CEMENT SHORTAGE

Waikato Times, Volume 106, Issue 22648, 29 June 1945, Page 2

CEMENT SHORTAGE

REPRESENTATIONS MADE HAMILTON PUBLIC MEETING At a well-attended meeting of building sub-contractors and other members of the public in Hamilton last night the current cement shortage was discussed and several resolutions passed. Mr E. L. W T atkins presided and gave details of the priorities in cement operating at the present time. The question was discussed at length and the constructive suggestions made are to be forwarded to the Government. It was also decided to wire Mrs H. C. Ross, M.P. for Hamilton, requesting her support in the matter.

The following resolutions were passed:— “That in view of the serious effect on industry generally caused by the cement shortage, and the certainty of serious unemployment if it continues, the attention of the Government be drawn to the position in the mines in connection with the shortage of truckers, and that steps be taken by the Manpower authorities to direct truckers to the mines. Ships to Cross the Bar

“That there be urged upon the Government the need for securing vessels of small draught to operate successfully over the Westport bar, similar to the motor vessel ‘Tauranga.’

“That the Minister of Railways be urged to utilise the West CoastChristchurch railway and thus expedite the delivery of coal to Lyttleton and so on to Auckland.”

Various suggestions for improving the position were made, one being that Hamilton tradesmen should have representation on the committee set up in Auckland to ration supplies and another that efforts should be made to approach the Miners’ Union with a view to ascertaining if supplies from the mines could possibly be expedited. The following sub-committee was set up to investigate the position further and report to a later meeting: Messrs S. Stewart, A. Bridges, T. C. Galloway, H. C. M. Norris, C. D. Cook and E. L. Watkins.