HONEY CONTROL

Southland Times, Issue 20527, 2 July 1928, Page 8

HONEY CONTROL

REPLY TO CRITICISM

BEEKEEPERS LOYAL TO ASSOCIATION INTERFERENCE CLASSED AS IMPERTINENCE (Per United Press Association.) Hawera, June 30. “That this meeting of members of the National Beekeepers’ Association strongly affirms the principle of loyalty and practical support of the Honey Producers’ Association.” These were the terms of a motion unanimously carried by the National Conference of Beekeepers this morning. It was made by Mr Hillary, of Auckland, who stressed the danger of disloyalty. He added that the motion would have a far-reaching effect on public opinion. The president (Mr Clarke, of Matamat a' said that there had been a strong criticism by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce and to combat this criticism he gave a direct challenge to the prime promoter of the agitation against control and asked him to be present at this conference They must offer opposition to the anticontrol movement.

Mr Hillary said it was an impertinence on the part of the Auckland Chamber in trying to interfere in the management of the industry and it was time they were told to mind their own business.

The president said that if the opposition could point out any disadvantages of control they would gladly hear them, but the opinion amongst bee keepers was strongly favourable to control and its value was proved by a better range of prices here as compared with uncontrolled countries. Control was most necessary and vital to the industry. Another speaker affirmed that 95 per cent, of the beekeepers were strongly in favour of control.

ADVERTISING DOMINION’S PRODUCE. In view of the large export of honey to the United Kingdom this season amounting to over 1100 tons, or more than a quarter of the Home requirements, this conference concurs in any levy considered necessary by the Honey Control Board up to one penny per lb. on all export honey /for the purpose of extending the demand for New Zealand honey on that market and at the same time urges upon the Government the claims of the industry for financial assistance in this connection as is being done by the governments of such countries as Canada and Australia.” In moving this remit, Mr Alan Bates said there was a proportion of the output to quit in the next selling season and it was right that the Government should come to their aid and help them out of their difficulties. The remit was carried.

Among other remits carried were: — “That a man or committee be appointed to fix the dates for field days throughout New Zealand and thus avoid the clashing of dates. This arrangement would give all branches the benefit of the presence and assistance of apiary instructors and prom inent beekeepers.” “That representation be made to the Government with a view to having removed the restrictions at present placed on dairies and fruiterers in respect to the sale of honey to the public.” “That, seeing a large part of the instruc tors’ time is now taken up with grading, an additional instructor be appointed to the South .Auckland district.”