THOUGHTS FOR THE TIMES.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 July 1930, Page 4

THOUGHTS FOR THE TIMES.

STEAMER CURTAILMENT WITH

AUSTRALIA

“It is obviously an economic problem, and the business community canmot blame the Union Company for their action in withdrawing a steamer from the trans-Tasman service,” 1 said Mr Alfred Eady, vice-president of the Council of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, when - commenting on the announcement. “The curtailment of the service may even have the good effect in emphasing the need for great-er-reciprocity between Australia a-iid New Zealand, and more cordial trade relations.”

Mr Eady said it was a remarkable fact that although the population of both countries had increased markedly during recent years, there had been Ia- steady falling off in inter-colonial trade. This was due to progressively bigger tariffs in both ;■ countries, freights having fallen proportionately with the increase of duties; -;v The matter had engaged the earnest" attention of delegates at the recent Dominion conference of Chambers of Commerce, and a resolution was passed deploring the increasing asperity in trade relations between New Zealand 'and Australia. “The action of the Union Company may impress upon the business communities and .the governments of both countries the, fact that closer and more cordial trade relations will he to the benefit of both,” lie added.