Produce Markets

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 39, 16 February 1938, Page 9

Produce Markets

DOMINION’S POSITION. DEPENDENCE ON BRITAIN. The opinion that New Zealand could not expect to determine marketing conditions for her products in tho United Kingdom was expressed by Sir James Gunson, who returned to Auckland by the Rangitiki from London on Saturday. Ho pointed out that what New Zealand possessed, and what it was hoped she would continue to enjoy, was a ready market in England for her products to the limit practicable. That condition was vital, for without it tho Dominion would bo bankrupt. “Our butter exports represent about one-third of the butter importations into England, and our cheese about two-thirds,” said Sir James. “Both are well marketed at current rates in the best market in the world, and the best one for us. The recent buying by Continental countries of our butter in London partly accounted for the sharp temporary rise in values at the end of last year. Our lamb finds a ready sale, and our wool is sought by English buyers, both here and in London, and by foreign buyers to their requirements and market opportunities. We cannot expect more from overseas outlets. “New Zealand honey is regarded favourably in England, and the trade in it could be developed. The market for apples is highly competitive, and is subject to severe fluctuations. There is an outlet on tho Continent for apples which Tasmanian merchants arc at pre--sent .supplying. It would bo an advantage to New Zealand growers to work these markets.”

The welfare of the English farmer was receiving first consideration from the English authorities, continued Sir James. That was naturally most important to England, for agriculture was still the leading industry there. To mako up the shortage in British home production to meet its needs, in conjunction with supplies into England from other countries, was all New Zealand could expect. England had to buy from other countries to protect her own export trade.