EGG MARKETING IN ASHBURTON

Press, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 27038, 13 May 1953, Page 11

EGG MARKETING IN ASHBURTON

SYSTEM EXAMINED BY COMMITTEE

FIRST VISIT TO SOUTH ISLAND CENTRE

Members of the National Egg Marketing Committee visited Ashburton yesterday to examine the egg marketing system. The committee is visiting egg marketing centres throughout New Zealand, and this is its first visit to a South Island centre. It will report on its findings to the New Zealand Poultry Board. Mr J I* Connell (Ashburton Poultry Farmers’ Trading Department) said the aim of his business was to give producers, consumers and distributors the best possible service. He deplored the lack of advertising of the meeting, and commented on the "shocking representation” present at the hearing. “We are always glad to hear suggestions for improvements,” he said. “We are aware that everything is not rosy in the poultry world, but we are doing our job in an honourable way. However, control is necessary.” He said the pay out for eggs had been reduced because many eggs had been turned over for pulping. “We have no specific complaints to make against the Ashburton Egg Floor,” said Mr M. G. K. Cowdrey, the Government representative on the committee. “We are merely seeking information as to whether the floor will continue or will be modified. Production 'here is far in excess of local requirements. but is the surplus sufficient to set up plant for a complete pulping programme?” “The fewer restrictions we have in the form of egg floors, the better,” said Mr D. G. Begley, of Hastings, a producers’ representative “It is obvious that if you have not got strong consumption areas, you are incurring a cost in getting the eggs to market.” The committee comprised Messrs G. L,. McLatchie, Oamaru (chairman), G. I. Plimmer, Auckland (producers’ representative), C. J. Bashford, Christchurch (producers’ representative), Cowdrey, Begley, and B. J. Waymouth, Wellington (secretary).