IMPORT CONTROL

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 262, 3 August 1939, Page 10

IMPORT CONTROL

Restriction On Spare Parts Criticised OFFICIAL OF MOTOR FIRM One unfair aspect of the import control regulations was the reduction that had been made iu the quantity of spare machinery parts that could be brought into New Zealand, said Mr. E. E. Thompson, of the Chrysler Corporation, Detroit, who arrived at Wellington oy the Wanganella yesterday. That, he thought, was an unfair penalty on tiie people who had bought ears before the restrictions and who might need to replace some vital component. There were stocks at present, but further imports had been restricted. Used cars would be in greater demand an* l with that an increase in the number of spares needed could be expected. The position was recognized in Australia, where there was a restriction on the importation of cars but not on parts. The same criticism applied to all machinery parts that could not be manufactured in New Zealand. The primary object of Mr. Thompson’s visit to New Zealand, which is of indefinite duration but will probably last a few weeks, is to acquaint himself more thoroughly with the import control regulations and the effect they are likely to have upon his company. "We are naturally disappointed at the import control regulations, but we are willing to contribute our share to the welfare of the country,” said Mr. Thompson. Mr. Thompson has spent the last six months in Australia, where, he said, business conditions were good. As an aftermath of last season’s droughts sojme districts had suffered financially, but that stage was now passing.