IMPORT RESTRICTIONS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 254, 27 October 1939, Page 5

IMPORT RESTRICTIONS

BRITISH M WLFACTURERS EXPRESSIONS Ol ALARM f Per I’ A•>*•. «; •;. r i WELLINGTON. Oct. 26. A .special meeting of the council of the United Kingdom Manufacturers and New Zealand Representatives' Association was held yesterday to consider the import licence schedules just issued. A statement issued to-day for the council says: “Grave concern is expressed at the fact that although the import regulations have been in force nearly a year, it is still necessary to place severe restrictions on various classes of imports from the United Kingdom. It was reported that, within the last few days, some firms dealing only in United kingdom goods had decided to close down, with the consequent dismissal of staffs, and there was m doubt that this position would be accelerated as many firms had carried on until now in the hope of an easing of restrictions. The effect of the restrictions would extend from the importing sid< to i t . ng nterM ests, and it was feared that unless a great deal of modification was made a serious unemployment problem would result. Some of tho businesses already closing down had been in existence for many years and dealt In nothing but United Kingdom product*. Problems arising from the difficulty of oversea.* suppliers obtaining immediate payment for goods shipped to New Zealand were also considered. As a preliminary step toward finding some solution of the present grave difficulties faced by importing, retailing and local manufacturing interests, it was decided to support the holding of a national conference composed of all interested bodies and immediate stop* toward this end have been taken. The council decided that the association do all in its power to obtain modification of the present restrictions. the effect of which was being felt, not only by the commercial interests and primary producers, but also by the consuming public. Many lines were already in short supply and v. ould soon be unobtainable. Report* received from interests in the United Kingdom indicated that in spite of the war the United Kingdom was determined to maintain its export trade. In fact, it was essential that this he done. The council realised that the availability of sterling exchange had i nearing on the subject, but felt that • •onsideration of the whole position at -* national conference should result in obtaining the best indication of what ourse should be adopted to find a Motion of the present position.