THE COOK ISLANDS

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 38, 8 November 1933, Page 8

THE COOK ISLANDS

Conditions During Year EFFECTS OF DEPRESSION The effect of the depression on the trade of the Cook Islands is shown in figures quoted in the annual report of the Cook Islands Administration, presented to the House of Representatives yesterday. The total value of imports and exports was £272,608 in 1920. It fell to £212,906 in 1930, to £149,205 in 1931, and to £136,994 last year.'Prices for copra and fruit continued at an extremely low level, and the orange trade of the group suffered severely owing to the withdrawal of the usual Union Company cargo-steamer service from Auckland. As in 1931, the orange season was again a disastrous one for Cook Island producers, owing to a great extent to the swamping of New Zealand markets with Australian oranges admitted duty free. The embargo against Australian fruit has given producers more heart, and much better conditions are anticipated in the coming season. Despite the difficulties of finance, the year’s estimates were well maintained, and the year closed with a small credit balance. The medical services of the group continue to account for a large proportion of the total expenditure, but the results are seen in the universal reports of good health from all islands. “A pleasing feature of the report,” states the Minister in charge of the Administration, Sir Apirana Ngata, “is the evidence of the growing independence of the native jwople, which is shown by the number of school aud other Government buildings erected by the people themselves, practically without cost to the Government.”