Refrigerated Freight Contract Negotiations Fail

Northern Advocate, 28 April 1939, Page 8

Refrigerated Freight Contract Negotiations Fail

[Special to “Northern Advocate”'] AUCKLAND, This Day.

It was learned in Auckland yesterday that . the recent negotiations in Wellington for tlje renewal of the freight contract for the shipment of New Zealand refrigerated produce to the United Kingdom were a complete failure.

Representatives of two of the shipping companies concerned have already left the Dominion. It is possible that the negotiations will be resumed in London within the next few months.

The present three-year contract covering the shipment of butter, cheese, meat 'and fruit, will expire on August 31. The shipping companies, it is reported, asked for 15 per cent increase on the 1936 rates, and a five-year contract, instead of the usual threeyear term. On the other hand, the Minister of marketing, the Hon. W. Nash, proposed a 5 per cent “reduction on the 1936 figures, with a 5 year contract. The shipping companies requested, in reply, a 5 per cent rise on the 1936 figures, and a five-year contract, with the proviso that if negotiations with Australia resulted in an increase, the same proportional increase should be made in New Zealand over and above the 1933 rate. Mr Nash is said to Wave agreed to the five-year contract, and also to the proviso relating to Australian rates, but refused any increase in the rates 'at present. The 1936 figures represent an increase of 2£ per cent over those for 1933. It was stated last night that if the discussions were resumed in London, as is likely, they will probably be held during the forthcoming visit of Mr Nash.