MEAT EXPORT RESTRICTIONS

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 120, 14 February 1935, Page 8

MEAT EXPORT RESTRICTIONS

While criticism of the British Government’s long-term policy in regard to meat imports to the United Kingdom must necessarily await the receipt of fuller and authoritative details, and also upon'the conclusions reached as the results of the discussions now proceeding, it is desirable that emphasis should be given to the implications of the levy and restrictions proposed. The levy on meat imports, it is suggested, is to be id. per lb. on foreign shipments, and |d. per lb. on shipments from the Dominions plus “a slight restriction.” This levy means, for example, that every wether for export to the United Kingdom will be loaded with a handicap of 3/6. That, multiplied by thousands, seems a handicap which in itself might have a serious reaction on our export trade. But in addition there is proposed a restriction of imports which is not defined. What is the Government’s reaction to this? The matter is of great importance, calling for a statement of the Government’s attitude toward the proposal. While it is readily, and, we think, generally, admitted that the British farmer is entitled to claim a measure of protection for bis industries, and that Britain in formulating her policy in regard to food imports from foreign countries must have regard to the markets in the A: countries for her own manufacturing industries, it must be insisted that protection and reciprocity should be measured by' their effect on the primary industries of the Dominion. There is a strong feeling in Australia that restriction has gone too far. It is a question of Britain and the Empire or Britain and the world, and the economic development of the Dominions suggests with increasing emphasis that the welfare of the' Commonwealth should be the prime consideration. This latest issue strengthens the conviction that another Imperial round table conference is due and should be held. It has been previously stated that opportunities will be afforded during the visit to England of overseas Ministers attending the Royal Jubilee celebrations for informal discussions on Imperial matters. ■ It is becoming increasingly evident, however, that something more formal and deliberate will be necessary. x