Bananas From Fiji.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 July 1921, Page 3

Bananas From Fiji.

AUCKLAND. July 7. An attempt has been made by th principal Auckland firms engaged in the Fiji banana trade to ensure that, better quality fruit shall be obtainable from the islands, particularly during the winter months. Air A. Cleave, n presenting .several of the importing firms, has recently visited Fiji, in an attempt to improve conditions. While there he had an interview with tin Acting-Governor, who took a great interest- in the business, and was astounded when lie was told of the poor quality of the fruit coming to New Zealand. He was told that grading of shipments) before they left Fiji was what was wanted by the Auckland traders. The Acting Governor asked what was suggested to meet the situation. The reply was that there klu.iilt! bo' packing stations on the llnvii river under Government supervision, so Hnif only first-class fruit would be sent I Auckland. This was accepted as being a good idea.

As the result of Air Cleave’s representations, the Acting-Governor sa 1 1 lie would circularise all planters and traders to the effect that in future only prime bananas would lie allowed to come forward for export. Following this, said Air Cleave, the inspectors who had not been as strict in the past as they should have been, had decided that jn future only firs riel ass fruit would be passed. The opinion was also held that the New Zealand Government should not permit Immature fruit to l>e landed. The Fijian grower could produce the bananas, and the regulations should require that only the bosr fruit was sent forward.