WHEAT DUTIES

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 16, 13 October 1933, Page 9

WHEAT DUTIES

Auckland Allegations

MR. MACHIN’S REPLY

By Telegraph.—Press Association. Christchurch, October 12.

A reply to certain allegations made by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce on the effect of wheat duties was made by Mr. W. Machin before the Tariff Commission to-day. The statements were contained in a manifesto entitled “The Wheat Glut,” forwarded to the commission on September 28. Mr. Machin said that bread in New Zealand was cheaper in terms of real wages than in 18 out of 22 leading countries of the world. The wheat industry supported a host of allied and subsidiary industries, and a larger proportion of labour than most industries. The industry had not asked for any export bounty, and had provided for orderly marketing. Since the sliding scale was instituted wheat lands had largely decreased in value. If the Government was to institute an export tax on wheat, would the Auckland chamber advocate a similar tax on butter, wool, and meat? As usual, the statements made by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce on the subject of wheat were not founded on facts, but were suggestions and half-truths which exhibited much bias.

Dr. Craig: Isn’t it a little unfair to use the words “as usual”?

Mr. Machin: This is really the continuation of an argument started at Least four years ago.