A FLAX DIFFICULTY

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 86, 4 January 1918, Page 8

A FLAX DIFFICULTY

REQUEST TO PRIME MINISTER. By Teleeraph—Press Association. Auckland, January 3. Auckland merchants interested in the export of flax aud tow are making representations to the Prime Minister with a view to having the immediate imposition of increased freights reconsdered by the Imperial authorities. A deputation waited on Mr. Myers to-day, and stated that early last September, at the request of the Governmen, a eouference of the representatives of the iiax industry was held at Wellington, at which tho Prime Minister presided. After taking inta consideration tho cost of production, freight, and other charges, it was decided to agree to a maximum price for "good fair hemp" in London, which meant the reduction of about £12 a ton on the prices then ruling. It was further stated that a sudden imposition of extra, charges would mean a loss to Auckland Merchants alone, of about £25,000 ou tho flax now awaiting shipment. Tho suggestion was made that the Prime Minister should represent the position to the Imperial authorities, and, if possible, arrange that all contracts proved to have been entered. nto before the advance in freight, should be carried out at the old rate of freight, and that flax and tow for Great Britain in store when increase transpired should ho carried at the old rate. Mr. Myers promised to support the request.