N.Z. MANUFACTURERS

Hokitika Guardian, 25 November 1927, Page 4

N.Z. MANUFACTURERS

OEGaNISATION SCI IEAIE. APPROVED.

AUCKLAND. Nov. 22. At the first annual conference yesterday of the New Zealand Manufacturers’ Federation a scheme for the organisation of tlie federation was submitted by Air F. Campbell on behalf of tlie Wellington Association. The scheme aimed at tlie establishment of a continuously working body, and the gradual formation of departments to deal with all 'questions of a national character. It was proposed to appoint- a Dominion organiser with specialised industrial knowledge to further the interests of file manufacturers, primary and secondary. . Asked what he anticipated the annual expenditure would be Air Ca'.npbe said that £SOO per annum form each of the four associations would be sufficient to start the scheme, hut £12,00!) a year would be nearer the sum required to put it- into full operation eventually. Effective organisation would result in great lxmetHaccruing to large and small manuiacturers alike in encouraging the demand for New Zealand goods. increasing efficienty and in seriously tackling transportation problems. He was net satisfied that tlie passing of remits and resolutions would lead anywhere. The employment of a well-paid organiser wr.s absolutely necessary .as voluntary officers eou-d not be expected to devote the time and energy required. The chairman said that after hearing Air Campbell he had reconsidered [his Original opinion that the proposals were premature.

The conference affirmed the principle of the scheme outlined, and ,it was decided to place the proposals before the provincial associations lor their consideration. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year: President, Mr J. Sutherland Ross (Dunedin) ; vicepresident, Mr F. Campbell (Wellington); secretary, Mr It. Fdmonds (Wellington) ; honorary trcasurer, Mr F. W. Vosselcr, (Wellington). The conference decided to endorse a remit protesting against the "i----crea.se in State interference in private enterprise, and urging the penl of legislation curtailing legitimate trading. Further, that any •business already entered into b\ die

Government should be subject to t'ne same laws, regulations, taxes and conditions as private concerns. The matter of choosing a brand for use on New Zealand made goods, in case© where mnuufaeturius wish to so brand their • goods, was referred to the Canterbury Association.

'liic recommendation that in all Government specifications for eontracts, and purchases of goods, provision be made for New Zealand-made goods and that where llrilisli is specified. the words “New Zealand for preference’” lie added, was endorsed.

The business of the conference concluded and a party of delegates will visit the hottle factory of the Australian Glass Manufacturers Company at Penrose, to-morrow afternoon.