MINISTER OF LANDS.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 February 1921, Page 4

MINISTER OF LANDS.

BRIEF VISIT TO WAITARA. WELCOMED BY EX-SOLDIERS : TOUR OF WAITOMO ELECTORATE. (From Our Special Reporter.) Waitara, Last Night. The Hon. D. H. Guthrie, Minister for Lands and Repatriation, who is to make, a tour of the Waitomo electorate, arrived here from Masterton to-night, and was met by Mr. W, T. Jennings, M.P., and the Mayor (Mr. R. Morgan). During the evening, Mr. Pigott, chairman of the Clifton County Council, interyiewed the Minister asking his approval of the transfer of unexpended bridge moneys totalling £l7OO to other bridges in the county requiring immediate attention. Mr. Guthrie replied that in his opinion the transfer could not be made without legislation, but he wduld look carefully into the position on his return to Wellington. This was the only deputation requiring the Minister’s attention. The Minister paid a visit to the new Soldiers’ Club, which is to be officially opened shortly, and was welcomed by Mr. J. Parry (president) and the Mayor. In reply, Mr. Guthrie expressed appreciation of the splendid efforts of the New Zealand soldiers during the war, and stated that all the citizens could do could never compensate them for the sacrifices made. The time might come when the clubs would not be further required, but at present it was good to have a place where the returned men could gather for social purposes. He had always been keen to do his best for soldiers and he was glad to see the interest local people were taking in the men. He Wished the club all success in the future. The Minister leaves to-morrow morning in company with Mr. Jennings and Mr. G. H. Bullard (Commissioner of Crown Lands) en route to the Mokau. He will make a trip up the river and inspect the soldiers’ settlement and meet deputations. He will also inspect part of the Manga-Awakino block of land which comprises 16,000 acres native lease, which it is proposed to open for settlement if arrangements can be made. To-morrow night will be spent at Awakino.