CENSUS RETURNS.

Otago Witness, Issue 3764, 4 May 1926, Page 8

CENSUS RETURNS.

MINISTER’S SATISFACTION WELLINGTON, March 28. _ The Hon. R. F. Bollard stated this evening that preliminary census returns showed an increase in population in one or two districts, and a decrease in others. The increases were in the Norsewood town district, 23! Cobden, 77; and Johnsonville 175. The decreases were Palmerston North, 7; Featherston, 27; Greytown, 80; and Havelock North, 126. From now until the returns have been completed progress reports will be published. Mr Bollard made reference to the accuracy Gf the public in filling in their census papers, and to the assistance the press had given in publishing explanations of the problems presented the citizens. “There is no doubt.” he said, “that the press has risen magnificently to the occasion, and has very materially helped to rouse the attention of the people to a sense of their duty in supplying the particulars required. The Government statistician is also satisfied from personal observation, and his observation is sup>ported by information received from the enumerators at the various centres, that the people themselves have generally s wn a keen desire to comply with the requirements. Many have gone to a great deal of trouble and have shown anxiety to do the right thing.”