ADVANCES TO WORKERS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 81867, 17 October 1906, Page 2

ADVANCES TO WORKERS.

CHEAP MONEY TO BUILD iIUiVIES. THE GOVERNMENT PROPOSALS). Per Press Association. Wellington, October 16. In the House this afternoon the Hon. the Premier moved the second .reading, explaining the provisions of the measure. He said the main fact was that the machinery of the Advances to Settlers Act was opened to all workers wanting to build houses for themselves, and in such a way as to progressive payments as would tillable smail men to contract to build them. The repayment might be at any time the borrower pleased, or it might be spread over 36 § years, which means repayment by sums comparatively small. Having explained the machinery clauses, he eoneluded by pointing out the importance and the liberal character of the measure.

Mr Maasey, agreed, and pointed out that he had in a recent debate this session suggested almost every clause of rhe Bill in a proposal which had been defeated. Mr Buddo claimed that he had suggested the lines of the Bill last year.

Mr Flatman made a similar claim, and hoped the Bill would be extended 10 rural workers.

Mr Baume congratulated all, the) men of suggestions, and thought the limit of earning ought to be raised to a year. Mr Sidcy, Mr Laurenson, and Mr Bennett, while cordially approving the Biil, thought the wage limit ought id be higher,

Mr Rhodes considered that provision should be made for enabling workers in the country to acquire substantial plots of land about their houses, so as to tide over the slack limes of the year.

Mr Fisher and Mr Barber urged raising- the limit of advance above .£350. as the Bi.l aimed at helping small men with large families, and on a basis of land bought out of their savings.

Mr J. Allen applauded the Bill, but suggested caution in adding to our obligations.

The Premier, in reply, pointed out that all the points recommended by the various speakers were all in 'he Government Advances lo Settlers Act, but he was pleased at the general appieciation the Bill had obtained, lie was not in favour of extending the provision of this measure, which is intended for people who cannot help themselves, to people who have every facility otherwise. Neither did he like to raise the limit of advance, ah that might unduly press on the usefulness of a limited, fund. The Bill was road a second time on the voices.