NELSON CONGRATULATED

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 923, 17 March 1930, Page 11

NELSON CONGRATULATED

MINISTER OPENS A. AND P. SHOW “IN SPITE OF DIFFICULTIES” Press Association KELSON, Today. The Hon. G. W. Forbes, Minister of Lands, who was enthusiastically welcomed when he opened the Murchison Agricultural and Pastoral Show on Saturday, complimented the people upon their decision to hold the show this year, notwithstanding all their difficulties. Ttf% Minister felt sure they had derived much encouragement from the assistance that the people of the Dominion had given during their time of trial. It was always heartening to know in time of trouble or distress that others were ready to lend a helping hand. He realised it would be impossible to restore completely the damage done; and where there had been bereavement through the earthquake* tho loss could never bo compensated for. 1 On his way up he had noticed the railway works in progress. Sir Joseph Ward, being a business man, had recognised that disconnected lines were of little benefit, and it was only by opening up those sections and completing the through line that they could bo made to pay. He gave an assurance that during the coming winter the number of men employed on these works would be considerably increased. Mr. Forbes again complimented the people and the show officials on their decision to carry on which, he said, was typical of the best British spirit today. The Minister was accorded a civic reception by a large gathering at Motueka. Later he visited fruit and tobacco farms. He is returning to Wellington this evening.