Economic Future

Dutch N. Guinea’s Economic Future

ACCORDING to leading Dutch newspapers, measures will be taken soon in Netherlands New Guinea to lower the cost of living.

The Governor, Dr. Jan van Baal (who is at present in The Hague) has held conferences on import and excise duties, price pegging, and wages.

Dr. van Baal stated that the high cost of living in Netherlands New Guinea is appalling. He said “some thing must be done in this respect and I can assure you that the best part of my stay at present is being given to this problem.” Workers in the Territory should be able to make a decent living. Only thus could something be built up in the area.

Dr. van Baal said he was be wildered by the rapidly growing in terest in New Guinea. This was welcomed, but he warned against over-estimating the Territory. There are possibilities, he stated, but not all can be seen at once.

New Guinea is not a romantic country full of promises—instead, it is a challenge. It would not do to put millions in to New Guinea straight away. We must make a start on a modest scale which is economically warranted.

We should not make the mistake of seeing the Papuan simply as a wood-cutter or water-bearer. We must find a way in which he can become a part of the programme and, at the same time, maintain his independence.

Dr. van Baal discussed oppor tunities for the European industrial

ists in New Guinea. In his opinion,, they will mainly be occupied withj mining, forestry, sago-growing andl fishing. The chances for planters! are there, but less apparent. Hei does not wish to encourage pro posals in which the Government has; to supply all the capital and bear all the risks.