DISCUSSION IN THE HOUSE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22392, 13 October 1934, Page 3

DISCUSSION IN THE HOUSE

MEMBERS GRATIFIED. (Fbom Oub Paruamentab? Repobteb.) WELLINGTON, October 12. The statement on Galatea Estate was discussed in the House of Representatives this morning when the Lands for Settlement Estimates were being considered. Several members expressed their gratification at the promising nature of the settlement, and the Minister of Lands was congratulated on his foresight. Mr W. J. Broadfoot said that Galatea could be made into a wonderful settlement. He did not think enough credit had been extended to the officers of the department who were doing developmental work in land settlement. The accommodation provided, on small farms was good, and the problem of disposing of the produce was a passing phase. Mr W. J. Poison complimented the Minister on the purchase of-Galatea, and said the success of the venture was assured. The land had been picked up at the price of £4 an acre. Mr Clyde Carr said he had been told that 50 per cent, of the Galatea Estate was volcanic . ash. Mr Ransom: It is all the better for that. Mr Broadfoot: There are millions of acres of volcanic ash land being farmed. Mr A. E. Ansell said that despite what had been said to the contrary the national welfare depended on the development of land. There was little doubt that a success could bo made of the settlement of small holdings. The Minister said that unfortunately it was not always possible to buy land at a price that would make it suitable for settlement, but that the country could go a long way towards overcoming the unemployment problem by placing men on the land.