SOCKBURN AERODROME

Hokitika Guardian, 15 May 1923, Page 3

SOCKBURN AERODROME

— • GOVERNMENT DECIDES TO PURCHASE. [by telechath —rKB tress association.] WELLINGTON, May 14. The Government lias decided to purchase at a valuation,- the land and buildings at Sockburn belonging to tlie Canterbury Aviation Company. It is understood that the valuation is now proceeding.

STATEMENT ON THE POSITION. CHRISTCHURCH. Alay 14. In connection with the purchase of the Sock burn Aerodrome by the Government, the chairman of directors of the Company, Hon H. F. Wigram, some time ago offered that if the Government would take over the assets and liabilities of the company and use tlie Sockhum aerodrome for the purpose for which it was erected, i. 0., the training of airmen and mechanics for the defence of- New Zealand, lie would subscribe £IO.OOO as a free gift in the reduction of the cost of the aerodrome B> the Government. Tlie company was formed in August- 1910, mid at its inception 20,000 shares were floated. The public were slow to subscribe the amount required, and in order to allow tne company to go ahead, Air AYigrmn gave a guarantee that lie would take up any shares not subscribed by a certain date. As a result of his offer lie had to put down .015,000. When a short time later another 10.000 shares were flouted he made a. similar offer, and took £7,500 worth. The company since its inception had trained 180 pilots during tlie war. and of these 170 were sent to England. When tlie Armistice was signed. Air AYigrmn approached the Defence Alinister, Sir .James Allen, on the question of whether the company should continue in existence or not. Sir James Allen urged the company to carry on stating that the Government would need their services in the fn-