N.Z. INCREASE IN FRUIT PRODUCTION OFF SMALLER AREA

Grey River Argus, 11 August 1948, Page 2

N.Z. INCREASE IN FRUIT PRODUCTION OFF SMALLER AREA

WELLINGTON, Aug. 10. Despite increased production there had been a reduction of fruit acreages in the Dominion up to last year, said the Minister of Agriculture, Mr Cullen, opening \the annual conference of the New Zealand Fruitgrowers’ Federation to-day. He felt, however, that with new tree planting a decline in acreages had been arrested. In connection with the proposed apple and pear marketing agreement, the Minister said the industry needed protection, so that the individual’s return might be safeguarded. He gave an assurance' that a costs survey would be taken into account in this connection. He would move for greater cool store accommodation for fruit. Fruit had been handled with expedition in most parts of New Zealand, added Mr Cullen, and a total of 1,021,000 cases of apples and pears had been dealt with. The Minister expressed regret that there had been no distribution of apples to New Zealand school children this year and said he would move for the reintroduction of this distribution. New Zealand apples at present on the British market were opening up well, according to reports received from the United Kingdom. Among the sources of such reports was Buckingham Palace, where the High Commissioner, Mr Jordan, had sent a case