STATE PREFERENCE FOR N.Z. SUPPLIES.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 24 September 1929, Page 2

STATE PREFERENCE FOR N.Z. SUPPLIES.

TREATED AS MOST FAVOURED NATION

MINISTER’S ASSURANCE,

WELLINGTON, Last Night,

The Government’s policy in regard, to the purchase of stares and supplies is stated in a letter which Mr F. Campbell, president of the New Zealand Manufacturers’ Federation, has received from the Minister of Industries. and Commerce (Hon. J. G. Cobbc). “At a recent meeting of Cabinet, the following resolutions were adopted in regard to the policy to be observed in the purchase of stores and supplies for State purposes. (1) That the existing preference afforded to goods manufactured in New Zealand be confirmed. In considering tenders received, the Tenders Board adds the existing tariff rates, plus all freight and handling charges. Where no duty operates, 10 per cent is added to British goods and 20 per cent to foreign, plus the above charges. (2) That where tenders arc invited from abroad for goods which are made in the Dominion, manufacturers in New Zealand be giv.en equal and full opportunity to quote. (3) In considering quotations where the employment of labour is a large factor in the cost of production, the board will be expected to exercise a bias in favour of the New Zealand tenders. (4) That the Government desires, in its purchases of goods for departmental use, to give those produced in New Zealand the most favourable treatment, provided the quality, price, and other factors relating to delivery arc equal. “I may add that all the departments concerned in the purchase of stores have been instructed by the Prime Minister in a letter dated August 33, to conserve the policy outlined. ’ ’