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Hokitika Guardian, 8 June 1917, Page 2

The Cliamber of Commerce is maintaining something more than a passing, interest in local matters. As way expected of the body, it is capable of doing good work where matters of local coneorn are affected. It took timely action in securing the r ester a-on of a through connection with tho North Island by the Lyttelton ferry service. Now it is turning its attention to the long delayed state-farm project and the tortoise-like action of the authorities in regard to establishing lime works. Now is the time to have the latter established, so that,the, farmers will have the commodity for this* season’s ploughing. If there is much more delay tho season will lie lost, am, another year, will be gone. This matter is held up awaiting the official analyses of some specimens sent from different localities. There is' very little scientific treatment required to analyse the stone sent away, and a' half a. day should suffico for a chemist, to make liis pronouncement—yet the time is now turning into months. This is too bad, but- it- is another example of departmental inefficiency delay of a more protracting character still marks the treatment of the state farm project. Since the question was taken up in wbat was considered an earnest, manner that is dating from the Minister’s promise to do the district a measure of justice, years have passed. This treatment, of a matter of vital importance to agricultural "developments is scandalous. and the local Chamber cannot be too insistent- in its request for something practical to follow all the promises anl reports that have been made on this long delayed matter.