NO PINEAPPLES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXIII, 26 February 1940, Page 10

NO PINEAPPLES

LICENSES TO IMPORT NONE TO BE ISSUED TOMATOES FROM FIJI FURTHER RESTRICTIONS In notifying merchants of a change in procedure applying to the importation on the consignment basis of fresh pinapples, the Government states that in the meantime it is not issuing licences to bring this fruit into the country, (states the New Zealand “Herald”). Furthermore, it has taken measures against the importation of fresh tomatoes from Fiji, and in future supplies will not be permitted to be brought here except under licence, the assumption being that if any trade is permitted it will be very restricted.

The notification to merchants regardpinapples states that the procedure under which licences have been granted in respect of fresh pinapples imported on consignment from the South Sea Islands or Australia will no longer apply.

Pinapples appear to be very much in disfavour with the Government, for merchants are unable to obtain licenses to import the tinned product. There are small quantities still in grocery shops, but not the usual wide range of selection, whether from the aspect of price—which is much higher than it was—or brands. The presence of some of the supplies in Auckland is due to purchases made by “black” exchange. Fiji is suffering greatly by the position and there have already been protests from that country where large supplies of juice are held.

The position with Fijian tomatoes is that the procedure of delayed licences on consignment supplies is cancelled. Licences must now be obtained prior to shipment. However, it is considered that the granting of licences will depend on the Rarotongan position, and, of course, the conditions ruling on the local market. CONCERN OF RETAILERS PLEA FOR RECONSIDERATION No very large sum is believed to be represented in the pineapple trade, and it was estimated by a merchant last night that £IOO,OOO would be more than sufficient to cover annual requirements. A telegram was despatched this week by the Queen Street Fruit Retailers’ Association to the Minister of Customs, the Hon. W. Nash, expressing concern at the prohibition of pineapple importations. In reply the Minister said the present position was such that it was unlikely funds would be available. However, inquiries were being made to investigate th - value of the pineapple from a health point of view.

The ban was also considered at a meeting of about 150 Auckland fruit retailers last night when, with r. few dissentients, it was decided t j request the Givernment to reconsider its decision.