MR G. W. FORBES, P.C., M.P., PRIME MINISTER

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21647, 18 May 1932, Page 13

MR G. W. FORBES, P.C., M.P., PRIME MINISTER

NEED OF SUSTAINED SUPPORT FOR LOCAL INDUSTRY EFFECTIVE METHOD OF PROPAGANDA I am glad to avail myself of the opportunity extended to me of commending the efforts of the Dunedin Manu- ‘ facturers’ Association and retailers in staging another “ Made in New Zealand ” shop window display week. I am whole-heartedly in agreement with the view that the appeal through shop window displays of our various manufactures is a most effective method of propaganda. I feel that any effort that aims at the fostering and support of our manufacturing industries is deserving of every commendation and thoughtful consideration from the public.

Our manufacturers are- justly confident that their products will bear the strictest comparison with similar goods produced overseas. Any lack of support accorded to the products of the Dominion contributes to unemployment, which has to be relieved by Government and other bodies out of moneys provided by the taxpayer. I am confident that with greater support from the purchasing public towards the products of our factories that alleviation of unemployment will result. The problem of finding suitable employment for the boys and girls leaving school is a very serious one, and under present conditions presents considerable difficulty. It is essential from this point that our manufacturing industries obtain the active and sustained support of the people of New Zealand in order that avenues of employment may be provided for the young people as they leave school. Every purchase of New Zealand-made goods means the employment of plant, machinery, and labour, and every additional sum spent in purchasing such goods which previously was spent on imported goods assists in making it possible for more workers to be employed. A pleasing feature of these displays in Dunedin is the active support given the movement by the retailers. It is recognised that the retailer, as the link between the manufacturer, can by judicious advice to customers divert trade towards the local manufacturer, and I appeal specially to them to assist in providing work for our factories by disposing of their goods on all possible occasions. I trust that the results of previous, years will be eclipsed by this week’s effort. ■ Pnm^jlltSuster.