UNIVERSITY AT ILAM

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28835, 4 March 1959, Page 7

UNIVERSITY AT ILAM

Deputation On Boiler Fuel

Representing the Ram action committee, a three-man deputation met the Prime Minister (Mr Nash) last evening and got a promise that he would discuss with the Minister of Works (Mr Watt) the opposition being shown by nearby residents to a proposal to install a coal-fired boiler at the new university at Ram. Mr Nash saw the deputation fox 10 minutes, between other engagements. The deputation comprised the action committee chairman (Mr I. Densem), Mr G. Halliburton, and Mr R. H. Bell. They were introduced to the Prime Minister by Mr M, A. Connelly, member of Parliament for Riccarton. Mr BeU told Mr Nash that the deputation represented a large number of electors all of whom lived within half a mile of the proposed site for the new university. Protest Meeting

“The residents met at a protest meeting and in spite of the eloquence of the Government spokesman (Mr Connelly) at that meeting and the assurance of the Minister of Works, the residents remain unanimous in their condemnation of the use of coal or oil as fuel for a boiler In the centre of a clean air suburb.” he said. Mr Bell said the use of coal or oil was quite unrealistic and private enterprise would not be per. mitted to use such a fuel in the area. “We would not like you to underestimate the determination of residents in their 'opposition to the proposal. The residents by resolution have deputed us to convey to-J'Ou their strongest protest and to request that the Government give urgent consideration to alternative means of heating,” Mr Bell said.