TINPLATE FOR NEW ZEALAND

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 91, 10 January 1918, Page 8

TINPLATE FOR NEW ZEALAND

STATEMENT BY THE HON. A. MYERS

ALLOTMENT OF SUPPLIES

Tho Hon. Arthur 'Myers, Minister iu Charge of Munitions and Supplies, interviewed in regard to supplies of tinplate, stated that the High Commissioner had recently cabled stating that he had been able to arrange for what might bo regarded as satisfactory supplies under war conditions, for use in tho Dominion; the position in regard to supplies in the United Kingdom being that the Ministry of Munitions there had set up a committee for the purpose of allocating supplies, the different dominions being rationed with so much for ench.

"The 'High Commissioner lias advised (proceedod Mr. Myers) that approximately 2658 tons of tinplates will probably be made available for shipment to the Dominion during January-June, 1918. It is proposed to allot this quantity in accordance with a schedule shoving New Zealand's full requirements, ■ which was prepared in September last and forwarded to London by the Minister's Department." The Minister stated that as far as lie could judge the quantity allotted to New Zealand , would'meet the full requirements of the Dominion for most essential purposes. However; in the event of reduced supplies being available after June, the question of giving preference to certain essential trades, such as meat, milk, fish, fruit, etc., would have to be given consideration. As regards blackplate steel sheets and steel plates generally, Mr. Myers stated that from the latest advices it .frould appear that the question -of New Zealand s requirements is now under consideration in London. Upon_ receipt of advise as to result, the Minister will be pleased to give further particulars. 'Hie advice goes to indicate that the Ministry of Munitions are endeavouring to make available moderate quantities which are required for essential and national purposes.