RATIONING SCHEME

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 272, 17 November 1943, Page 4

RATIONING SCHEME

Sir,—ln the interests of an informed democratic public opinion we deem it our duty to draw attention to some significant facts in connection with butter production in New Zealand and its effect upon the rationing scheme. In introducing rationing the Government made much play on the theme of more butter for Britain. Naturally, no one could quarrel with such a laudable objective if true in detail, but what does light on the subject show? It shows that even with rationing in full force New Zealand exports to the Old Country will be less than in 1940. In support we quote figures. In 1939-40 New Zealand produced about 200,000 tons of butter. Exports were 139,444 tons. Production in 1942-43 had fallen to approximately 166,474 tons and exports fell to 106.284 tons. About 33,500 tons less production and a decline in export of 33,160 tons. A perusal of this season’s returns shows the alarming fact that a further substantial decline must be expected. Rationing is alleged to conserve 12,000 tons per year, but New Zealand has dropped almost three times this amount in the last two seasons. It does seem, therefore, that a shortsighted view has been taken by the Government of production problems. In his most recent address to Congress President Roosevc | said: “Food is as important a weapon of war as munitions.” We think it will be more important during the approaching peace. In conclusion, we claim that the position regarding production generally and butter in particular should be investigated by fshe best brains in the industry from the all important point of view of manpower and reward to the producers, and the Government. must not be allowed to camouflage the issue by an appeal to sentiments of goodwill towards our folk overseas.—Yours, etc.. WANGANUI BRANCH, N.Z. DEMOCRATIC LABOUR PARTY.