DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE

Oamaru Mail, Volume XLIX, Issue 13812, 17 July 1919, Page 5

DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE

Per Press Association'. TIMARTJ, July 3(1 A conference of delegates of the .South Island Development Leagues was held here to-day. Present: Mr' J. (.'raigie, Mr J. Anstey, Mr A. Nosworihv, Mr E. P. Loe, Mr li. Holland M.P \s., also eight local League members, three- from .(>n)i;irii. and three l'roin Dunedin. The morning session was occupied with .addresses by the--president (MrJ. Craigie) and the Hon. G. W. Bussell. The latter contrasted the progress of the North as against the South Island, in population, capital value, and number of holdings. Tlie explanation was dairying, which implied small holdings, closer population. lie recommended the encouragement of this industry, and also favoured reviving the former ten-acre village settlement system, supplying rural labour when needed, and giving men a start on tha land. Whatever Government was in power, it must develop the hydropower, and take the responsibility of the coal industry, spend more on education, and pay increasing, attention to health. The Conference has numerous remits to consider, and is still sitting.