INDUSTRIES OF COMMERCE

Hokitika Guardian, 7 August 1930, Page 5

INDUSTRIES OF COMMERCE

INQUIRY HELD,

(By Telegraph—Per Press Association

WELLINGTON, Aug. .7

The inquiry by the Industries of Commerce Committee of the House of Representatives into the marketing of fruit and vegetables opened to-day, Wellington evidence being taken. Mr Campbell, Director of Horticulture, considered that if the methods <f distribution were improved and fruit sold at a reasonable price, people could consume all fruit grown in the Dominion. He thought that if the number of shops were reduced less fruit would be consumed. He had a lot of sympathy with the retailer in the prices he charged,because he had to face losses not common to other retailers. He mentioned that another obstacle to the retailer was the fact of a certain amount of dishonest packing. < The volume placed on the market daily made it impossible for a comprehensie inspection to be made and oiie of the improvements suggested by retailers was compulsory standardisation. K That scheme was carried \ out iji parts of Canada and the United States. It wua essential that something should bo done to prevent the inferior being covered by the better class;of product at the market,