CONTROL OF THE FOREST.

Auckland Star, Volume LII, Issue 279, 23 November 1921, Page 8

CONTROL OF THE FOREST.

BILL BEFORE THE HOUSE. PRINCIPLES WELCOMED. OBy Telegraph—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, Tuesday. In moving the second reading of the Forestry Bill in the House to-night, the Hon. D. H. Guthrie said he proposed to ask that the bill be read a second time pro forma, and referred to the Lands Committee and Native Affairs Committee, both of which were concerned with the lands affected. He explained that the State Fore-st Service would consist of the Minister as Commissioner of State Forests, a director of forestry and an assistant-director, with a secretary and conservators, rangers and such other officers as may be necessary. There would be an Advisory Board, comprising, besides the director and secretary, representatives of the employers and workers in the sawmilling industry, and the , distributors of forest produce; also representatives of associations interested in forestry, with a professor of forestry at the University, who would advice on the scientilic side. Mr. Guthrie added that Sir Francis Bell had promised that if any vital* changes were thought necessary they could be considered by a joint committee of both Houses. Mr. T. E. Y. Seddon (Westland) eaid the bill was an excellent one, but bristled with difficulties. Ho asked for a definite statement as to the cite of the proposed School of Forestry. Mr. H. E. Holland (Buller) "said lie considered forests should be put completely under the Forestry Department. Mr. E. P. Hudson (Motuoka) supported the bill. It was a matter for regret that it had not been introduced years before. Mr. W. A. Veitch (Wanganui) urged the establishment of a nursery in the neighbourhood of the Tongariro Park, preparatory to the re-planting of the region of the Upper Wanganui. At a late hour the Minister briefly replied. He made it clear that there would be ample opportunity for future consideration of the bill and its amendment. J The second reading was then agreed to on the voices.