“USE MORE WOOL” CAMPAIGN.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 July 1931, Page 6

“USE MORE WOOL” CAMPAIGN.

Though there will be different opinions in regard to the suggested export levy of 3d. per bale, to set up a fund for local propaganda, the desirability of an appeal to Dominion residents to “use more wool” is quite obvious. There is no question but that Now. Zealand could absorb in the shape of manufactured goods much more of the wool grown here than is used at present, and public demonstrations have shown conclusively that plants already in operation are capable of turning out first-class goods. Public health authorities and t'he medical profession are united in their support of woollen clothing and have condemned in no uncertain terms the use of substitutes that do not contain the good qualities of wool. The dictates of fashion have, no doubt, to be considered, though at one time the_ woollen manufacturer in New Zealand, as well as in Great Britain, seemed to think that durability was the only characteristic customers should take into account when choosing wearing apparel. Rival manufacturers of such commodities as artificial silk and mixtures of silk and Cotton Saw the opportunity, and . the wool trade suffered ja grievous loss of business. Tile reflection of that Ibss is found in the low prices now obtainable for New Zealand wool. Tlierti is ample evidence, however, that the wool industry in Great Britain and the Dominion has profited by experience. It has called science to its aid, and the result is seen in decreased costs of manufacture and in a style of goods produced that appeals to the artistic sense as well as the desire for economy of the buyer. Nevertheless, there still remains tho necessity for educating the public. Good quality and design are essential if New Zedland-made wearing apparel is to appeal to purchasers, but in addition there must be well-directed and continuous publicity. The campaign that is now proposed would make an excellent beginning. To be thoroughly effective propaganda- must be sustained, not attempted by fits and shafts, and a combination of growers, manufacturers and retailers should be able to evolve means of ensuring proper organisation. If to well regulated publicity were added an appeal to local patriotism tile benefit to the industry in all its phases would bo beyond doubt. i