BIGGER POPULATION NEEDED

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 54, 26 November 1938, Page 13

BIGGER POPULATION NEEDED

Future Of New Zealand

IN TEN YEARS DEATHS MAY

EXCEED BIRTHS

"Other parts of the Eniphe ate now taking active steps to scctne migrants. 11 New Zealand does not move at once the time may quickly arrive when peoples of our 'own stock will not be available, said the president, Air. David Hogg, at the annual meeting of the United Kingdom Manufacturers and NewZealand Representatives Association, which was held in Wellington yesterday.

Mr. Hogg said the question of peopling the Dominions and colonies with British stock was at present engaging the attention of a strong body of men in the United Kingdom—men ot vision who had been moved to action by patriotic ideals. It must be clear to all that such procedure would make for strengthening the Empire as a whole, promote trade and, last but not least, give to tbe more scattered units of Empire a stronger defence brought about by increased man-power. “How does this affect this .Dominion,” continued Mr. Hogg. “At present our population is stagnant, and if existing conditions continue, it is estimated that in 10 years’ time our deaths will exceed our births. _ There seems good evidence that migrants could bo secured at very small cost to the Dominion. This country has spent great sums to provide social services, such as railways, roadways, electric power and schools. The burden of interest on such capital outlay now falls on but few shoulders, whereas, with increased population, this taxation would be spread.

“It is estimated that existing facilities are sufficient to carry much more population than they are now doing. At the moment the subject of defence is occupying the attention of. many thoughtful people, but in reality , this question of increased population is of even more moment than defence, because. without increased man-power, we arc unable adequately to defend ourselves. “The benefits to this country of increased population of our own stock would be: 1. Stronger defence. 2. Reduced taxation per capita. 3. Increased trade, internally and externally. 4. Balanced economy, by increased internal consumption.”