RISE IN SEA FREIGHTS

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27664, 21 May 1955, Page 6

RISE IN SEA FREIGHTS

Government Asks For Delay FULL DISCUSSION REQUESTED (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, May 20. The Government has decided to ask shipping companies to defer any increase in freight rates between Britain and New Zealand until there has been an opportunity for a full discussion on the whole question. This was announced by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr K. J. Holyoake) this evening. “In view of the effect of higher freight rates on New Zealand’s economy, it that there should be frank discussions in New Zealand before any final decision is taken,” said the Minister. New Zealand’s High Commissioner in London (Mr T. C. Webb) had been asked, said Mr Holyoake, to convey to the shipping companies the Government’s concern at the impact of the proposed freight increases on the net earnings of exports and oh the cost of living in the Dominion. “It is hoped that an early conference can be arranged in New Zealand, perhaps, in the latter part of Jude, when the shipping companies’ case for a rise in both inward and outward freight rates can be discussed with the Government and with other interested parties in New Zealand,” Mr Holyoake said. “In the meantime, the Government is consulting with the major producers’ boards, the Associated Chambers of Commerce, and the Manufacturers’ Federation.”

The shipping companies propose to increase freights from Britain to New Zealand on July 1, and those from New Zealand to Britain on October 1.