HON. MR. MILLAR AT THAMES.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume L, Issue 59, 4 May 1907, Page 2

HON. MR. MILLAR AT THAMES.

LOCAL HATTERS AXD HALF HOLIDAY QUESTION.

Per Press Association. Thames, Muv 3.

lion. Mr. Millar arrived lit the Thames to-day, and met several deputations, the most important being in connection with the silting of the Ohineniuri ltiver as a result of milling operations; and a deputation regarding the operation of the Factories' Act. Regarding the former, Mr. Millar said the matter was one of importance, and he fully recognised the gravity of the situation. As Minister for Marine, he was determined that any property under his charge should not be damaged if ins voice in the Cabinet could stop it. It was a hard problem to nolve. He had great sympathy with the river settlers and others who had sullered, and promised .to assist in every way that lay in his power. Regarding the enforcement of the Factories' Act, which matter affected other parts of New Zealand, butchers employed at intervals at making small goods were more shop assistants than factory employees, and therefore not compelled to take Saturday as the holiday, but can take a day fixed upon localiv as the half-holiday. The Minister promised to bring Hie matter before Parliament, and endeavor to secure an amendment, so as to exempt small boroughs, where the conditions were different from the provisions of the Act having special application to large cities.