NEW ZEALAND SERGES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 19320, 6 May 1926, Page 13

NEW ZEALAND SERGES.

SUITABILITY FOR UNIFORMS. MANUFACTURERS URGE CLAIMS. [BY TELEGRAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.] . CHRISTCHURCH. Wednesday. A deputation from the Canterbury Industrial Association waited on the Lyttelton Harbour Board to-day and complained that in the specifications for uniforms it was stipulated that the cloth must bo Oxford serge. Mr. E. H. Marriuer, president of the association, said New Zealand serge was as good as any serge in the world and should be given a fair chance. The Lyttelton Board was the only one that had the provision complained of. Samples of New Zealand serges he showed tho board were, he said, as good as any that could be bought anywhere. In reply to tha secretary, Mr. Cyrus Williams, Mr. Marriuer said the Now Zealand prices were not greater than other prices and were sometimes less. The manufacturers asked that the word "Oxford" should be struck out, leaving the tenders open. Mr. S. J. Jnckman said the adverse balance in the Dominion's trade was a factor. The Dominion should be given a reasonable opportunity. Replying to Dr. Thacker, Mr. Marriner said the dye in New Zealand serges was absolutely satisfactory. Mr. W. J. Jenkin added that New Zealand serges would stand wear and tear as well as serges from anv other part of thp world. The rhaiiman said tho deputation had stated a Good case. The hoard would give it fsill consideration. The board decided that the next lenders should allow manufacturers in both New Zealand and Britain to tender.