Soldier Settlers.

Hokitika Guardian, 8 June 1922, Page 1

Soldier Settlers.

PLEA FOR- REVALUATION OF LAND. ' [bt telegraph— ter press association] i WELLINGTON, June 7. The Hon. D. 11. Guthrie, accompanied by Mr W. H. Field, M.P., and Air McClure (Commissioner of Crown Lands), paid a visit to Otaki and Levin, to attend to several matters in connection ‘with soldier settlement. After inspecting Pukenamu settlement, near Otaki, and dealing satisfactorily with a number of matters brought up by individual settlors, the Minister proceeded to Levin, where he was met by a large deputation representing, the whole of the soldier settlers in the district. The principal request made was for an amendment in the law to provide for an immediate revaluation of soldier sections, on the ground that such action would encourage tho men to persevere. Ur Cow (president of the h' ,! branch of theR.S.A. Air Alonck (Conn, tv Chairman), Air Mntheson (Mayor of oLvin), Air AfoLcary (Farmers’ Union) and others strongly supported the proposal. In reply, the Alinister pointed out that he had considered this matter very carfully, and that in hi s opinion, ample provision had boon made in tho meantime. Tho law already provided for a revaluation after a settler had been in occupation of his holding for three years, and, in the meantime he hid made provision, in cases where such action. was warranted, to postpone payment of rent for a period without charging interest on the amount postponed The Minister stressed the point that llio present was not a suitable time for the revaluation of rural lands. Prices of produce were fluctuating. and until they stabilised, fail basis of value could not he obtained. Ho promised to bring tho matter before the Cabinet, but bo could bold out no hope that tbo request for an immediate revaluation would be granted. Those who had already been in occupation of their sections for three years could make application for a revaluation to the Commissioner of Crown Lands in accordance with the Act.