The Land Question.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 7846, 12 September 1904, Page 7

The Land Question.

|TO THE EDITOR, j Jfa Sir,—As the land tenure seems to be burning question of the day, a few remarks may not be out of place. _ I think a good and practical way to find out whether Crown tenants wish for the freehold would be to try them by giving them the option of doing so. There need be no loss of revenue, as some of the M.'sH.lt. seem to think there would be, but there should be an increase if the proceeds were placed to the account of the Advance to Settlers Office. The interest would be 4i- or 5 per cent.

instead of only 4 per cent, for the lease in

perpetuity. This brings us to the point that seems to have been lost sight of by the clever ones who framed these 999

years' leases. That is, that the unearned increment is lost to the people of the Colony for 999 years—that is, if the Government keep good faith with holders of the long leases and let their rent stand as it is. Now, I contend that if these holdings were freehold, this unearned increment would be in circulation instead of being locked up, making a bone of contention. I think this is a

•matter our town and city cousins should

join us in, and say, let everything be free Jatd make the most of it, and not lock up for our descendents in a thousand years' time to have a good spree on. But the thought of it—999 years—gives an air of ridiculousness to the whole concern. There is a lot more

that could be said on the subject, but space will not permit; but lam sure, if anyone will look the thing in the face .and think, " locked up for 999 years," they will agree it is a good long time. Thanking you in anticipation, —I am, etc., Looking Forward. Mauriceville, 9th September.