CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

Auckland Star, Volume LVIII, Issue 87, 13 April 1927, Page 4

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

MONTHLY COUNCIL MEETING

THE TIMBER PROBLEM

The monthly meeting of the council ot the Auckland Chamber of Commerce was held yesterday. There was a full attendance, and the president, Mr. A. G. Lunn. occupied the chair. Messrs. R. A. Abbott aud C. E. Clinlcard. M.8.E., representing respectively the Auckland Institute of Architects and the Auckland Retail Drapers' Association, were welcomed by the president as members of the council. A number of new members were elected, and several resignations were accepted. A report was received from a sub-com-mittee on the question of unemployment. This had been prepared at the request of the executive of the Associated Chambers of Commerce. It was decided to discuss the report in camera.

The chairman brought up the question I of the timber industry. He stated that the executive had come to the conclusion that urgent action was called for. He therefore moved:—"That in view of the fact that the only element in the cost of living which is increasing under present conditions is housing costs, and that any increased protection granted to the local timber industry is likely to be further reflected in an increase in the cost of living, this council commends to the earnest consideration of the Auckland City Council the present parlous condition of the New Zealand timber trade, and suggests that the difficulties under which that trade at present labours may be largely obviated by the permission for use in weather boarding above the plinth of seasoned clean 0.8. rimu, seasoned clean 0.8. totara, and seasoned medium kauri."

After a full discussion the resolution was agreed to, with the addition of a proviso suggested by the Institute of Architects stipulating that the Sawmillers' Association should insist upon the proper grading of timbers sent out, and also exercise the utmost care in regard to timber being properly seasoned.