N.Z. WAR ECONOMY

Greymouth Evening Star, 7 November 1939, Page 7

N.Z. WAR ECONOMY

POSSIBLE READJUSTMENTS

DISCUSSED BY MR. FRASER

[by OABLE —PRESS ASSN. —COPYRIGHT.]

(Received November 7, 40. q.pi.) LONDON, November 6.

The transfer of men and machinery from certain public works to primary production, in order to expand New Zealand’s war effort, will be considered, should Britain indicate that her requirements warrant such a move. This is one of several possible important readjustments in New Zealand’s economy, envisaged after Mr. Fraser’s first week of talks with members of the British Cabinet.

Mr. Fraser has already participated in general discussions on Empire war finance with Sir John Simon, and later intends to go into a more detailed examination of New Zealand’s position with the Treasury. It will include the method of financing New Zealand’s expeditionary force. It is understood that the cost will be met by a loan, as in the last war. Arrangements for the supply of meat, butter, and cheese are on the eve of completion, and the agreed prices between .the British and New Zealand Governments will be announced shortly.; Mr. Fraser conferred at length with Dr. Burgin, whose Department he described as being most efficient, and as certain to play a crucial part in the prosecution of the war. He assured Dr. Burgin, also the members of the British Government generally, that New Zealand was anxious to use all her resources of land, labour, and machinery, in order to increase the production of commodities Britain needs most. It is understood that one of the most heartening signs from New Zealand’s viewpoint is the likelihood in Britain of an .increased demand for flax, resulting in benefits to the languishing industry. The trans-Tasman air service was among the most-important topics raised immediately after the arrival of Mr. Fraser, he emphasising the defence aspects, and urging its inauguration without delay.

Regarding the general war plan, Mr. Fraser told the Australian Associated Press: “I am greatly impressed with the extensive preparations and the efficiency of the three fighting services. I have had an opportunity of seeing something of the widespread organisation of Britain’s defence, which should inspire confidence in the Dominions. So far as a layman can judge, Britain’s war services and leaders were never more efficient.” Mr. Fraser spent a morning at Scotland Yard, where he discussed New Zealand’s proposal to appoint women police, with Miss Peto, Superintendent of the Women’s Branch, and examined all the aspects of the work of such a force. It is admitted that the problem differs greatly in each country, but Mr. Fraser is taking back valuable information, especially regarding preventive work.