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Hokitika Guardian, 14 July 1926, Page 2

IJjfEMrnoYMENT is beginning to make itself felt along the Coast, and in our own district there are indications that stringent times are ahead. Last week one large milling firm put off nearly a score of men, while cither mills are compelled also to shorten hands. Nor is it a passing or seasonal phase, so far as sawmilling is concerned. From all accounts it is a definite slump, with no signs of immediate recovery. The market is overcatered for by reason of the overplus of mills. And the market is a circumscrilced one by reason of the Government authorities limiting export. The market overseas like the internal market is being affected by the import of foreign timbers, and it is impossible for the New Zealand commodity at the present cost of production to stand up to the rival timbers from elsewhere. It is a serious matter for the community to find stagnation creeping into the principal source of employment, and production in the district, and the general business man, if he is not feeling the pinch already will scon realise what is happening by the lessened sum in general circulation. The position is one which involves all, for prosperity rests on profitable employment being well sustained. When trade is being so generally curtailed, it follows there is an adverse condition created. There is not any concerted effort to stem th flood of trouble. The position is being accepted, and all are waiting for something to happen to foster trade. While there is such a doleful side to the sawmilling outlook, the prospect for primary products on which much of the local trade and intercourse depends, is nene too bright. Prices have declined, and there is not any immediate sign of an early rise. Returns from the land and pastoral pursuits must therefore be at a reduced amount, a fact which will add to the difficulties of the situation. There are sure to be some lean months in consequence. and prewarned all concerned should he all the more watchful of the general situation and prospects.