Proposal For Aluminium Plant In Christchurch

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32232, 26 February 1970, Page 12

Proposal For Aluminium Plant In Christchurch

Although the Melbourne office of Comalcb apparently has had no knowledge of any Christchurch liiterest in the siting of an aluminium semifabricating plant, the Canterbury Manufacturers’ Association has been discussing ths matter with ,New Zealand Aluminium Smelters, ' Ltd —the New Zealand Cbmalco company—since, the middle o' last year. , i The director of the Canter! bury Manufacturers.’ Association (Mr. R. T. Alston), said yesterday that definite proposals had been put, including the offer of a site with rail facilities. “We are very determined that the Cotnalco "aluminium semi-fabricating plant should be established in Christchurch and discussions have taken place between our senior vicepresident (Mr E, P. Chapman), and representatives of New Zealand Aluminium Smelters, Ltd,” said Mr Alston. “Many details, of course must remain confidential. “As well as suggesting, a site for this industry, we have approached the Government about the need fpr the-Indus-

try to be established here and possible ways the Government could assist,” said Mr Alston.

The Minister of Broadcasting arid Tourism (Mr Walker) had helped with the discussions, said Mr Alston. Mr Walker had met some of the company representatives and had inspected sites in Christchurch with them. Before the November election, Mr Walker put before the then Minister of Industries and Commerce (Mr Marshall), Some recommendations concerning ways the Government could assist in having the in dustry established in Christ ehuj-ch. “The next stage in our representations will be when Mr A. V. Lorch, managing director of Comalco’s metal group in Melbourne, visits Christchurch soon,” said Mr Alston. “I believe the work we have done, which has had to be on a confidential basis, will show the general public of Christchurch that we are strongly endeavouring to have this important industry established here,” said Mr Alston.