Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 13 January 1927, Page 2

Tjie agitation initiated by the Westland County Council in relation to tbo non-ratino of standing timber promist's to have good effect ior the local bodies (and incidentally the ratepayers) in the end. When last year a clause was inserted in a bill before the House exempting local rating in respect to timber areas, the local bodies stood to lose a very considerable sum. The Westland County when it sized up the position lost no time in making representations on the matter, and had ready co-operation from other quarters when it was realised what the effect of the legislation would be on local body revenue. The amendment was averted by continuing tbo former rating system for a year io give time to consider the general position. Since then the local County Council has circularised all local bodies the revenue of which was to be affected, and the result is a general demand for redress. The matter lias been gone into very closely in different districts. The other day we published the report of a conference of County Councils at Hamilton where the matter was wejl thrashed out, and stops are to be taken to probe the position further. To-day the report of an interview of the Clutlia County Council with the Minister of Lands, is published. This is particularly illuminating and shows that the Hon. McLeod lias a clear grasp of the niceties of the position. Ms proposes a quid pro quo which should give relief more or less adequate. We should say that the suggested royalty to the local bodies would be very acceptable to the 'Westland County whore there is such a vast store of timber. It. would be an acceptable substitute for the rating, even though the subsidy is paid only once, and not continuously as is the ease with the rates, ft is at least satisi'.clory that a member of ,he F.-d-inet realises the obligations of "lie Government in the mailer. It simplifies the position at the outset. It is now a matter for C abinet to agree to a ease: of an adjustment, which while it will safeguard Lho ratonnyers as a whole, "ill not do any injustice to the millers— who have their difficult ies. But if 'is manifest the claims of the local bodies on behalf of the general public are o.iraminiiit, and should have the 'first consideration. Thai policy Mr McLeod is now committed to.