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11.
We suggest the following remedies:-
The present system to be abolished. Full and free right to be given to any person or persons to quarry stone and open quarries on any approved sites. Licences to be granted by the Crown to such persons and a Royalty to be paid to the Government on all stone sold.
12.
The system herein proposed is that which obtains in quarry work in Cornwall, Aberdeen & elsewhere & it has been found to meet all requirements. The Crown would appoint Officers to measure the output of stone, issue permits for removal, and collect Royalties. The cost of this administration would not be heavy.
As an alternative the Government could issue licences on payment of an annual fee. Taxation could be provided for by an assessment of the quarry by the Government Assessor.
In new quarries one year should be allowed free of assessment for the purpose of opening out & development. The working accounts could be opened to the inspection of the Assessor wherever necessary.
13.
The existing quarries should be put up separately and all quarries should be leased for a period sufficiently long to enable them to be worked on a proper system, and to warrant the putting down of efficient plant say 20 years.
14.
The export of stone would under the system suggested become practicable. It would constitute a new development in the industry and form an increased source of revenue to the Government.
15.
If the stone were freely quarried the construction of works in the Colony would be much facilitated, the costs...