H.—44

Business has been quiet, and competition from imported printed matter has, in certain lines, been keen. Those engaged in the industry consider, however, that the coming year should see a decided improvement in conditions in the printing trade. Brush and Broom Making. Official statistics, year ended 31st March 1925, 1926. 1927. Establishments (number) .. .. .. 10 11 12 Employees (number) .. .. .. 212 249 238 Wages paid .. .. .. .. £35,616 £39,103 £42,571 Value of output .. .. .. .. £113,313 £120,675 £130,287 Value added by manufacture .. .. £58,609 £69,826 £74,777 Imports, calendar years : — Brushes, brushware, and brooms .. .. £111,069 £83,779 £64,723 The statistics to date show that this industry is generally maintaining its position. The value of imports has fallen very considerably since 1925. Our brush-factories are equipped with the most modern appliances, and practically every class of brush can be and is being made in the Dominion. Prices of imported brushware have been greatly reduced since 1925, and competition in the lower-grade articles has during recent years been very keen.

4—H. 44.

25