HOME MARKETS.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXV, Issue 16492, 6 March 1914, Page 4

HOME MARKETS.

TO TUI EDITOR. Sir, —T hare read carefully the address of Mr J. H. Kstill to members of. the Chamber of Commerce and your leader thereon, and with your permission should like to say a few words on the si do of outpnrts. more especially with regard to Hull (with which port J am familiar). The Bristol section is well able to deal with its. part of the argument and position. I notice Mr Estill is reported to have said, Their appetite (the outports) was as a baby’s to a giant’s ” Well, all J can say* is that they are much nearer vigorous manhood, with a corresponding and growing appetite. Take Hull. Its distributing srea embraces • a population of oyer eleven millions, which must entitle it to claim serious consideration, even against London. I will merely mention further that Hull is noted as a port of low charges, quick and careful handling of produce, and its geographical situation is most favourable. For instance, to name one article only, i. 0., wool, the natural port for Bradford is Hull, with charges and rates accordingly. In conclusion no one attempts to arguo as to London being the first port as to size, etc., but does not the fact ,of the huge sums that are being spent to bring it up-to-date show that it has been allowed to lag sadly behind?—l am, etc.. J. IT. SKINNER,