POLITICAL

Hokitika Guardian, 18 November 1931, Page 5

POLITICAL

HON. D. JONES’ ADDRESS.

A TONE OF OPTIMISM.

(By Telegraph—Per Press Association)

ASHBURTON, Nov. 18

Hon. D. Jones, Minister for Agriculture, who addressed a large meeting last night’ said that Coalition sought the approval of what had been done, and to mandate for measures .required by the continually changing times.

No precise or fixed policy was possible After tracing thei hktory of the formation of the Coalition, Mr Jtyies said the Government, in less than two months, showed a saving of about L 1,000,000 compared with the main Budget. It was necessary for such economy to continue. AVith regard to unemployment, the recent drop in the registrations showed the good effect of the Government policy. A forward move had been made in land settlement work, proceeding on areas totalling 70,000 acres. Of this, 30,000 acres were to be developed. About seven hundred men were being engaged on road making, and clearing, and cultivating the areas now developing. It was estimated to provide 250 holdings, practically all to be devoted, to dairying. Air Jones expressed the opinion that the development of. secondary Industries on sound lines was of great importance.

The revival of gold mining was ft promising way of, utilising the unemployed, and the recent move in tho Thames district was regarded by the authorities ns the best effort for 15 years.

Every endeavour was being made to foster and use New Zealand coal by large consumers, who were responding well to hi s appeal. Compulsory reduction of interest is deemed practicable, and probably no legislation ill the world was equal to the Atortgagor’s Relief Act for assisting farmers. The subsidy on fertilisers also greatly assisted production A vote of thanks and confidence was carried by acclamation. .