FRUIT OUTLOOK

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 9 June 1927, Page 2

FRUIT OUTLOOK

MARKETS SATISFACTORY Dr. C. J. Reakes, Director of Agriculture, speaking at the N.Z. Fruitgrowers' Conference (according to "The Post") said thathe saw no reason why markets should not continue satisfactory. The fruit industry had had its downs and ups, perhaps fewer of the latter, but the industry now seemed to be reaching its rightful position in the country. He was certain'that the members of the industry were eager to do their part, and it was- very gratifying that fruit growers were so ready to work with the Department's officers in every way. A thing which had given them much thought was the cheapest and best method of getting fruit to the consumer. If the industry were to prosper, a reduction in the cost of marketing would hasten it. Suggestions had been made of dealing with this by legislation, but while this was worthy of consideration, it deserved very thoughtful attention before action was taken. i;The president thanked the Minister for his encouragement and advice, and expressed the great appreciation of the fruit growers for the assistance in" the matter not only.of the but in every direction, by the Government without the support of which many fruit growers would have found themselves in the Bankruptcy Court. He expressed deep; gratitude to Mr Hawken for valuable services and to all members of the Horticultural Department, the most friendly relation* with whom existed. The report and balance-sheet, showing a satisfactory position, were adopted.

PREPARING FOR INDEPENDENCE

"There are indications- that growers realise that'it is probable that the guarantee will not be continued for a great number of years," said Mr Brash. "We all know that the time has •to come when we will not be able.to claim a guarantee, . because unless " that time comes it will be an indication that the industry is a failure, and cannot be allowed to exist;, i Growers have suggested that a fund should be provided in the good years, .so that when the time comes we wiil be able to face the position. The guarantee- is invaluable from the outlook of the exporters, and we would like to be able to ask the Government to continue it, at least in that direction. 1 think a committee should be set up to go into the matter of fixing such a levy. , The matter was considered by delegates to b«- most- important, as unless growers* could be proved ready to help themselves the Government would not be inclined to continue the guarantee in thff meantime. It was recalled -that the ■'Minister of Agriculture had noted that the industry was making headway and that it was not. intended by the Government to continue the guarantee for long.' A committee was set up to put the levy in action.