NEW MARKETS NEEDED

Evening Star, Issue 21131, 17 June 1932, Page 9

NEW MARKETS NEEDED

MINISTERS AT NATIONAL DAIRY SHOW PREMIER'S MESSAGE OF HOPE [Pee United Press Association.] PALMERSTON NORTH, June 17. Emphasis was laid upon, the need of opening up new markets for New Zealand’s products by the Hon. R. Masters (Minister of Industries and Commerce), when speaking at a National Dairy Show function last evening. The Alinister stated that, by virtue of his office, it was his duty to assist the development of both the secondary and the primary industries. They had failed up to the present to apply scientific methods to the marketing of their products. Over 92 per cent, went to Great Britain alone, while the exports of other countries were spread all over the world. In 1914 butter valued at twenty-four millions went to Great Britain from all sources. To-day the figure was forty-six millions. Markets had to be developed in other places, and the marketing end was one of the factors farmers had to take hold of. He expressed doubt whether the primary producers’ boards were giving as much attention to the marketing end as to the manufacturing side. His job as Minister was not that of a commercial traveller. Ho did not sell produce. Tho function of the department was to obtain information, and it was at the disposal of the fanners. There had been an increase of twenty-two millions worth of butter sent into _ Britain, while the increase of population there was only two millions. Of the produce sent to Britain eight millions worth was re-exported to the Continent. There was something wrong there. The dominion should exploit that market herself. . , Concluding, the i.-mister said the boards should be stimulated to greater activity at the marketing end of the business. All the principles that applied to the business man applied equally well to the farmers. The Prime Minister was also present at the function, and made a spirited appeal to the people to face their troubles by going straight ahead, and doing all they could for the country’s benefit. This was not the time for pessimism, he said. “These times test the mettle of a people. I believe the time is coming soon when the sun will shine again. The lessons New Zealand has learned through the present difficulties should be taken full advantage of as far as New Zealand is concerned.” Mr Forbes traced the difficulties the Government had encountered since entering upon office, ami the steps taken to meet the situation. The adjustment was painful, but when conditions changed the dominion would be in a position to make great progress. With such a people, and such a fertile country. nothing could keep us down. Air Alacmillan. Alinister of Agriculture, was also present.