N.Z. WOOL

Hokitika Guardian, 15 August 1928, Page 1

N.Z. WOOL

THE SEASON’S PROSPECTS. AUCKLAND, Aug. 13. “If New Zealand wool producers followed the advice of some and concentrated on the production c-f fine wools, I think it would be a great mistake and would involve a loss o money. Your producers are carrying on along the right lines with the Border and stronger class of wools, many of the grades being practically ideal and some open to improvement. This opinion was expressed by Mr Robert R. WPm PiPßrletcw! gf the large Australian-woolbroking firm of William Haugbton and Company, and a director of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Air AlcComas is returning to Australia l.y the Niagara after an extended tour abroad. His firm has considerable interests in New Zealand. In the course of liis travels Air AlcConias vjsited such wool-consum-ing countries as Great Britain Belgium, France, and the United States, coming into contact with those interested in the industry. Discussing he future, he said it was most difficult to prophesy the extent of the demand and prices so far as the approaching selling season in Australia and New Zealand was concerned’. One pleasing feature abroad was that there was no serious carry-

over. Supplies from the Northern Hemisphere were now being marketed and might have a slightly depressing effect. “It can reasonably be expected that by the time the New Zealand and Australian sales open the northern supplies will he absorbed, leaving the market demand sufficient to absorb the clips of the Dominion and and the Commonwealth, Air AieComns stated: “This is an indication that prices will he favourable.” Dealing with New Zealand wool, Air Alt-Comas said tlie present quality was filling a distinct need in the markets of the world. Our wool was broad and strong. \\ hat had to be avoided was a fleece containing kempy wool which would not take dyes. Notwithstanding opinions to the contrary that wool of 70 quality and finer was the least saleable, there was a strong demand for 50’s and 58’s used for strong knitted goods, bathing costumes, etc. These wools formed the large bulk of New Zealand production and the demand for them had no doubt been a large factor in reducing the price of the higher quality wools. Discussing the vogue of artificial silk, Air AfcConnis said lie noted a remarkable improvement in the quality of the goods produced, but he did not consider the artificial silk as a serious competitor with wool. The temporary setback of the woollen industry could be largely attributed to fluctuating prices which made the outlook from the point of view of the producer very uncertain.

Summing (up his impressions, Air AlcConias said he could not see reason for any lessening in the competition for New Zealand and Australian wool during the coming season.