BRITISH TRADE.

Hokitika Guardian, 9 June 1926, Page 4

BRITISH TRADE.

EFFECT OF STRIKE FELT. LONDON, .1 uno A Prolongation of the coal stoppage has had the effect of checking business on tlio Stock Exchange, as ,n----vestors were inclined t/j show caution. The markets as a whole have 'wen stagnant, but gilt-edgeds remain firm, despite the absence of business, and the success of New Zealand’s loan 1 ad an exhilarating effect on all colonials, most cf which have appreciated in value ,as a result of this loan, of which scrip is now quoted at £1 11s (id premium. This obviously " indicates that there is plenty of money available for good investment stock, offered on favourable terms, and consequently it is not surprising to hear that other colonial issues are being prepared. No official information <s at present available, but it is generally understood that Victoria and the Fommonwenlth of Australia are likely to be the next borrowers, and that neither should have' any difficulty in filling requirements. THE BUTTER MARKET.

Butter prices are well maintained, although buyers arc not particularly active. Most of them are awaiting developments. They aro fully aware that prospective supplies 'from Australia and New Zealand -are considerably less than this time last year, but against this they set a large increase in Home '.and Continental production, and a large quantity is known to be held in cold stores. One important factor in the butter situation just now is the probable diminution of the demand owing 'to the late general strike and the coal stoppage, which has ieduced the purchasing power of many

members of the community, and is likely to cause them to abandon butter for margarine. APPLE TRADE. Trade in apples is being adversely affected by railway transport difficulties, due to the coal shortage.. Provincial buyers cannot depend on receiving supplies by rail, consequently they are reducing purchases, and prices have given way somewhat, chief-

ly for common varieties and over-ripe fruit. In view of the enormous quantity of 'apples already here and afloat, a further reduction in values may be expected, especially as the supplies of soft fruits are now steadily increasing. So far these have been much smaller than was anticipated owing to the cold, wet weather here and on the Continent, but a glut of them is expected shortly.