DOMINIONS’ WAR PROBLEMS

Southland Times, Issue 24369, 25 February 1941, Page 4

DOMINIONS’ WAR PROBLEMS

Australian Minister’s Visit (United Press Association) WELLINGTON, February 24. The Australian Assistant Minister of Commerce and Assistant Treasurer, Mr H. L. Anthony, who is spending a fortnight in New Zealand representing the Australian Government in a discussion on the common war-time problems of the Commonwealth and the Dominion, arrived in Wellington today. He was accompanied by Mr J. V. Maroney, SeniorInquiry Officer of the Commonwealth Department of Commerce, Mr D. L. Canavan, of the Commonwealth Treasury, and Mr A. C. W. Fisken, chairman of the Australian Meat Producers’ Board. They were accompanied by the Minister of Marketing, the Hon. J. G. Barclay, who met the party on its arrival at Auckland.

Mr Anthony stated that he proposed to discuss with the Ministry here a number- of important questions affecting the commerce and finance of the two countries, particularly in the export of produce. The meat position, including storage, and also the marketing of dairy produce and fruit would be investigated. As shipping problems had been accentuated in recent months the need for a common policy between the two countries had become progressively greater and the establishment of _ a long-term policy advancing the interests of both Australia and the Dominion was desirable. This would be the principal task he would face while discussing these questions with the New Zealand Government.

Mr Anthony also intends to examine New Zealand's scheme for the marketing of pears and apples as he is responsible for the administration of a similar scheme in Australia. Another subject to be discussed is the supply of coal to New Zealand from Australia. Apart from questions of trade and commerce Mr Anthony will meet the Minister of Finance, the Hon. W. Nash, and discuss with him several aspects of finance as they affect the interests of Australia and New Zealand.