THE MINING INDUSTRY

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIV, Issue 238, 6 April 1912, Page 5

THE MINING INDUSTRY

THE MINISTER'S INTENTION,

By Telejrapk— Trua Aaswiaiit*. Christchurch, April 5. The Hon. J. Colvhi, Minister oif Mines, arrived here from Wellington to-day, en route for the West Coas't. Asked regarding his views on the political situation, Mr. Colvin remarked that he had little to say. He believed that the Mackenzie Ministry .would prove equal to the task of retaining office, despite the anticipations of some that the contrary would be the case. He thought the Ministry rwa» one of .the best thaft| thte' Domiinkm had/ ever had, and was Bi strong one from a debating, as well a 6 from an administrative, point of view. Personally, Mr. Colvin said that his own interest® .were bound up im the mining industry, and be had! a great deal of sympathy ifor that industry, which he considered Was one of the best colonisers in the world. All his life he had been either engaged in mining or in business connected with the industry. He recognised that he had a hard uphill clim'b in following his predecessor. Mr. R. McKenssie, but he intended exerting his utmost endeavors to push ahead the mining industry in all its phases*— gold, coal, and oil. He hoped to be able ■on bis present trip to the coast to visit tbe State coal mines jit Ilunanga and Sedd'onville, and in different mining centres. Asked if there were any recent developments in connection with the Kotukoi oil-fields, Mr. Colvin replied that he possessed no official information, but he learned 'from a- ,7en'tleman who recently visited the field that tJhe prospect's were improving. Mr. Colvin will leave by the Cass train to-morrow morning for the West Coast. <_