EXPORTS FROM BRITAIN.

Press, Volume LIV, Issue 16397, 17 December 1918, Page 6

EXPORTS FROM BRITAIN.

RELAXATION OF CONTROL.

(special to "the press.")

WELLINGTON. December 16

The Minister in Charge of Munitions and Supplies has received advice from the Imperial authorities, that in view of the relaxation of the control formerly exercised over various materials, tho Ministry of Munitions in the United Kingdom considers it no longer necessary tor Mr Myers to comment on indentors' orders before they are sent to exporters in the United Kingdom. This advice has been confirmed by a cablegram received from the High Commissioner, London, which reads as follows :—

"Immediately following the signing of the armistice, restrictions on export were greatly relaxed, and many articles transferred from prohibited lists to free lists, and further relaxations may be expected from time to time, as stocks of raw materials and the labour situation approach normal. lam informed by the Ministry of Munitions that need for certification of orders by local priority authorities no longer exists, as, generally speaking, manufacturers are at liberty to proceed without priority permits. "I am desired to conycy to you a very cordial expression of Mr Churchill's thanks for the most valuable assistance rendered by the Department and Committee. May Ibe permitted to add that the success which has resulted was largely due to tho highly efficient manner in which matters wero conducted from your end. The volume of work has been enormous, and many difficult situations havo frequently arisen, thereby greatly retarding my activities. Please accept my assurance that no effort has been spared to safeguard New Zealand's interests. "'lt will be necessary to continue operations hero for some time to come, to ensure that important machinery and materials for national and essential industries are suitably graded, and firms here acting for New Zealand importers have been invited to bring to my notice any difficulties they experience, and I am assured of the co-operation of the Ministry of Munitions in all such cases. I will be glad to receive advice of any matters of importance you desire pressed.'' The Minister stated, in regard to the last paragraph of this cablegram, that if he could be of any assistance in this connexion he would be pleased to take action on receipt of particulars from the parties concerned. ' . ... "It is interesting to note, ' said the Minister, "that since the permit procedure has been in force 8100 applications, representing goods to the value of £3.213.000 have been dealt with by the Department." •