OUTSIDE MARKETS

Evening Post, Volume CXIII, Issue 129, 4 June 1927, Page 9

OUTSIDE MARKETS

"AUSTRALIA'S NEEDS

EYES ON NEW ZEALAND

* RECIPROCITY URGED *BY

MR. M'LEOD

(United Press Association.—Copyright.) SYDNEY, 3rd June.

The Hon. A. D. M'Leod, in an^ interview prior to his departure by the Mararna to-day, stated' that he and his officers had had a very busy and interesting visit to the Commonwealth.

"Unfortunately it has not been possible for me to extend the visit beyond Victoria and New South Wales, but I am pleased to say that as a result of the facilities -afforded me I was .privileged to obtain most valuable information relative to the progress made and methods adopted by the manufacturers in tho3e States. I was particularly impressed with the fact that in practically all the larger, factories the bonus system of payment is in operation, and every effort is being made to extend that principle.

INCREASED PRODUCTION.

"Australian manufacturers have developed production to such an extent that in, some instances outside markets are being sought for a number of lines. Several companies suggested that they were desirous of increasing their trade with New Zealand, which, on account of its proximity to Australia,, offered one of the best markets for their products. In this connection manufacturers expressed the opinion that New Zealand might. fayouiably consider the extension of the full benefit of the British preferential tariff to Australia. New Zealand could no doubt take some surplus production, but unless Australia is prepared to take in payment therefor some of the Dominion's exports, in the shape of primary products, I think New Zealand will have to adhere to the policy of giving the maximum preference to Britain, which at present purchases practically the whole of our exportable production.

WHERE SO WE COME IK?

"Knowing as I do the extreme difficulties experienced under the present economic conditions by primary " producers in 'countries where secondary industries are highly protected, I personally cannot object to the Australian farmer pressing for higher duties on outside products which are in competition Syith' his own, but the duties suggested in.respect''of New Zealand butter, bacon, and hams, for ' instance, amount to ah, absolute embargo, and if they were termed as such the position would be more readily understood by . all "concerned. However, each of our countries has its oyrn particular difficulties in this respect, arid as the most friendly relationship' exists between them, I am hopeful that whon it is possible for the Commonwealth Minister of Customs to visit New Zealand a satisfactory adjustment will be made." ■ ■'■ ■.'!■'• .