THREAT BY FRANCE

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20784, 20 April 1939, Page 4

THREAT BY FRANCE

WOOL REDUCTION MORE IMPORTS WANTZD MINISTER'S ATTITUDE (Special to Times) DUNEDIN, Wednesday The situation that has arisen concerning French wool buying and the import restrictions was discussed yesterday by representatives of buying, broking and shipping organisations. It would appear that, so far from the Christchurch report of an immediate embargo being true, it was never the intention of the French Government to impose a prohibition on wool purchases before May 31. France does not seek an equal balance of trade with New Zealand, but it does ask that, in applying restrictions, the Dominion Government should concentrate on those countries to which New Zealand sells little and give some consideration to its good customers. Revision Suggested Communications received from the French Central Wool Committee and the French Minister of Commerce show definitely that the French Government is prepared to prohibit the importation of New Zealand wool if the New Zealand Government persists in its prohibition of the importation of French goods. This is shown by the fact that the French Government has asked French buying interests in the Dominion to meet and formulate a case and then advise the New Zealand Government of the serious view taken of the virtual embargo that' exists to-day. This has already been done and the Minister of Customs, the Hon. W. Nash, has been asked by French operators to give full consideration to the suggestion of the French Minister of Commerce that the whole matter be made subject to revision. Failing -,uch reconsideration, the French Gov--rnment will, on May 31, consider the possible embargo it will place on the importation of wools of New Zealand origin into France. Relaxation Refused

In accordance with instructions received from the French Government. French buyers in the Dominion made certain representation to Mr Nash. Replying to these on April 5, Mr Nash said: “In imposing such reductions, goods imported from France have been treated no less favourably than goods from any other foreign country. In the circumstances I regret that it is not at present possible lo relax restrictions. The position, however, will be reviewed at a later date, when I shall be glad to consider any representations that may be made by you on the subject. lam also ready to consider at any time any proposals you may make which do not involve any further call on our overseas funds.”