FRUIT CONTAINER CHARGES

Chronicle (Levin), 4 February 1947, Page 3

FRUIT CONTAINER CHARGES

AUCKLAND, Feb. 3. In conformity witli conditions on other niain markots in Nevv Zealand, a cliarge of 4d on containers for peaclics, plums and noctarincs will be nnposed in Auckland citv markets tliis morning, according to Mr. C. C. King, secretarv of tlie Auckland Fruit an,d Vegetable Retailers' Association. Tlie niajoritv of nstailers had refrained from buying tliese fruits as a protest against the cliarge. He atlded the retailers will meet again this evvening (o reconsider the whole matter. Alerchants said therc was no difliculty in disposing of stocks owing to the uusatislied demand for stone fruits. fruits. Mr. »S. M. Conway, secretarv of the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Fruitgrowers' Federalion, said growers would prefer an amicable agreemeut with the retailers and, if possible would like to e.vplain their cass. Piekets will be placcd by the executive of the Auckland Ueta.il Friuterers' Association around • city markets to morrow morning to warn retailers not to buy stone fruit cairving Uie container charge of 4d wliich lias been iinposed by the auctioneers. A meeting of all retailers will be ealled at the markets to decide whether tlio eontainer charge will bc paid and uiif.il a decision is reached, the retailers' executive will do all in ils jiower to preveut retailers buying stone fruit.