SECONDARY INDUSTRIES.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20866, 5 November 1929, Page 15

SECONDARY INDUSTRIES.

PRINCIPLE OF TARIFF PROTECTION. ATTITUDE OF CHAMBERS OP COMMERCE. (Special to Daily Times.) AUCKLAND, November 4. Sonic concern was manifested at a meeting of the Auckland Manufacturers’ Association regarding what was felt to be an “ antagonistic attitude ” displayed by of commerce toward the principle of tariff protection in secondary industries. In particular exception was taken to the following remarks bv Mr C. P, Agar, who presided at the annual conference of the Associated Chambers of Commerce:—“l think it must be admitted that the country could go along quite successfully if it confined itself to primary production and those industries which could he successfully established without the necessity of high tariff protection. From time to time appeals are made to the Government for more tariff protection and a position quite unsound is likely to result from this state of affairs.” “ The Auckland Chamber of Commerce is the only chamber that is antagonistic to New Zealand secondary industries,” said Mr 6. Milla-Palmer. “ I think it should be obvious that the support of those industries is not inconsistent with the interests of the farmers.” “ Why should the manufacturers pay fees to the Chamber of Commerce when it takes up un antagonistic attitude towards us? ” asked another member. The president (Mr G. Finn) said the Chamber of Commerce had been approached on a previous occasion and an assurance had been given that no antagonism was intended. “ I think, however, ue might do some good if we brought it up again,” he added, “ and we could ask the chamber if it supports our slogan: ‘Nothing should be imported that can be satisfactorily produced in New Zealand.’ ” It was agreed to write to the Auckland Chamber on the lines suggested.