M.P.'S ON TOUR.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 39, 15 February 1929, Page 5

M.P.'S ON TOUR.

DEPUTATION AT PUTARURU.

STATE LOANS TOR FARMERS

BOARD OF INQUIRY URGED.

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.)

PUTARURU, this day.

The eight members of Parliament who yesterday commenced a tour of inspection of the country north of Taupo were met with a request from the Putaruru Chamber of Commerce and other local bodies for a public inquh-y into the reasons why settlers in the Putarura district are not granted State advances for agricultural development.

A cordial reception was given by Mr. J. T. Anderson, chairman of the Matarnata County Council and other residents to the visiting party, which was composed of the following members: Messrs. •T. A. Young, W. Lee Martin, W. E. Parry, H. G. R. Mason, C. H. Clinkard, F. Lye, A. Harris and A. W. Hall.

Mr. G. G. Griffiths, chairman of the Putaruru Town Board, said that anyone who had land south of Putaruru had the utmost difficulty in eecuring State advances, although the applicant might have ample security. He gave several instances where settlers had made frequent applications for loans and had had their requests rejected. The country had been condemned by State officials, and in spite of successful results the land was still on the black list. Another serious matter was that fires were denuding the bush. One area of 1000 acres was bought by the Railway Department 12 years ago for £27,000 and the bush had been greatly damaged by fire, one block of 300 acres being reduced to 30 acres.

Replying to questions Mr. Griffith said that up to 12 years ago the State had lost heavily on loans. Xow applicants were sometimes offered one-fourth of what they asked.

After others had spoken a friendly discussion took place as to what would be the best form of inquiry.

The suggestion was made by Mr. Parry that in the inquiry all political parties should be represented, and that an independent chairman should guide the deliberations.

Mr. Griffiths concurred and said that while State officials might give evidence

they should not sit on the board of inquiry.

Mr. Lee Martin expressed the opinion that a solution of the unemployment problem would be found in the development of the Tokoroa district. To-day the party is visiting Lichflcld, Tokoroa and Ongaroto.