TRADE PROSPECTS

Hokitika Guardian, 27 December 1928, Page 1

TRADE PROSPECTS

HOPES FOB NEW YEA!?

(United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright)

LON DON. Decern her 2!

Prospects for 1928, measured by the hopes of a year ago, are disappointing according to Air Ebbisham, president of the Federation of Industries, There have not been any gains, but nevertheless there have not been losses.

■•This is the quietest year since the Armistice.” he said. “World conditions are more settled, and disputes in Britain are notably absent. There has been a material shrinkage in the adverse trade balance. Regeneration and reorganisation of industry have been undertaken, which should provide a basis for substantial results in 1020.” Mr Hitchens, of Cammell. Laird. Ltd., is despondent, and does not see signs of a marked revival. Steel orders are scarce, and prices are keenly cut. The chief hope lies in 1 the recent important steps to reorganise industry. Far-reaching adjustments arc inevitable. Shipbuilding is similarly depressed! There is no sign of a solution. The capacity of the British yards exceeds the demand. There 'is no in dication that the demand will be swlfidontly expanding . Mr Ren Tilled believes that if Britpresents a united front she can '■ompete with America. Frame, and Germany. s -.

He is ot opinion that all the cembin ;> r .;; c . Conferences between employers and, trades unions constitute a genuine gestmc, and are capable ot worMiir. wonderful changes for the country good and the betterment df trade. Labour must be prepared to shoulder M:e increased responsibility which aißes from a bigger share in industi.x. Lahour is willing to co-operate under fan conditions, but there must be more 1 rust am! less suspicion. A good lean, work can produce the progress that cvcrvbody desires.