INDUSTRY'S NEED.

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 87, 12 April 1940, Page 6

INDUSTRY'S NEED.

IMPORTED MATERIALS

MANUFACTURERS' POSITION.

PRESSURE OF WAR ORDERS.

''Because of the increased demand for New Zealand manufactured goods, quotas of imported raw materials based on purchases in 1938 will be insufficient to meet requirements in the fourth licensing period," said Mr. W. J. Truscott, president of the Auckland Manufacturers' Association, to-day. He indicated that, in view of the position, appeals to the Government for increased quantities of materials would probably be numerous.

Manufacturers were now busy compiling figures before sending in their applications to the Customs Department, for fourth period licenses, he said, and they were concerned about the effect of the incrense in overseas prices upon their supplies in the near future. The rise in prices reduced the quantity of materials which could be purchased on a 1938 basis of funds. If this basis were adhered to manufacturers would be unable to maintain their output, and no margin would exist to meet the additional orders resulting from the curtailment of imports.

The situation was realised to some extent by the Government, he added, and Ministers desired to assist industry as far as funds would permit. The manufacturers in their representations had not yet encountered serious difficulty.

The sections of industry working at greatest pressure in Auckland are tliose engaged in the manufacture of uniforms, clothing and' boots for the army, and an accumulation in private ordere is reported a* a result of concentration upon military requirements. An acute shortage of skilled operatives exists, and it is felr in various quarters that some extension of honr* is essential to meet war demands.