THE STATE COAL MINE.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 12 September 1901, Page 4

THE STATE COAL MINE.

Why Government should possess the Point Elizabeth Coal Measures.

(To the Editor.)

Sie, —I have read, with some interest the various reasons adduced in the local press why Government should possess and open up the Point Elizabeth coal measures, and construct a port at the Point in preference to opening up a coal mine elsewhere. I think, however, the strongest reason has been lost sight of. Government have taken possession of and > are working the Midland railway in the 1 4icection of Christchurch, so far as com-

pleted, and are also proceeding at a snail's pace with the work of further construction, Some day it is possible that this work will be finished, and Christchurch and Greymouth brought into direct communication. In that case the Point Elizabeth mine would prove an extremely valuable asset to the Government. There is, however, a stronger and more cogent reason why the Government should own this mine and push on the construction of the railway with all possible speed, and that is the value it would possess for strategic purposes. Coal now is the great factor for warlike purposes, and coating stations are of the utmost importance. Admitting that Government in its wisdom should think fit to open up a mine at Westport—in case of war with a great Power the only get-away for coal would be by sea. and an adverse nation could easily blockade that port by mejans of a gunboat and thus prevent any coal supplies leaving. The same could be said of Greymouth. It', however, the railway was completed and the Government owned the Point Elizabeth mine, an inexhaustible supply could be forwarded overland to Lyttelton, which in all probability would become one of the great coaling stations of the British fleet in these waters, thus rendering supplies by sea unnecessary and preventing any risks of blockade. Such a thing as a coal famine or of insufficient supply for war or mercantile purposes would thus be obviated. In a matter ot this nature the Government could depend upon the support of the Canterbury and the majority of members of the House. Before the Government decide upon such a step as opening up a State coal mine all the probabilities should be studied. I am, etc., —

W. F. A. Grcymoutli, September 10th, 1901.