IMPORTATIONS OF FLOUR.

Waikato Times, Volume 102, Issue 17006, 20 January 1927, Page 6

IMPORTATIONS OF FLOUR.

POSITION CAREFULLY WATCHED. STATEMENT BY* MINISTER. (By Telegranh—Pres.t! Association.) WELLINGTON, Wednesday. Interviewed yesterday on the subject of imports of Hour, the Minister of Customs (Hon. Downio Stewart) stated: "Careful inquiries have been made in Australia as to the accuracy of the information submitted to the Customs Department on export prices as compared with Australian and local home consumption prices, the large difference between export prices to New Zealand and Australian home prices sometimes amounting to £3 per ton. As shown in the newspapers, the market quotations are not confirmed by our inquiries in Australia. Moreover, it must be remembered that export prices from Australia are for cash, and local sales are on credit, involving the risk of loss by bad debts; also delivery of local sales arc at a fixed price over a certain radius, whereas the exporter has merely to deliver at the dock. Importations of flour so far have been normal, and not more lhan are necessary for the requirements of the Dominion. The position is being closely watched, and dumping duties will be imposed by Hie Government whenever it is shown circumstances warrant it. allowing for Ihe factors above indicated. Importers are aware that duties can be imposed at any time." PERSONAL TD The death is reported of Mr H. Mr Martin Smith was for 46 years a Mr Martin Smith was for 40 years a surveyor in the Government employ.