11

S.—so

be produced than if cut into the usual sizes of boards, as only an average of 30 per cent, of flitches can be obtained, against 70 per cent, if cutrinto boards. I have, &c, Robt. P. Gibbons, Hon. C. H. Mills, Minister of Trade and Customs. Of Kopu, Thames.

Sir,— Wellington, 26th October, 1901. Referring to our conversation this morning, I am of opinion that all kauri over 16 in. by 16 in., and all white-pine over 10 in. by 10 in. ought to be classed as logs. As to white-pine, should the Federal tariff continue as it is, and sizes from 7 in. by 2f in. (or its equivalent) up to 10 in. by 10 in. (or its equivalent) be allowed to be exported free, I shall be compelled to take the boardcutting machinery from my various mills in New Zealand, and erect it in different places in Australia. I consider that an export duty of Is. 6d. should be imposed on those sizes, and that all sizes under 7 in. by 2-J- in. should go out free. I have, &c, Robt. P. Gibbons, Hon. C. H. Mills. Of Kopu, Thames.

Rt. Hon. R. J. Seddon, Wellington. Invercargill, 16th October, 1901. In the event of Federal tariff as outlined in cables in regard timber being adopted, Southland Sawmillers' Union would respectfully urge upon Government desirability of imposing a sufficiently high export duty on balk timber to secure from Commonwealth just treatment for New Zealand. If the tariff proposals become law it will mean that New Zealand will be denuding her forests for the benefit of Australia without securing any compensating advantage. Arthur A. Paape, Secretary.

The Premier, Wellington. Aratapu, 15th October, 1901. Strongly urge export duty balk timber and flitches, counteract Federal tariff attempt to draw millhands to Australia. A foreman here already received offer to move to Sydney. J. Stallworthy, President, Auckland Timber-workers' Union.

Rt. Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Greymouth, 16th October, 1901. At meeting of Timber Company held this day, it was resolved that, our interests being small compared with North Island in the matter of white-pine supply to Australasia, we will leave the matter in your hands and the North Island millers, knowing you will do everything necessary to conserve our interests. Our opinion is that whatever duty is charged will fall on the consumer in Australia, but would suggest that contracts already entered into be exempt, if possible. Thanking you very much for your invitation. Timber Company.

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