C—l2

1942. NEW ZEALAND.

KAURI-GUM INDUSTRY (REPORT ON THE) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1942.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly pursuant to Section 5 of the Kauri-gum, Industry Amendment Act, 1914. Department of Lands and Survey, Wellington, Ist August, 1942. Sir, — I have the honour to submit herewith the annual report under the Kauri-gum Industry Amendment Act, 1914, for the year ended 31st March, 1942. I have, &c., R. G. Macmorran, Under-Secretary. The Hon. the Minister of Lands. Activities in the kauri-gum industry over the past twelve months have been, as with other industries, affected by the present unsettled conditions. Digging is not being carried on to the same extent as formerly and the production of gum has accordingly fallen. The demand for the gum remains steady, but the difficulty in arranging shipping accommodation limits the exports. However, at the present time the actual production of gum is still sufficient to meet the demand. The United Kingdom was again the largest purchaser, with the United States of America and Canada also taking a fair share of the market. Prices have risen considerably over the past year and are approximately 40 per cent, to 50 per cent, above what they were two or three years ago. During the year 1,363 tons of gum were exported, of a total value of £86,322. Kauri-gum Industry Account. The assets of the Kauri-gum Industry Account have been realized and the account has been abolished by statute. Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given; printing (468 copies), £1 5s

By Authority: E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.—l 942.

Price 3d. J