MARKETING OF FRUIT.

Otago Witness, Issue 3961, 11 February 1930, Page 18

MARKETING OF FRUIT.

METHODS AND CONDITIONS. WELLINGTON, February 5. A thorough departmental investigation into the methods and conditions of marketing fruit and vegetables in the

four main centres of New Zealand has been ordered by the Minister of Industries and Commerce (Mr J. B. Donald) In an interview to-day the Minister recalled that towards the end of last session of Parliament a petition was received asking that the system of marketing fruit and vegetables in Wellington be inquired into either by the Department of Industries and Commerce or the Department of Agriculture. The suggestion was considered by the Industries and Commerce Committee of the House, which recommended that the investigation asked for should be conducted during the recess by the Department of Industries and Commerce. “ I have since had an opportunity of going into the question,” the Minister added, “ and I have decided that a complete investigation be made and that it be extended to the three other centres. The order of reference is now being finalised by my department and it is anticipated that the inqury will be put in hand during the next fortnight. Among other things the order of reference will require the investigation officers to show the present channels of disposal of fruit and vegetables, the classes sold in each locality, the methods of packing and grading, labelling, marketing, handling and transport to markets, the sources of supply of cases, the methods of dealing with second hand cases and other packers, facilities for cool storage and the extent to which fruit for local markets is stored. Sales methods will also be fully inquired into while the methods of accounting of distributors, the functions of growers’ organisations regarding marketing and advertising, the extent of sales of fruit and vegetables in New Zealand itself, and the utilisation of surplus supplies will as well receive close attention.” The Minister said he felt sure the recommendations made as the result of the inquiry would prove of considerable value to the interests affected.