W. Samoa Plans 11 Projects

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30687, 1 March 1965, Page 3

W. Samoa Plans 11 Projects

(Special Correspondent N.Z.P.A.) APIA, February 28. In a radio speech last night the Minister of Finance and Economic Development (Mr F. D. Betham) outlined 11 major projects as part of the 1965 development plan.

First priority is given to the development of 6000 acres at Asau under a land settlement scheme in lots of 20 acres.

Second priority is the development of a 100-room Government tourist hotel in Apia, together with active promotion of tourism and joining the Pacific Area Travel Association.

Other projects include the establishment of a handicrafts industry on an organised basis and an incentive scheme to encourage increased agricultural production.

Trade With New Zealand It is also intended to establish a trade development office in New Zealand which takes 41 per cent of Samoa’s expoorts. “Without additional funds accruing from recent increases in income tax and import duties, the development efforts which are so vital to the progress of Western Samoa would not be possible,” said Mr Betham. He said that development this year was aimed at increasing job and income opportunities. Approval for these plans was expected to be sought

from Parliament when it met next week.

A protest march against the high cost of living resulting from increased customs duty is still scheduled to converge on Parliament next Tuesday morring.