COOK ISLANDS ORANGES

Press, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22142, 12 July 1937, Page 10

COOK ISLANDS ORANGES

NO PROFIT MADE BY GOVERNMENT MINISTER DEFENDS TRADING OPERATIONS ira»s» association tbi.eor*m.> WELLINGTON, July 11. Replying to the statement of a Wellington merchant, that the Government had made a proht of £28,000 foi the season on its trading in Cook island oranges, the Acting-Minister for External Affairs (the Hon F. Langstone) said on Saturday, that the allegation was utterly absurd. In fixing wholesale prices for sale to retailers the Government's object had been simply to cover the landed cost without making any profit for the Government. „ „ . "The landed cost of the fruit is approximately 15s a case on the wharf at Auckland, which makes practically no allowance for wastage or provision for eventualities of any sort," said Mr Langstone. "It will be noted also that for early shipments this season the cases used were those taken over from local trading concerns at a cost of more than 3s each. To the 15s a case must be added brokers commission in New Zealand, and the cost of transport from Auckland to southern centres. "Far from making a profit of from 3s 5d to 9s 5d a case, the operations of the Government have, up to date, resulted in a substantial loss. I think that present indications are that the scheme will eventually be successful but naturally in the first year, many difficulties arise. With the experience gained this year, however, I feel that we should in future be able to handle the fruit in a manner which will give the grower a reasonable return for his effort, and ensure that the purchaser in New Zealand will receive sound fruit at a reasonable price." APOLOGY. We sincerely apologise to the public that we must charge the Council rate of fares in the meantime until new fares are fixed, although we are the only ones who would not agree with them at the taxi conference held on Tuesday last, and we appeal to everyone to support the Gold Band Taxis, who have always fought to keep the fares down to a reasonable price 'Phone 33-477. Thank you.