CLOTHING TRADE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20629, 9 August 1941, Page 2

CLOTHING TRADE

BRITAIN'S EXPORT CUTS DIFFICULTIES FOR N.Z. Manufacturers throughout New Zealand are endeavouring to secure some modification of the restrictions imposed by Britain on the export oi piece-goods- and yarns so as to enable larger stocks to reach the Dominion. While there is a possibility of some assistance being given, the position generally is still vague, Many matters concerning the clothing trade in New Zealand were discussed at a recent meeting of representatives of the trade held in Wellington. Endeavours were made tc persuade the Government to allow alternative sources of supply. It was pointed out that the quotas imposed by Britain might cause unemployment in the Dominion if relief was not forthcoming. Britain banned the shipment of woollen and worsted yarns to New Zealand ir. May, and a quota was imposed on export of cotton-piece goods, reducing shipments to onethird of 1940 supplies. These quotas were fixed for periods, of four months the first of which expires at the end of August. It has been pointed out that the total ban on export of yarns to New Zealand was imposed by Britain under the impression that Australia would be able to meet the demand, but shortly afterwards the Commonwealth also introduced a complete prohibition. Some relief has been given by Britain lifting the embargo on goods ordered prior to the ban and lost in shipment enables these goods to be replaced. British firms are also being allowed to complete New Zealand orders which were in hand when the embargo was introduced.

Manufacturers contend that until some decision is reached every effort should be made to expand the output of parn from local spinning mills. Greater use should be made of existing plant, and workers might be transferred from less essential industries. Fair stocks of some classes of soft goods are held by ietail stores, tut wholesale houses have been unable to obtain fresh supplies since shortly after the outbreak of war.