Developmental Policy For N

N. Guinea and Papua

THE Minister in charge of Australia’s Pacific Territories, Senator Sir George Pearce, returned from Papua and New 'Guinea in September; and, on September 19, he said he had submitted to Cabinet •a report outlining a policy of development Tor Papua and New Guinea. It is under stood his proposals include; Control of Aviation—For the good of the country better regulation of air services was needed. Competition, at present, was unrestricted. Air transport might open up new country and provide a direct service to Australia.

Oil prospecting—Grants of rights over larger areas would encourage bigger efforts by prospecting interests.

Encouragement of companies to provide better shipping services.

Increased assistance for the rubber in dustry.

An inquiry into the copra industry, with a view to considering the position of purchase of expropriated plantations.

Promotion of Australian trade in the territories, including the question of pre ference to Australian goods in the New Guinea tariff.

The development in Australia of mar kets for the produce of the territories.

An inquiry into the value and possi bilities of the forestry products.

Rev. P. Clark, of Western Australia, who has been undergoing training at the George Brown Missionary College, N.S.W., left Sydney for New Guinea on September 12. He will be stationed at the Methodist Mission, Rabaul, New Britain.