TEA SUPPLIES

Evening Post, Volume CXXVIII, Issue 103, 28 October 1939, Page 13

TEA SUPPLIES

DEMAND CAN BE MET

MINISTER'S ASSURANCE

"My attention has been drawn to the articles appearing in the Press dealing with the question of tea prices and the likelihood, of Increased values," stated the Minister of Supply (the Hon. D. G. Sullivan) today.

"It is absurd to contend," added the Minister, "that had the Import Selection Regulations not been operative those in the trade could have foreseen the overseas market rise that has taken place since the outbreak of war, and that they would have imported sufficient quantities to keep them off the frequent sales that take place in Colombo.

"In any case, tea is a commodity that does not keep indefinitely, and therefore frequent, in fact consistent, importations are necessary. A close watch is being kept upon the stock position, and there are supplies in New Zealand that should assure the Dominion of sufficient to keep up ordinary current demand. "Statements referring to shortages and anticipated price rises, such as these b articles dealing with tea, can serve but little purpose other than to embarrass traders, who in the normal course would find their stocks adequate in supplying the demand, but who, as a result of 'panic-inspired' articles; are faced with a run which causes an accelerated demand beyond that which is normal.

"The stock position is being, very" closely watched," added the : Minister, "and if there is the slightest danger that New Zealand is likely to run out of so important a commodity as tea, then the necessary arrangements will be made whereby importation can be accelerated. In the . meantime, however, the public can be assured that there, is sufficient tea in New. Zealand or on order to cater for our requirements for some time ahead."