FREIGHT INCREASES.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 41, 17 January 1929, Page 8

FREIGHT INCREASES.

DEFERRED FOR THE PRESENT.

NOTICE BY SHIPOWNERS,

(Australian Press Association). Received January 17, 9.50 a.m. LONDON, Jan. 16. A notice issued by the shipowners states:

“After a further discussion with our representatives in Australia, also with the Merchants Association here, it lias been decided to defer the freight increases for the present. Tho snippers will be given timely notice before the advance becomes operative. CONFERENCE TO BE HELD. Received January 17, 9.5 a.m. MELBOURNE, Jan. 16. The proposed increase in outward freights to Australia has been suspended pending a conference between the Commonwealth Government and the chipping representatives, stated Mr S. M. Bruce to-day. The Prime Minister added that at this conference the whole question of Australia’s overseas shipping would be considered with a view to putting it on a better basis and avoiding increases.

DELEGATES TO CONFERENCE.

(Australian Press Association)

Received January 17, 10.5 a.m. LONDON, Jan. 16. It is understood that two leading representatives of the shipowners will proceed to Australia for the conference. The names have not yet been disclosed. The merchants are confident that the increase will be averted. WHEAT AND FLOUR. Received January 17, 9.5 a.m. SYDNEY, Jan. 16. The decision to reduce freights on wheat and flour is regarded as a belated move to regain some of the lost trade due to the excessive rates formerly in operation. Tho reductions are about equivalent to 2}d per bushel, which has resulted in the hardening of the wheat market. However, it is doubtful whether growers will reap much benefit, as more than two-thirds of the current season’s grain is under agreement to be shipped either to the Continent at the old rates or to the East, where lower freights are in operation.