50 
I would therefore suggest it would be an admirable thing if your 
Association would immediately set about framing an estimate to 
check the accuracy or otherwise of Sir John’s figures. This statement 
has alarmed those interested in the growing of rubber here and it 
being a matter of vital importance to know the approximate truth, 
(it is impossible to have extreme accuracy), I consider your 
Association is the channel from which an official estimate should 
emanate. Having all data at your disposal with regard to average 
yields pei acre, the acreages planted annually in preceding 3'ears and 
also being in a position to value the question of labor supply, and 
also that of tree resting as affecting output, I am satisfied the 
planting community and others interested would accept your figures 
before that of any other body or individual. 
Trusting your Association may see its way to carry out this 
proposal, 
I am, Sir, 
Your obedient servant, 
(Sd.) H. K. Rutherford. 
2088/1910. Kuala Lumpur, 25th November, 1910. 
Sir ’ — 1 have a letter from the Editor of the India Rubber 
Journal asking for the estimates of acreages under rubber in the 
F.M.S. and Straits Settlements, at the end of December this year. 
2. We have, of course, the figures for 1909 but I have no means 
of making an estimate for 1910, until our returns are in. I should be 
greatly obliged if you can give me any information or can suggest 
any means of getting it. 
I have the honor to be, 
Sir, 
Your obedient servant, 
(Sgd.) L. Lewton-Brain. 
The Secretary explains the difficulty experienced in the past in 
obtaining the said statistics and that all attempt was given up a few 
years ago, as it was realized that only Government had the necessary 
machinery to obtain sufficiently accurate returns. 
Resolved to instruct the Secretary to reply accordingly. 
11. LOCALLY RECRUITED LABOUR. 
The Secretary reads the following communication from the 
Negri Sembilan Planters’ Association : 
Secretary Seremban, 7th December, 1910. 
Planters’ Association of Malaya, 
Kuala Lumpur. 
D ? AR ^ IR ~ 1 be S to inform you that at the last Meeting of the 
Negri Sembilan Planters’ Association held on the 5th instant, the 
following Resolution Was unanimously carried : 
Proposed by Mr. Mansergh and seconded by Mr. Burgess. 
