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Evening Post, Volume CXII, Issue 145, 16 December 1926, Page 25

Albcmarlo Pippins, which come from the Dominions only in jiegligiblo quan--1 titles. If the supplies from the U.S.A. aro stopped beforo a corresponding quantity is available from tho Dominions an increased cost to tbo consumer would inevitably result. On the other hand, if supplies aro more than requirements, prices will fall, and it is obvious that the fruit trade is governed by the law of Bupply and demand. "Copies of the report have been sent abroad, the absence of s full explanation of many of the statements, will give shippers a bad impression of firms who have helped to build up tho busi- | ■ ness, and fostered-it for years, and who, it is submitted, have always conducted their business honourably. Wo strongly, resent. the assumption that the trade does not desire to sco an increase in Empire production. We fully recognise tho standpoint of tho Empire producer, but this federation 33 also compelled to consider the subject from the broad aspect of providing the nation with regular and plentiful supplies of fresh fruit and vegetables. REDUCTION OF EMPLOYMENT. ""We. think there should have been some representatives on the Committee who aro directly connected with the distribution of fruit in this country, and who are, therefore, in continual contact with both producers and consumers. "Iv conclusion^ we desire to emphasise that any reduction of imports will result in less cargo being available for British ships (all fruit supplies from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, and at least 90 per cent, from the U.S.A. are carried in ships flying the British flag, and approximately 75 pct1 cent, of these are British companies), and.less traffic for the railway companies and auxiliary services, thus causing a considerable diminution in. the demand for labour at the docks, markets, and retail establishments, etc., with a consequent increase in the number of unemployed. It will also affect the health of the mass.es by increasing the cost and so eliminating fruit from their diet." ' ST, Fleet street.