EFFECT OF IMPORT LICENSING

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 152, 23 March 1939, Page 8

EFFECT OF IMPORT LICENSING

Drop In Port Revenue Expected

WELLINGTON MAY SUFFER MOST

Expectation that the licensing of imports would affect the revenue of the Wellington Harbour Board adversely’ and more directly than other ports was voiced by the chairman, Mr. C. M. Turrell, in his address at the annual meeting last night. They did not want to part with any of their permanent staff, or casuals for that matter, he said, and all they could do was to hope for the best. “The past year has shown record figures," he said, “but I think it can be safely said that the trade outlook for 1939-1940 is not so good. The effect of the restrictions imposed by the Government on importations from overseas will make itself felt in the latter part of this year, aud it appears that the board, for at least some months, can look forward to a drop in its import figures. “As the principal source of our revenue comes from import cargo and shipping, and as so many of our employees are engaged directly in the receiving and delivering of these goods, it follows that the board, more than most other harbour boards in New Zealand, is directly affected by any reduction in the volume of imports to be handled over our wharves. The system at other main ports in New Zealand does not involve the employment by their harbour boards of a large number of permanent and casual men in the handling of inward cargoes. “It has been stated that the recent import regulations imposed by the Government are meant to bring about a reallocation of goods from overseas countries rather than a reduction in the total volume. Members will appreciate the position that may arise in keeping the board’s present cargo-handling staff and appliances economically employed. A careful watch will have to be kept as the position develops and all efforts made to see that the present financial position is not unduly affected. I can only hope that the board will not find it necessary to curtail the plan of future harbour development it has in mind.”