor to lay his hands upon the information he then collected. Amongst other things be got particulars of a very large manufactory—one of the largest in existence-near Berlin. The whole thing was gone into, and it was shown that the profit from the refuse alone, which was used for cattle food, was considerable. With regard to the question of bonus, be thought it was one which the Province was justified iu entertaining to some extent. He thought the Provincial Council at one time offered a bonus. However, he would lay the matter before the Executive, with a view to soliciting a vote next session. His Honor further suggested that the bonus might take the form of a grant of reclaimed land as a factory site.—Mr Davie said that was a suggestion the deputation was prepared to make ; and it was mentioned that at least one and a-half acres would be required,— His Honor : That would be to L 12,000. —The deputation then withdrew.