Britain May Apply Defensive Restrictions

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 96, 26 April 1939, Page 6

Britain May Apply Defensive Restrictions

IMPORTERS’ PROTEST Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, April 24. "The measures adopted by the Government for the second period of import restrictions are drastic and will create great dislocation of business generally and will hit the consumer hard,” said Mr D. Hogg, president of the United Kingdom Manufacturers’ and New Zealand Representatives’ Association, today. ‘‘ln view of this situation, we wonder if the Ottawa treaty is still in existence.” he said. “If it is, surely these prohibitions are a breach of same. Such being the case we shall await with interest the action of the British Government. Britain to-day is looking for export trade, and industrialists there more than ever are active to achieve this end. They are urging their Government to use their bargaining power as the best customer in the world and to call for fair trade reciprocity not only with foreign countries but with the Dominions. Of all the Dominions New Zealand is more dependent on the British market than any other, and therefore every effort should be made to maintain good relations. ‘‘The discrimination used under the regulations may justifiably result in Britain applying in self-defence similar restrictions on New Zealand produce. The effect of such a course would be apparent to all.” The association is calling a general meeting of members to discuss and consider the embargoes on United Kingdom imports.