TIMBER INTERESTS.

Waikato Times, Volume 100, Issue 16750, 17 March 1926, Page 6

TIMBER INTERESTS.

BIG CONFERENCE IN HAMILTON. "CALAMITY FACING INDUSTRY." A big meeting of sawmlllers, representing practically all .the milling interests of the North Island, was held in Hamilton yesterday. The meeting was not open to the press, but a Times representative was later provided with some information as to what had transpired. The main subject of discussion was the parlous condition of the industry

brought about by the Government's policy of restricting exports, while allowing the free importation of cedar and other foreign timbers. Another point about which dissatisfaction was freely expressed was the increased railway freights from inland sawmills lo flic port, recently imposed. It was pointed out that the importation or foreign timbers was increasing, and that unless relief was obtained by way of increased duties or a reduction of railway rates millers felt, that a calamity was facing the industry.

The question of the suggested institution by the Government of an industrial research department was touched upon, and the meeting resolved to support the Government in; the establishment of such a department In connection with the timber industry. Members generally expressed their willingness to pay a levy spread over the whole of the industry to support researches in timber.