HON. J. G. COATES.

Hokitika Guardian, 25 May 1920, Page 4

HON. J. G. COATES.

/ . . (Per Press Association.) BLENHEIM, May 24. The Hon. Mr Coates arrived in Blenheim to-night, aud was received by the Mayor v. and councillors. He received deputations in regard to hydro-electri-city, continuous telephone service, Blen lieiin Road ,Blenheim to West Coast, and the completion of the South Island ■trunk railway. Mr Coateß, in reply, said the time had come to face the problems they had to fa 66 in a business-like way. One difficulty was the question of labour, which lie was sure would be overcome, hut a greater difficulty was the question of material. Again the methods of the past were out of date. Tilings had to be tackled in a new order and a new way to-day. It was not wise to use a man where they could use machinery. It was necessary to get money, though that was not his job. For all works asked it was impossible to get the necessary equipment and material. Large orders had already been given so that when work was gone into, they wouldhave the stuff to do work with. His in. tention was to impress on the Government that the important work'should be done, and an endeavour made to carry; out plans in the best and most economical way. As to the question of hydroelectric power, the engineer wotild come into the district in September. In regard to ‘the West Coast road, he said lie would have a report made by his engineers. He would also get a report in regard to a continuous telephone service. He wouldn’t make promises about the South Island Trunk Line, it was very desirable they should have it completed. In accordance with the importance, of the works they would be placed on the list that he would place before Cabinet and they would be judged on. their merits. What they akned at was the opening up of the country to settlers, which was a most important thing to consider. The Soutli Island Main Trunk would have his most careful consideration. He emphasised that the Public Works Department wanted to he in touch with the various local bodies of the country, and wanted to have their confidence and they would liave the department’s confidence. He had a scheme to settle tho vexed question of main roads. There were different conditions in different districts. If they were going to encourage production they would have to give transport facilities, and his scheme had in view tho bringing about of a better understanding in regard to these matters with various local bodies.