INDUSTRIES ON WEST COAST

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27498, 4 November 1954, Page 16

INDUSTRIES ON WEST COAST

OVERSEAS FINANCE DISCUSSED

REPLIES TO PROGRESS LEAGUE INQUIRIES American finance might be available for the development of industries on the West Coast, it was reported to the monthly meeting of the Westland District Progress League. Some time ago the league wrote to the Trade Commissioners for the United States and the United Kingdom, pointing out the potentialities for industries on the West Coast. A letter was received in reply from Mr Philip C. Habib, the second secretary at the American Embassy, that there were a number of American Government agencies that could assist overseas organisations seeking American investments in industry. Through direct contact with suitable concerns and through widespread publicity in official journals, the agencies were able to make known the possibility for investment in other countries, he said. Mr Habib thought that it would be best for the league to work through these agencies. He suggested that the league send a comprehensive survey of the resources of the West Coast to the American Embassy in Wellington. The Embassy would give the league every assistance and would discuss the proposal with the New Zealand Government departments concerned. A reply from the senior Trade Commissioner for the United Kingdom in New Zealand, Mr R. B. Willmot, suggested that the league contact the New Zealand Manufacturers’ Federation, which would be able to advise of any New Zealand manufacturers who were going to extend their existing plants. Before any United Kingdom firms could be interested in such a proposition. it would be necessary that information be supplied on the type and quantity of coal on the West Coast. Information was sought on the employment statistics on the West Coast and the number of workers, both male and female, available for factory The president, Mr F. F. Boustridge, said the proposal opened up a big subject. The establishment of secondary industries would be most beneficial to the West Coast. A decision was reached to defer the matter for further discussion at a combined meeting of the Westland District, Hokitika, jßuller, and Inangahua Leagues to be held at Punakaiki on November 21.