Dumping N.Z. Produce in Britain

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 201, 22 May 1936, Page 13

Dumping N.Z. Produce in Britain

Sir, —It is rather difficult to follow the theme or reason of Mr. Fitzherbert’s letter in to-day’s ‘•Dominion,” unless it is to give a first-class exhibition of loose thinking. His reference to the quantity of margarine sold in Britain lias very little connection with the price. It has many other appeals than this to the regular users. Tliat used for individual consumption is a very high-class product, and is fur superior to imported butters selling at a higher price. .Some of the many reasons for its use, which have a definite domestic appeal, are as follows: —Excellent flavour, uniformity of laste, high nutritive value, good spreadability, and good keeping qualities. All of which are maintained under practically any climatic conditions. The fact of its high food value can be accepted by anyone who has a knowledge of the scientific process of building up an army ration. The idea that margarine is a despicable product is only held by those who are ignorant of its food value. It is also an Empire product, which is entitled to its share of the Home market. .1 will wager that, if Mr. Fitzherbert. had identical pats of high-class margarine, and New Zealand butter put before him as butter for general judging, he would decide in favour of margarine. This is a test that many butler experts have failed in. Will Mr. Fitzherbert please tell me why, in view <>t his attitude toward margarine, lie does not attack users of peanut butter in this country? Its universal use in this country in place of butter, comes as a big surprise to people settling in this Dominion, It would seem that there is plenty of scope here for Mr. Fitzherbert to test his theories preparatory to putting Britain right. Mr. Fitzherbert scathingly refers to some very clever men, and I doubt his ability to’ uphold his judgment iu their company. 1 am sure that all friends of the Empire would have some sleepless nights it they thought the Empire was at the mercy of the men whom lie thinks are capable of teaching Britain “some commonsense.” This business oi leaching "Grandmother Hull” how to suck eggs is overdone, and is making its advocates look very ridiculous in tile eyes of f [linking people. A kindly tolerance with a wayward child is often mistaken for weakness. Her attitude, based on centuries of experience is, that any transgression of fundamental principles, automatically brings its deserts, which are very salutary. The wise child recognises this and mends its ways to avoid another spanking. I do not suppose that the weighty opinion of Mr. Fitzherbert will stampede Mr. Elliot, nor cause our friends in Fleet Street or West-* minster much inconvenience. Cheer up. Mr. Fitzherbert! The British Empire is not such a bad place to live in. f you do not believe mo. try some other country. That should be sufficient punishment for even such a I’hilistine as yourself.—l am, etc.. JOHN BULL JUNIOR. Wellington, May 21.