PRODUCERS AND SHIPS

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 162, 5 April 1921, Page 5

PRODUCERS AND SHIPS

Sir, —Tho producers wish to establish their own shipping service, and suggest that the Government assist financially. This proposal has been launched at a most inopportune time, as every section of the community is facing a restricted income. The Government will be unable to find money for new ventures, as decreased income tax, stamp duties, and Customs duties will certainly mean a deficit next year instead of the usual sur-,. plus. The producers cannot reasonably expect the Government to increase their financial obligations, and are becoming ■ rather like it son, who grows old in hi# father’s 'home, and'is always looking to that father for money and advice, and. never makes any effort to become Jnde- ■ pendent. The producers must stop visit-, ing the home of their wet nurse, Mr.. Massey, and find n way out themselves.. Might not that way be found by making a proposal to the Canadian Govern-) ment, that they insulate several more of ; their very fine cargo steamers and run' a regular service to. England. The pro-> ducers could agree to find the outward: cargoes, nnd the capital to insulate the ships and tho various co-operative com- ' panics could find return cargoes. The Canadian Government have. 1 understand, some fifty vessels in their fleet: and an established organisation to work them. Freight hn.rd to obtmn on tli® Canadian-and American coasts nt present, and a proposal such as this migiit be welcomed. Mr. Massey is leaving for ■ Home shortly, and could put the business throuqih' in Ottawa, if tho producers conference worked n Wo are rather fond of talking of o rister Dominion, and here is a chance to see if we are really one family or oril. ™ IC^RD WOTE . Feilding.