MR. FRASER RECOGNISES ITS IMPORTANCE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22666, 17 June 1948, Page 6

MR. FRASER RECOGNISES ITS IMPORTANCE

DOMINION CITRUS

“The citrus industry of the country is a very important one both in regard to the health of the community and the industry of the community," the Prime Minister, Air. P. Fraser, told members of the N.Z. Citrus Council conference last night. He pointed ouit that the Government appreciated its importance.

Mr. Fraser touched on import control as it affected the industry and said attempts were made to determine what quantities of fruit were required to supplement local production and get it imported from Australia to meet the requirements of the public. He appreciated the value of the industry. particularly because of the uncertain state of the world and the necessity to protect such industries. Citrus fruits, necessary to public health, were unable to be imported during the war years. Questions such as that had to be viewed from a national point of view, having regard also to welfare and security. “I don't know what the future has in store for us,” said Mr. _ Fraser. “Sometimes I have doubts, put we must prepare for any contingencies that may arise.” Any representations made by the conference would be studied carefully and intelligently and would have his “friendly consideration.” Imports of Grapefruit

The conference president, Mr. N. P. Gibson, Tauranga, thanked Mr. Fraser for his remarks and drew attention to correspondence received_ recently from the Minister of Marketing, Mr. E. L. Cullen, to the effect that it was probable that imports of grapefruit would be restricted to allow Dominion growers to clear their production. That was very satisfying.

It was noted, however, that Mr. Cullen had mentioned the booking up of up to 450,000 cases of sweet oranges from South Australia. Producers could not hope to supply the demand in New Zealand for sweet oranges, but the Dominion was producing a very good sweet orange and he claimed that it was time there was some collaboration between the industry and the Marketing Department.

Mr. Fraser; Can they compare with the South Australian orange? Mr Gibson; Yes, I believe so. “Thl.« area has been said to be particularly suitable for the growing of sweet oranges,” said Mr. Gibson, “and the survival of this junior branch of the industry would be in great difficulty without collaboration.” Mr. Fraser said the Government had been attacked because of the difficulties experienced in getting sweet oranges. He asked how far the orange production of the country would meet the needs of the people? The president said he was not aware of the answer, but said he suggested collaboration.

At that stage, the Prime Minister was compelled to leave the conference to attend another meeting.