LOCAL AND GENERAL.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16625, 6 January 1922, Page 6

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

The Hon G. J. Anderson, in Christchurch last night, stated that if time is available this session he will deal with several Bills connected with his Departments, Labour and Mines. He proposes to amend tho Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act in departmental particulars, and to amend both the Mines Act and the Coal Mines Act. Mr H. G. Ell told a “ Star ” reporter yesterday that complaints had been made to him that the Summit Road at Mount Cavendish, at the head of the Heathcote Valley, was in a dangerous state. A man was sent and repairs effected, and the road is now in good order for pedestrians. Mr Ell also said that a rank growth of thistles had covered tho track at Ahuriri Bush, Cooper’s Knobs. A man was sent out and the growth removed, the track being clear again for walking. The work was all done by the Summit Road League. The closing of tho Avonhead experimental poultry farm has been the subject* of protest by the Canterbury Egg Circle, which has sent a letter to Dr Thacker, M.P., asking him to taka steps to have the farm continued. The letter points out that when the Burnham poultry farm was closed Mr Massey promised that Canterbury should have an experimental farm; that tho Avondale farm could be made selfsupporting if run on commercial lines; that it was peculiarly suited for tho training of returned soldiers, and that should Milton and Avonhead be closed the South Island will be left without a demonstration farm. The whole of one man’s time ha? been taken up in the Christchurch Gardens for the last fortnight in watering lawns, and even shrubs growing under big trees. Mr James Young, tUo curator, states that the past fortnight has been the driest in his experience in Christchurch, the absence of rain being intensified by a very dry atmosphere. Nevertheless the front lawn of the gardens is in good condition, and Mr Young says that the next rains will restore the gardens fairly well. At present the flower beds are a riot of colour, and in the rose garden tho second blooms are coming on. and will be at their best in about a fortnight’s time. A photograph to send each of your friends is the best way to solve the gift problem. Let Steffano Webb take it. Peterson’s Buildings, High Street. Telephone 1089. 1513