MUST NOT BE CUT

Hokitika Guardian, 28 September 1932, Page 6

MUST NOT BE CUT

'■'TIMB FR)IIM^m(UKESERVES; AV EDDINGTON, September 27. Scenic reserves will not be sacrificed by permitting timber to be cut to relieve un.eifiployniqn.t.ry**T3iiis';, statement of policy is contained in the'annual report of the Scenery Preservation Board which was presented to Parliament this afternoon by the Hon E. A. Ransom, Minister in Charge of Scenery Preservation. ’

“The existing demand for white pirtO directed the attention of millers u> stands of this clqk's of timber situated on scenic reserves, and a number of inquiries for milling rights were received, particularly in Westland, states Mr W. Robertson, Under-Secretary for Lands in his report. “All inquirers were notified that the granting of millings rights could not be considered. “The tendency to stress the position of unemployed timber workers was noted in connection with these applications. The linfortunate condition of these Workers is to be deplored, hut ii must be made clear that the department, in its position as trustee for the preservation of the Dominion is scenic areas, could not possibly admit any argument on the lines, that the exigencies of the unemployment situation could justify in any way the sacrifice of reserves. 'Many- applications for mining privileges in ’-scenic reserves were dealt with. during the year and consent (was given in several eases,f subject to special conditions, providing for the preservation of Hush. The Department was seriously concerned at the possibility of more or less serious damage resulting from prospecting and other mining operations and the whole position was being carefully watched.”