HON. T. MACKENZIE INTERVIEWED.

Otago Witness, Issue 2861, 13 January 1909, Page 36

HON. T. MACKENZIE INTERVIEWED.

(FXOM OCR OWN COBRE9PONDENT.) CHRISTCHURCH, January 6. The Hon. T. Mackenzie passed through Christchurch to-night, on his way to Wellington, in response to a message which he received yesterday. He said that the lirst intimation he had of his appointment was in the evening newspapers. " Regarding the departments I have taken over." Mr Mackenzie remarked, " I cannot say very much at this stage. I have, as is generally known, been very closely associated with our commerce, especially in connection with agricultural interests*. You may remember that last May I took up the* question of the- fall in the values of -wool, and expressed an entirely contrary opinion to those who at that time predicted a •dismal future for the pastoral product. The forecast which I gave last May has, I am glad to say, been verified. I have perfect confidence in the future of our wool values. " In regard to the frozen meat industry, I took the responsibility of forecasting its continued prosperity about fivo years ago. when a many people thought that values weie going' to fall. Our Trade Commissioner (Mr Cameron) came out from Home, and made a big investigation into the matter, and out Commerce Committee arrived at totally different conclusions to those he'd by our Home people. Again that came out all right. I have held the position of chairman of the Industries and Commerce Committees in Parliament for a good many years." Speaking of the Tourist Department, Mr Mackenzie said that he had always taken a very keen interest in the scenic grandeur of* New Zealand. He thought it might safely be said that he should see that* the veiy best wes assured to us at the least possible cost. | As to the Foiebtry Department, he had ! taken a lifelong interest in the conservation of our forests. Mr Mackenzie stated incidentally that he would probably change his place of lesidence to Wellington, but he had not made any definite decision on that point.