TARIFF COMMISSION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 53, Issue 285, 13 September 1933, Page 3

TARIFF COMMISSION.

EKCLISH MANUFACTURES. (Special to the "Guardian.") DUNBDIN, September 12. "Because of the long-distance British manufacturers are from their customers, they take liberties that would not be tolerated if taken by a local manufacturer, such as the substitution of poor designs and colours, where better ones were selected and ordered. The quantity and quality of down is not up to sample, and there is a leakage of down through the coverings, the finish being of poor quality. If wo took kali the liberties that some British manufacturers take under these headings, we would very soon be told about it.". This indictment of a certain class ot British down quilt- manufacturers was made by Mr Roland Ellis, managing director of Ellis and Co., when he gave evidence before the Tariff Commission in support of a request that the present duty of 20 per cent, on quilts should be retained. Joseph Irving, representing J. and J. Irving, of Kenniugton, Invercargill, asked that tho present tariff of 20 per cent, on billhooks, slashers, bush knives, etc., be maintained, and if possible increased. If tho duty were taken off, the firm would hayo to close down, as it could not compete against the English market. It had made as many as 350 dozen knives of all kinds in a season.

The Tariff Commission heard evidence to-day in support of the maintenance of the present, duties on gas cooking appliances and coal ranges.