Lower Freights.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 829, 1 August 1933, Page 6

Lower Freights.

Advocacy by Importers Association. A MEETING of the Canterbury Importers’ Association the matter of overseas freights was considered. Figures showing the pre-war rates of freight on a number of lines were submitted, revealing an average increase of 106 per cent on imports. It was stated that exporting interests had been consulted and information had been supplied indicating an approximate increase of 64 per cent in freights on primary products. In view of the fact that throughout the world charges of all descriptions had been reduced it was considered that shipping companies should make some concessions. It was decided to ask the New Zealand Federation of Importers to bring pressure to bear, if necessary through the Government by cabling to Mr Forbes in London. Stress was laid on the fact that high charges such as freights, exchange, duty and sales tax all combined to restrict consumption and this acted as one of the causes of depression and unemployment. It was urged that great efforts were being made by manufacturers and sellers of goods to market at low prices, and shipping companies should do their share.