Producers’ Conference

Hokitika Guardian, 1 April 1921, Page 4

Producers’ Conference

BY TIvI.KOJIAI’II —VIIKSS ASSN., COPYRIGHT. WELLINGTON, Alnrcli 31. Tli,. Producers’ Conference decided to refer proposals to the Producers’ Committee already set up at a former conference. having full power, with con eurrence of the Minister to take d'finite immediate action. Proposals for the establishment of a Producers’ Mercantile Shipping Board were presented by C. A. de Latour. A resolution was passed that the conference wished to affirm the principle that Mr Massey, while in England, be given an absolutely free haul to disil with the question of the wool profits, held by the Imperial Govern - moot on account of producers, without the necessity of further reference of ike matter back to New Zealand. It also was resolved: “That in vie v of the fact that the country is being subjected to great loss by work on the waterfront being frequently ink irrupted by trivial disputes and as no other solution seems to be possible, the legislation giving preference to unionists.'’

FREIGHT QUESTIONS

WELLINGTON, March 31. The Freezing Companies Commit'-’c recommended that one and a half years contract be negotiated with the shipping companies upon the most favourable terms obtainable The Conference adopted a recommendation referring to shipping freights At the Conference Air Massey dealt with a suggestion that the shipping companies should, by legislation be declared common carriers, as was done ,n every other country, but in New Znkuul. He said instructions had bum given to the Law Department to vpare legislation necessary to make 'he principle that ships are common earrnos apply to this country. Air W. 1). J.ynsar: “Would you make t'leni subject to the Commercial Trusts Act, to prevent rebates?” Mr Massey said lie thought that A“t applied to them. Air Lynsar:—“l do not think -o; but if ther P is not, will you make Die shipping companies subject to it?” Air Massey:—“That is a policy matter. It will ba considered by Cabinet.” Air Lvsnar pressed to know if 'r. would be favourably considered. Air Massey assured the Conference that both he and his colleagues would do their best for the primary industries.