THE PROGRESS OF TIMARU.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 3016, 27 November 1882, Page 3

THE PROGRESS OF TIMARU.

[To the Editor.] Sib, —In your issue of the 24th inst., you have an excellent article on the most important matter which can effect the future welfare of Timuru. You advance the question why we do not establish manufactories,as elsewhere. In short, you ask a reply. In my opinion there are two causes which operate to retard all progress in manufacturing in Timaru—First: Bents, rates and taxes for premises to carry on the works would bo so excessively high, that it would be only working to meet expenses. This may be seen from the fact that every nutshell of trading premises costs more here than premises tun times the size in London. There are no premises in this town where industries cm be successfully carried on, little shops and big rents stand in the way, and offer no inducement to capital and industry. Second :Theindifferenceof the mass of people, the want of consideration bow best to improve theii own interests by unity of action, to consume the fruits or each other’s industry. Live and let live, by finding work for all, is the only hope for Timaru. Apathy is too plainly seen in all things concerning our best interests, and not until too late, do we seek a remedy. A short review of the prosperity of America, will servo as an example, which we would do well to follow. In the year 1863 an average duty of 75 per cent was placed on all manufactured goods imported into America, (for the special purpose of keeping them out), and it had that effect. That noble man. President Lincoln, saw the need of finding work for the great tide of immigration, and no matter how many go there, there is work for all, made sure by keeping shop goods out. The statesmen ofAtneriea were wise to see that labor required legislative protection, in order to establish « powerful and prosperous nation. That tliiu labor. protection policy is wise, may be / seen from the fact that it has secured results so beneficial to mankind. It has attracted millions of England’s boat

artizans, and ever since, muscle and brain continue to flow to that generous country, which gives to industry protection as its reward. An examination of the internal condition of America will suffice to prove that with the growth of indu-lry Her power and wealth have so increased as to be a worthy example for New Zealand, and, if there is any vitality left, Timarn will do well to lead the way.—l am, &c., G. Kimbeb.