FARM IMPLEMENTS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 8 January 1944, Page 2

FARM IMPLEMENTS

N.Z. MANUFACTURING CAPACITY INQUIRY FROM BRITAIN Auckland, Jan. 7. A request has been received from the British Government for particulars of tlx manufacturing capacity of New Zealand for agricultural machinery surplus to the production programme for the Dominion’s domestic requirements for 1944. It is understood that this machinery is required for use in Great Britain, on the Continent and in North Africa in the post-war period. New Zealand has been producing fair quantities of agricultural machinery for export in recent years, and this official request from Britain is viewed as highly important by members of the metal industry. The information was contained in a letter from the Acting-Director of Production, Mr W Colquhoun, received by the Auckland Manufacturers Associa tion. The association has acted promptly in circularising its members asking for information as to the potential capacity of tlu industry. The members have been asked to state what increase over the present production required for domestic use in 1944 could be planned and the problems which would arise in effecting this. Details of the material required and the probable source of upply also are asked for, together with an indication of the additional manpower required, with details of the type and locality in which it would be required. It is pointed out that, while the potential capacity ol' th .* industry is being asked for, it should be realised that in view of the many difficult problems involved it may not be possible to offer maximum production. It is desirable, however, to have a complete picture of the capacity available so that full consideration can be given to it in relation with other essential work. There is no indication that any capacity that may be available will necessarily be utilised. With the object of discussing this request from Britain, together with other important future proposals affecting the industry, a me’eting of representatives the metal trades and agricultural machinery and plastics manufacturers will be held on Wednesday. Representatives are expected to attend from various parts of the Auckland province. The meeting will be presided over by Mr R. C. Porter, chairman of the metal trade group of the association. Other items to be considered by the meeting are rehabilitation, particularly as regards the farming industry, the future import policy of the Government, the housing scheme, post-war raw material requirements, manpower problems, including trade training and taxation relief for replacement of machinery. Following discussion on these points remits will be forwarded for consideration at a conference in Wellington on 19tn and 20th January, when representatives of the metal industry throughout New Zealand will meet