PETROL CONCESSION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18889, 11 December 1924, Page 11

PETROL CONCESSION.

POSITION OP MOTORISTS.

WAIHI PROPOSAL REJECTED.

QUESTION OF IMPORTATION.

The feasibility of obtaining relief for (motorists in regard to the price of petrol was discussed at a conference last evening between the council of the Auckland Automobile Association and representatives of the country branches.

Mr. H. D. M. Haszard, of Waihi, moved the following remit: "That the association endeavour to obtain a concession in the price of petrol, similar to that obtained for the members of the Canterbury association." Mr. Haszard said the Waihi Branch had been assured by a Canterbury motorist that he had been able to secure a rebate on petrol amounting to 2s a case, but its informant had not been able to say exactly how the concession had been obtained. (Laughter.)

Mr. F. G. Farrell said that some years ago an effort had been made to import pe'trol for tho benefit of members of the association, but it had been found impracticable. Most of the retailers sold benzino at a profit of Is 6d per case, which was a perfectly fair profit for a retailer, and the large distributors would not supply to any organisation other than the trade at wholesale prices. It had also to be remembered that several influential members of tho association were dealers in petrol. (Laughter.) Mr. A. Gravson said the council went so far as to oDtain quotations for a shipload of benzine, but it was realised too much expense would bo involved in erecting or renting a store. The net result of the inquiries was that tho association could not supply the fuel to members at less than tho rate then ruling. Mr. H. C. Jones agreed that the initiation of a scheme of that sort would land the association in for a lot of trouble.

The remit was rejected.