THE FRUIT TRADE

Southland Times, Issue 18967, 14 June 1923, Page 5

THE FRUIT TRADE

“UP AGAINST IT” RETAIL PRICES AND GROWERS* PROFITS CONTROL BOARD SUGGESTED (Per United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, June 13. The serious position in the fruit industry was discussed at the annual conference of the Dominion Fruitgrowers’ Federation today. The Hon. W. Nosworthy said that he was sorry for the position in the fruit industry. It had been suggested that a commission should be set up to go into the matter, but he did not altogether favour the suggestion. He felt that something was necessary if they were to make a success of the industry. There appeared to be a tremendous difference between prices on the farm and prices at which fruit was retailed. He knew the seriousness of the position, and that it affected many very <fisastrously. How they could remedy matters was a problem. Officers in bis Department would give any assistance.

Mr T. C. Brash (Nelson) moved that th« conference urge the necessity of a fruit export control board, and press upon the Gov ernment to pass the necessary legislation. He maintained that it was necessary, in the interests of the industry, and was simply an extension of the co-operative principle. The board would be elected, by producers, with representatives appointed by the Government. He thought all primary industries would eventually have control boards, not only for export, as was the case with the Meat Control Board. When the Meat Control Board was proposed it was staled that the meat industry was in a desperate situation, but it was in no more desperate plight than was the fruit industry. The success of the Meat Control Board was unquestioned. In regard to the dairy industry, 80 per cent, of the producers were in favour of a Control Boari but whether they would get it remained to be seen. So far as fruit was concerned, control would be necessary over markets in New Zealand as well as in export. What was wanted was a board which would have power to bring down a marketing scheme. The matter would need to be explained to producers, if it was to go through, and would need to be handled with great care, so that the board would act with the approval of producers. It was a matter of paramount importance to the industry. Mr F. E. Nottage (Nelson) seconded the motion and urged that it was the most important question, before the conference. Such a board would bring down many improvements, which would help the industry, but which could not be introduced if they depended on voluntary effort. Production was increasing and they should get more fruit overseas. He suggested that the chairman of such a board should be an officer of the Department. He should be a man with wide commercial experience. The board should have extensive powers, bringing its proposals into operation gradually, including regulation and distribution in New Zealand, export and also a marketing scheme if considered desirable. After, further discussion it was decided to form a committee, to consider the matter and report to a conference.