THE CHINESE QUESTION.

Tuapeka Times, Volume III, Issue 190, 5 October 1871, Page 7

THE CHINESE QUESTION.

As there is great agitation at present on the above question, we would offer a suggestion, whicli, if practicable, would turn the present evil into a blessing, especially to those who, if the present increased immigration of the "Heathen Chinee" is to continue, will be the greatest sufferers, namely, the miners of this province. The formation of Mining Associations, if entered into with spirit and energy, may, to a certain extent, alleviate the evil ; but we think a greater remedy is in their hands, which, if properly applied, would confer a direct benefit to themselves and the country at large. Let them but unite, for unity, they must remember, is strength. They would then be in a position to make capital out of John's labour. Our suggestion is, the formation of companies in. each, and every locality, of say 25 miners, (more if practicable) ; five of the same to take up and bring to bear all available water on payable auriferous ground. The cost of maintenance, tools, <fee, to be defrayed by the 20, the five to supply labour only.' At the completion of same, each to have an equal share ; then employ Chinese labour, for if that were generally done, they could be had for from £1 to £1 5s a week^-the attraction would then be gone, and we would not need any poll tax to keep them from flocking to our shores, One thing we know is wanting to make" the idea a suicess, and that is European miners should get their provisions, tools, and clothes, at a cheap rate. We are prepared to supply the same cheaper than ever. Remember Cox Bros., Melbourne House, Waipori, who brought the prices of provisions, &c, down fully 40 per cent., and intend keeping them so as long as they get supported.—{Advertisement, j