CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 2775, 17 October 1923, Page 2

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

ANNUAL (MEETING,

- The annual meeting of the Feilding Chamber of Commerce- took place on Monday evening, Mr A. J. Kellow occupying the chair. In an address on the past year's activities, Mr Kellow referred to the presence at the meet, ing of the representatives of the Railway, Postal, and Public Trust Department's of the Government service. These departments were, in his opinion, very capably conducted, and he thought the standard of business ability shown by the officials was as high as that of the commercial life of the country. In reviewing the work of the year, Mr Kellow referred to the progress of borough affairs, in the resolution of the Council and the ratepayers to have the main roads of the borough tar-sealed, and the establishment (if a rest-room in the town. Both these proposals had received the support of the Chamber. Parliament had reduced the income tax on companies, and it had been hoped that there would bo a still further reduc. lion, but he was not sanguine on that point. With regard to the Imperial Economic Conference, Mr Kellow was not keen on any proposal for preference which would have the effect of making -the cost of living dearer in England, where the conditions were quite bad'enougn. Mr Kellow also referred to, international questions, saying he believed the League of Nations would ultimately establish world peace by goodwill. Regarding the commercial prospocta ahead of New Zealand, he said lamb and mutton prices were satisfactory at present, but would they hold? He was doubtful. The -dairy industry was in a doubtful position. The Argentine was improving its methods, and Ireland, when settled down to business, would seriously challenge New Zealand's Home market. He advised factories- to sell while the going was good. In conclusion, Mr Kellow wished the Chamber a 'prosperous year. (Applause.) ELECTION OP OFFICERS. The. following officers were elected: President, Mr A. E. Sandford; vicepresidents, Messrs W. Carthew and R. Cobbe; committee, Messrs Kellow, H. Tolley, C S. Jeffs, D. Pcarce, C. Camp, bell, A. McCorkindale, and V Smith; secrotary, Mr G| Fitzpatrick; auditor, Mr T Pagan. On the motion of Mr Kellow, it was decided that the committee should select the. holiday committee. At the conclusion of the ordinary .business a musical programme was provided by local talent.