THE CYCLE TRADE

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2173, 31 August 1907, Page 2

THE CYCLE TRADE

DEPUTATION TO THE MINISTER OF CUSTOMS. THREATENED DUMPING FROM AUSTRALIA. (Special to Times.) WELLINGTON, August 29. A deputation representing the Christchurch bicycle manufacturers, dealers and employees had the good fortune after the exercise of some patient waiting to obtain an interview with the Hon. J. A. Millar this morning. The -deputation consisted of Messx-s E. H. Summers G. Milne, and A. R. Barker, and were introduced by Mr. Ell M.H.R. They brought before the Minister the hardship which would be inflicted on cycle manufacturers if the proposals in the tariff regarding bicycle fittings were agreed to, and stated that the allegation made in the House on Wednesday evening that all parts used in the manufacture of cycles were on the free list, was not accurate. Further, they succeeded in convincing Mr. Millar that several parts consisting of ballhead, complete bottom bracket, complete chain and chain-wheels, hubs, etc. were not on the free list, but subject to a duty of 20 per cent. Ac an indication of the present state of cycle manufacturing in the colony the deputation stated that in •Christchurch, the centre of the industry, firms that five years ago were each employing from 30 to 40 hands are now only employing 12. This is due to the importation of the cheap English-built article. , The Minister expressed his desire to assist the trade, and stated that he was prepared to place the parts mentioned by the deputation on the free list.

This decision is of great importance to the industry, but it is doubtful whether it will be effective in preventing the dumping of cheap machines from tho Commonwealth. According to information received by one New Zealand firm it is the intention of largo importers in Australia in viow of the proposed Commonwealth duty of £5 per machine not to clear tho machines they have arriving, but to send them on to this country.. It is understood that an attempt is to made by those interested in the cycle trade in Wellington to as'k the Minister to place a duty of £2 each on all imported machines irrespective of tho country of manufacture. It is not thought likely that tho Minister will favorably consider this request.