NOT N.Z. FAULT

Grey River Argus, 24 July 1941, Page 2

NOT N.Z. FAULT

SHORTAGE OF SILK STOCKINGS.

(P.A.) CHRISTCHURCH, July 23. “The people of New Zealand have very little to complain about over the shortage of stockings,” said Mr W. Fairbrother, general manager of Tudor Hosiery, Ltd., upon his return to Christchurch, from a four months’ visit to the United States. Difficulties of all descriptions kept arising for New Zealand manufacturers who were doing their best to supply the country’s needs. He said supplies of cotton yarn were difficult to secure because of the British Government’s requirements for war purposes. Rayon chemical was being affected through the war, while woollen yarns overseas were also being commandeered for military requirements. Contrary to the general view, said Mr Fairbrother, the hosiery shortage could not be solved by granting import licenses. English hosiery workers had been transferred to war work, and hosiery production there was needed for home consumption. Supplies were available in the United States, but the Lease and Lend Act was only just operating, and it was obvious war essentials had to be considered before domestic requirements. Australia had no surplus to export, and manufacturing difficulties there were increasing because of men being called up for military service, and the shortage of raw materials. Conditions were such that Australian plant could not be kept going at full capacity.