THE PREMIER ON TOUR.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIII, Issue 9141, 9 May 1908, Page 5

THE PREMIER ON TOUR.

ELECTRICAL POWER.

AN IMPORTANT STATEMENT,?

Per Press Association. Hokitika, May 8, At Eimu a very large gathering of miners were assembled who brought before the Premier the necessity of granting the application of a syndicate for 150 Government heads of water from the Toaroha Canyon, with a view of developing electric power and the supply of water for Rimu Elat, and adjoining terraces, Yery strong _ representations were made on this subject, and it was pointed out that the granting of thisapplication meant .the opening up of very extensive and hitherto unworkable areas whitsh had proved highly paayble, but so far unworkable owing to the difficulty of getting water at a sufficient altitude.

In reply, the Premier said the promise made by the Mines Department to have the scheme reported on by experts would be carried out. The former policy of the Government was to retain control of the available water porver for electric purposes, but this was found impracticable owing to the enormous amount involved. Legislation would be introduced next session giving the Government power to lease the water rights to companies with proper safeguards. Sir Joseph considered the matter introduced by the deputation as one of vital importance to the Dominion, and he was glad to expound the views of the Government thereon: