‘Welcome statements’

Press, 2 June 1981, Page 13

‘Welcome statements’

, NZPA ‘ Washington The United States Secretary .of Agriculture (Mr John. Block! has made-the Reagan Administration’s most explicit statements yet in favour . of world-wide free trade in .primary products. They are statements that will be welcomed in. New Zealand, whose meat and dairy exports to the United States are under concerted ..attack.-.-, from protectionist forces in the United States Congress. . In a statement echoing the constant refrain of succes-

sive New Zealand governments. Mr Block said. “We believe that nations should co-operate in reducing trade barriers that work against the efficient production and distribution of farm products. “We are concerned about increasing protectionism in parts of the world and urge that all countries exercise yigijance to avoid measures that would hamper trade growth in the future.”

Mr Block made these comments in a speech to the World Food Council at Novi Sad, Yugoslavia, this week. He elaborated on this policy when talking to the Ameri"can Club ,in Brussels yesterday.' In Novi Sad, Mr Block said, “United States agricultural trade policies are directed at-an expanded and liberalised exchange of commodities ' in the world market.” -.

Speaking* in Brussels,

clearly for the of Common - Market officials. Mr Block said, “We approach our customers .and, competi-. tors with an' invitation to negotiate for lower- trade barriers wherever, they exist An open trading world is the future — and it can and will be achieved.” “The worid's food economy ,is a global enterprise. Even in times- like these, when there is backsliding towards protectionism, we know that in the end'we will have to deal rationally with the

worid's food and trade problems.” ’ ' : Mr ’■ Block's comments . would- appear .to offer the New' Zealand Government ammunition in the battles ahead over moves to limit , imports of lamb and casein. The Administration has so far opposed the import restrictions being sought by farmers and their represent tativgs in Congress. But it is. .. still' not ‘ Clear whether the Government will against the strong pressures behind the moves.