LAND POLICY

Hokitika Guardian, 22 December 1928, Page 6

LAND POLICY

VIEWS OF FION. G. W. FOKHES. WELLINGTON, December 21. The Minister of Lands, Hon. G. W. Forbes, interviewed to-dav, said in line with the vigorous policy in connection with the railways and State advances, was the prompt acceleration of land settlement. His intention was, when the holidays were over, to convene a conference of Commissioners of Crown lands to discuss with them the most effective means of bringing about a settlement of available lands fn the hands of the Crown. The question of abandoned farms would he thoroughly gone into and wherever necessary, values would he readjusted to make them attractive propositions. The possibility of developing public lands would ho examined with a view to profitable settlement. He intended to discuss the problems on the spot, and arrange if possible for the necessary development to he commenced promptly. This should enable employment to be found for a considerable number of men, and lieip to relieve the unemployment difficulty. In regard to the purchase of improved land for closer .settlement, he was instructing Ins officers throughout the dominion to furnish a report as to suitable land available. On receipt ol the information, measures would be taken to acquire areas in various parts of the Dominion Lo suit the demand for land of that description.