THE PORTFOLIO OF MINES

Kumara Times, Issue 2634, 14 February 1885, Page 3

THE PORTFOLIO OF MINES

In an article commenting upon a paragraph . which appeared in our Thursday’s issue relative to the portfolio of Mines, the Grey River Argus remarks:—

It is only in accordance with the fitness of things, besides being the most politic thing to do—as is reported Government intend doing—to give the portfolio of Minister of Mines to a goldfields member. Rumour has it that a West Coast member will prob- - ably meet with preference, Mr Cad man being for some reason considered now out of the question. In that case everything points to Mr Seddon as the coming man. It is well known that last session he was kept out of the office only by the exigencies of Government at a trying time when all sorts of wirepulling was going on. Richard took a plunge on that occasion. But although he missed his mark he soon got over his chagrin and gave the Government all the support he could. This looked like an implied understanding between them that he would not be forgotten. Well, a great deal worse might be done than to appoint Mr Seddon Minister of Mines. He possesses all the qualities required. He understands mining in practice and theory. As a working miner, as an advocate of miners in the public courts, and as representative of miners in Parliament, he has learned to become conversant with the goldmining industry in all its bearings; and he knows exactly what miners complain of and the best way to remedy their grievances and develop the industry. The next most eligible member for the position is Mr Guinness, but politically he has less claim to the position than the member for Kumara, and therefore need not be considered.

But if the genial Richard achieved' the distinction, which he is generally credited with being ambitions of, it would not prove a bed of roses by any means. The miners would surely look to him to give them all that he has so long been accustomed to tell them with much vehemence they ought to get. The Kumara miners would count upon cheaper water and more tail-race accommodation. If Richard John could have his own way he would give them all they want. But his colleagues, a depleted treasury, and the exigencies of the country would form a very heavy drag to keep him back, and give him his first lesson in actual administration. Nor would it be at all surprising if the effusive and somewhat loquacious Richard learned to appreciate the tactics of. a Rolleston or an Oliver. Time will tell.