PRODUCE MARKETS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22962, 14 February 1938, Page 12

PRODUCE MARKETS

DOMINION'S POSITION DEPENDENCE ON BRITAIN REVIEW OF CONDITIONS The opinion that New Zealand could not expect to determine marketing conditions for her products in the United Kingdom Mas expressed by Sir James Gunson, who returned to Auckland by tho liangitiki from London on Saturday. Ho pointed out that what New Zealand possessed, and what it was hoped she would continue to enjoy, was a ready market in England for her products to the limit practicable. That condition was vital, for without it tho Dominion would bo bankrupt.

"Our butter exports represent about one third of the butter importations into England, and our cheese about two-thirds," said Sir* James. "Both are well marketed at current rates in tho best market in the t world, and the best one for us. Tho recent buying by Continental countries of our butter in London partly accounted for tho sharp temporary rise in values at the end of last. year. Our lamb finds a ready sale, and our wool is sought by English buyers, both here and in London, and by foreign buyers to their requirements and market opportunities. We cannot expect more from overseas outlets. "New Zealand honey is regarded favourably in England, and the trade in it could bo developed. The market for apples is highly competitive, and is subject to severe fluctuations. Ihere is an outlet on the Continent for apples which Tasmanian merchants are at present supplying. It would be an advantage to New Zealand growers to work these markets." , . The welfare of tho English farmer was receiving first consideration from the English authorities, continued fc»r James. That was naturally most important to England, for agriculture was still the leading industry there. To make up the shortage in -British home production to meet its needs, m conjunction with supplies into Englani from other countries, was all New Zealand coUld expect. England bad to buy from other countries to protect her own export trade.