MINISTERIAL VISIT

Hokitika Guardian, 23 April 1929, Page 6

MINISTERIAL VISIT

HON W. B. TAVERNER, Minister of Railways, Forestry, Customs and Publicity.

The Hon W. B. Taverner with liis party which included the General Manager of New Zealand Railways (Mr Sterling) and the Director of Forestry (Mr Turner) arrived here yesterday, and were welcomed on arrival by the .Mayor (Mr Perry) and Hon Mr .Michel. Rater Mr O’Brien, AI.P., arrived by train and welcomed the visitors. There was a gathering at the County Chambers shortly alter 8 o’clock last evening, when a iorniul welcome was extended to the Hon Alinister. Mr O’Brien Al.i’. introduced the several gentlemen present, and on beJialf of the electorate welcomed Air Taverner to Hokitika and wished him a pleasant tour of the district. Other speakers were Air G. A. Perry (.Mayor), lion H. L. Aliehel AI.L.C., Air E. A. Wells (County Chairman), Dr E. Teiclielmann (Progress League) and Air D. J. Evans (County Clerk). In the course of the remarks reference was made to several matters to which it was desired to direct the Alinistcr’s attention, including the extension of the railway in accordance with statutory provision; a revised railway timetable between Greymouth and Hokitika for faster running, earlier arrival by train for travellers Irom Christchurch; co-ordination between Publicity and Tourist Departments in regard to improved access to resorts about South Westland; consideration of the local hollies’ claim lor revision of the position in regard to timber royalties revenue, and some satisfaction in respect to the past requests for an adjustment of revenue in accordance with Loth law and equity. The Hon. W. B. Taverner, in reply, thanked the gentlemen for their cordial welcome, and apologised for the short notice of the present visit. It was intended as a flying visit to see the country and ascertain an idea of its wants in relation to other parts. He hoped at no distant date following the session of Parliament to return again and in a more leisurely trip see further into the problem and possibilities of the electorate, and the ambitions of its citizens. He was grateful for the kindly thought in not pressing many matters upon him until he had had ; n opportunity of seeing the district for himself. As Alinister of Forestry he was glad to come into contact with them, and would he pleased to help where he could. His services were at their disposal. It was a large Department and becoming more and more important as the resources were lapped. He found the work of absorbing interest, and knew mat the industry was of vast moment to the district. At the moment lie was not prepared to discuss the royalties question. He was fully aware timber was the cTnef asset of the district, and when the local bodies put forward their case for consideration he would go fully into the matter.

He knew trains had been running late. The difficulties in the way were many and various. The extraordinary growth of goods traffic of late was in

a great measure responsible. That cause was at least satisfactory, for ii indicated the progress and development of the district. Ihe General Alanagci and liis transport officers were fully alive to the position, and were doin', all they could to solve it. Personally he wanted the public to work with the railways and the railways would work with them. All suggestions should he brought before the General Ala linger, and would have the fullest consideration.

Regarding.tourist tracks mentioned lie would have pleasure in making representations in that collection. The touris ttraffic was growing rapidly. The railways were lining utilised more now. and they would be interested to hyar that the past two months was a record for traffic in the history of the railways. The increase in goods traffic now being captured hv. the railways was likely to go a long way in solving the railway traffic problem in no uncertain way. Tf would certainly give a good basis for action.

In respect to publicity, the Coast would receive a air share of attention, and it was doing that now. ’Hie Department was concerned chiefly in,attracting overseas traffic, but the scope of the work was limited by the funds available. Last year £30.00!) had beep spent, and this year £30,000 was estimated for requirement’s. It was the desire to spend the money in the most effective way. The difficulty was in seeing the results. He knew they had scenic attractions in the .country which were unrivalled. He hoped to keep in touch with the district so that they could work hand-iii-liaiid. The desire of the Government was to work with the' people all the time. The Ministers had been moving about on various duties to make themselves familiar with the problems of the country. They were not afraid to make decisions oil large questions, and would have it to the people filially to judge their wisdom, in such matters. They were working sincerely for the good of the whole country, and no government could have a higher ideal than to see the position of the people bettered and the industries of the country advanced to the best effect.