RIVER POLLUTION

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVI, Issue 8181, 24 July 1912, Page 1

RIVER POLLUTION

PREMIER APPEALED TO.

DAIRYING AND FLAX INTERESTS AFFECTED. PRESS ASSOCIATION. PALMERSTON,. July 23. The river pollution crisis, as affect. Ing dairy and flaxmilling, factories, was brought to a head this morning by a large deputation which waited on the Prime Minister. Mr ‘D. Biiick, M.P., introduced the deputation. Mr Broad, actingpresident of the New Zealand Flaxmillers-’ Association, drew the Premier’s attention to the recent decision of the Chief Justice (Sir Robert Stout), and the effect it would have. Millers asked for legislation—somewhat similar regulations could ho applied to flaxmilling as applied to mining—or else legislation passed to enable them to continue milling with the use of-rivers under strict Government supervision. There were 23,000 acres of flax in the district, which would bo almost useless if flaxmilling were to cease. Of New Zealand’s total output of flax the Manawatu district provided S 5 per cent. The question was a national one, not in any sense local. ■ , , Mr F. J. Nathan stated the case for the dairy factories, and read letters from the Cheltenham, Ballanco, Kairanga, and other factories. The Premier, in reply, said that he would - consult the Attorney-General and see if it was possible to do justice both, to ownets. of river bank property and millers; - The deputation could rely on tho Government doing its duty.