DISTRIBUTION OF CEMENT.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 July 1920, Page 2

DISTRIBUTION OF CEMENT.

POWERS OF LOCAL BODIES. , AN EXPLANATION. It appears that a little misunderstanding is prevalent about the control of cement supplies, in connection with the powers delegated to local bodies, as distinct from the cement distribution committees, recently inaugurated under tha auspices of the Board. A telegram was this week despatched by Ml'. C. A. Wilkinson (chairman of the Taranaki Cement Distribution Committee) to- the Board of Trade in regard to, the powers delegated to local bodies, and lie has received the following reply: "Pqwers delegated to local authorities have reference only to the issue of permits for the erection of dwellings and essential farm buildings. These powers do not affect in any way the duties undertaken by cement distribution committees which the Board desire to continue operations as,in the past." (Signed), Collins, Secretary, Board of Trade. The position then" is that while the local bodies will consider the giving of permits for work in their respective districts, a permit holder will still have to apply to the Distribution Committee (through any agent) for his quota of cement. In asking the borough and county councils to undertake control of permits the Board seems to' have been actuated by (the idea that with the local knowledge possessed by the councils they are best fitted to'look after this part of the operations. Sanitary works do not require a permit.