MOTORS FROM AMERICA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19947, 16 May 1928, Page 14

MOTORS FROM AMERICA.

PURCHASE BY LOCAL BODY. LOWER PRICE THAN BRITISH. MANUKAU COUNCIL'S DECISION.

The question of preference for British goods was raised at a meeting of the Manukau County Council yesterday, when the replacement of the engineer's motorcar and a motor-truck was considered. The engineer recommended an American make of vehicle in both instances, chiefly on the grounds of comparative cost. The agents for the American make claimed that the vehicles, being assembled in New Zealand, were 75 per cent. Dominion manufacture, and the agents were prepared to make a large allowance on the return of the used machines. The American truck was approximately £75 cheapei than a British lorry of similar capacity, but no inquiry had been made as to an allowance on the old vehicle from the British agents. " There is no doubt the American cars are more comfortable," said the chairman, Mr. F. M. Waters.

Other members expressed the opinion that British-made vehicles were unsuitable for colonial conditions.

" Tho board has agreed with the policy of buying British or Dominion-manufac-tured goods in preference wherever possible," said Mr. L. Gilbert.son. He thought this we.s a case where the policy should be observed.

Mr. J. Luko also supported the British make, saying he would prefer to seo British vehicles purchased, but was impressed by the expert opinion given by the engineer.

Mr. Gilbertson then moved as an amendment that the British make be preferred in both instances, but his motion lapsed as there was not a seconder. It was finally decided to purchase the American vehicles recommended by the engineer.