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Hokitika Guardian, 29 June 1933, Page 4

Although Hen. J. Bitchener is new to Ministerial office, Jie has not been long in learning his lesson, and at the interviews with tlx© local bodies last evening, he was as circumspect as the most experienced of Ministers. However, Mr Bitchener was not unfair in his remarks. Many of the matters mentioned were outside his direct sphere of influence, and some presented entirely new features for his informa--ion and consideration. Ho admitted that in a etudy of the district plans that day he had his vision enlarged as to the extent of “Westland, and he realised its needs would be considerable. He as Minister of Public Works had his hands tied owing to lack of funds, and it was a case of cutting and pruning to make the money go as far as possible. He gave some hope of Fox river bridge being attempted in this financial year—at all events it is not to be lost sight cf. Now that Otago is agitating for tho road at the Haast Pass end, Westland must be equally up and doing to see that the western section of the extension is not lost sight of. Generally, regarding roading Mr Bitchener gave a very fair reply, and with the Member of Westland alert, and the good offices of the District Engineer in support, the district should net he short in its share of the public works funds. The information given by Mr Murdoch in regard tc the prospects of the mining scheme outlined at Blue Spur, and the news communicated by Mr Warren of Whangarei as to the extensions of his form in milling operations at Inter Wanganui, must have impressed the Minister with the knowledge that this was not a- decadent part of the Dominion, hut at present in new mining ventures, and in the saw milling industry there was an activity which promised an era of prosperity. It is for the Government to do its part to aid the enterprises. Much can be done in reasonably way to helo the water race project. For the milling, roading is necessary for access, and in both instances new townships will be established. The tide is turning to the flood, and it is for the Government to join hands with the people, •ind give Westland that lift towards orosperity which is hound up in the orooosils so clear!v put before the visiting Hon. Minister