‘Encouragement’ For Lines

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32032, 5 July 1969, Page 1

‘Encouragement ’ For Lines

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, July 4. The British Conference Lines, which had done so much research on container services for the New Zealand trade, were pleased that the Government had given the green light for their earliest possible introduction, Mr D. I. Binnie, acting ehairman of the Overseas Shipowners’ Committee, said in Wellington today.

“Shipping companies involved . . . naturally looked for the widest possible support before embarking on a business project of such magnitude,” Mr Binnie said. “We regard the measure of Government support outlined today as practical encouragement to get on with what, after all, is a revolutionary shipping job. “United Kingdom principals of the four British lines in the New Zealand trade can now proceed confidently with orders for the necessary ships to commence their service in 1972. - “But before that time, as already announced, New Zealand will be serviced by British container ships lifting cargoes to and from the east coast of North America. This service will commence in March-April, 1971.” Mr Binnie said the shipping lines had indicated the necessity for continuing study and discussion of a number of points which would arise as container services w4re developed. “The important thing at the

moment is that we now have the go-ahead signal, and we will be going ahead as quickly as possible,” he said.