South African Tobacco To Replace Rhodesian

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30916, 24 November 1965, Page 22

South African Tobacco To Replace Rhodesian

(New Zealand Press Association) AUCKLAND, Nov. 23. South African tobacco would be imported to replace Rhodesian tobacco for blending in New Zealand cigarettes, the chairman of directors of Rothman (New Zealand), Ltd., Mr B. W. Lindeman, said tonight.

Stocks of Rhodesian tobacco held in New Zealand would last about a year, he said.

At the end of that time South African tobacco, identical in price, type and quality, would be used. "The only reason we buy tobacco from Rhodesia is that up till now she has been a member of the Commonwealth,” Mr Lindeman said. “Naturally we prefer to trade within the Commonwealth.” If the embargo was later

lifted, but Rhodesia stayed outside the Commonwealth, tobacco might be bought from South Africa in any case, he said. If Rhodesia returned “to the fold,” however, normal marketing would continue. “The effect on the ordinary smoker will be nil,” Mr Lindeman said. “Our only cause for concern is that we have stocks of tobacco that we have already purchased in the sheds at Rhodesia and we will not be allowed to bring it into the country. We are hoping that the Government will sell it elsewhere.” A spokesman for W. D. and

H. O. Wills (N.Z.), Ltd., said the effect on the New Zealand tobacco smoker would be little because of the small amounts of Rhodesian tobacco used in cigarettes here. New Zealand tobacco companies usually kept ample stocks of Rhodesian tobacco on hand, so the effect of the embargo would not be felt for some time.

More New Zealand tobacco would probably be used to replace the Rhodesian in blending. Providing the smokers enjoyed this blend. New Zealand tobacco could be used permanently if the embargo was later lifted.