Planters’ Assn. Formed

In Bsi

SEVEN people attended a meeting in Honiara, BSI on March 21 and formed the Solomon Islands Planters’ and Commercial Association. Apologies were received from several others and it is believed that a number of planters who will give the association their support were prevented from attending by the prevailing transport difficulties of the Solomons.

Mr. R. C. Symes was elected president of the Association: and Messrs. J. C.

Hammett, L. F. Gill J. A. Johnstone, K.

H. D. Hay and Father Palmer of the R.

C. Mission become the committee. Hon. secretary and treasurer is Mr. R. G.

Hodge.

In order to obtain funds it was decided that all 'members who are producers or purchasers of copra pay 2/6 per ton levy; that all commercial companies not engaged in production or purchase of copra pay an annual subscription of £lO/10/- and private individuals who be come members, £5/5/- annually.

There are some funds in hand from the pre-war association. These are in the Commonwealth Bank in Australia.

Signatures of new office bearers are be ing forwarded to the Bank.

The objects of the association are “to represent and protect the interests of planters and commercial resources in BSIP and to ensure proper liaison and co-operation with the Government of BSIP in matters of importance to the welfare of all residents of the Protector ate.”