NEW LINERS SEEK TRADE

Taranaki Daily News, 26 May 1933, Page 6

NEW LINERS SEEK TRADE

FREIGHT REDUCTION OFFER FARMERS’ SUPPORT REQUESTED, NEGOTIATIONS BY MR. W.J. POLSON By Telegraph—Press Association. Dunedin, Last NightMr. VZ. J. Polson, M.P., president of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union, interviewed to-day, said that in view of th® great necessity for lower freights as part c of the cost reduction programme, which alone could save the primary industry, the following cablegrams which had passed between himself and the Blue Star Line directors should prove of interest. The first cablegram from the Blue Star Company reads as follows: “We trust you. can interest farmers in our application to participate in New Zealand shipping on the same conditions as other companies. Our line is agreeable to reduced out-ward and inward freights, including wool, and is prepared to consider suggestions for a farmers’ representative on a local advisory board. Our long experience and established fleet of high-class vessels would ensure rapid delivery of chilled beef exports.” To this cablegram Mr. Polson replied: “New Zealand farmers are anxious to» secure a reduction in all freights. I suggest you forward the extent of your price reductions.” Mr. Polson said that the'answer to his cablegrain was forwarded to him A that day from Wellington from the New fi'A Zealand representatives of the Blue Star Company. It stated that the reductions in wool freights would be substantial, Mr. Polson added that the. Blue Star Line having found its operations contracted in the carriage of Argentine meat as a consequence of the quota was seeking new fields. Mr. Polson said he was not at all nervous of the feet that the Blue Star Line was controlled by Vestey and Co., and he did not think opponents of trusts need be worried. He had advised the Blue Star directors to get into immediate touch with the chairmen of the meat and dairy boards, who were at present in London.