WOOL RETURNS

Hokitika Guardian, 18 April 1928, Page 4

WOOL RETURNS

THREE AND A HALF MILLION RISE. WELLINGTON, April IG. Preliminary figures regarding New Zealand wool sales cover nine months of the present season and enable a close estimate to be made of the total returns from the Dominion’s flocks. The quality of the wool showed some improvement, as growing conditions were even and the sheep came through the winter in excellent condition. There was an actual increase in wool production per sheep, which some authorities place at four ounces per fleece. This, coupled with increased stocks, lias made for a substantial gain in the returns, while greatly-improved prices have further given advantage to pastoralists. The actual figures for the nine months ended March 31 of New Zealand sales are as follow, compared with the corresponding period | of 1920-27:

1928. 1927. Rales. Rales. Offerings ... 538.870 519,50 S Sold 520,303 502,980 The number of hales sold in 1028 shows an increase of 26.406 on the number sold in 1027.

The well-organised wool sales in New Zealand have succeeded in retaining for sale in the Dominion almost tli’ full clip, as the proportion dealt with this season was 93 per cent of all the cere: 1 , sy woo 1. Another ranking for confidence in the future is that tlier” is no carry-over, as it is believed tha the wool now held in stores on owners account does not amount to five bun dred bales.

Last season’s clip produced a return of £9,000,000. This season’s, tak ing into account the heavier weight and improved prices, shows an ndvnno; of at least £3.500,000, making a tota ! of £12,500.000.