THE BRITISH MARKET

Hokitika Guardian, 17 June 1931, Page 2

THE BRITISH MARKET

DUMPING 13? RUSSIA. AUCKLAND, June 15. Referring .to the 'British market for New Zealand's primary products on his return from abroad by the Niagara today, Mr A. iM. Samuel, M.P. .for Thames said the greatest danger to the Dominion a.t present was Russia, which was swamping England with butto-, and was determined to undersell any other competitor. “Unfortunately,” he continued, ‘‘there is no tariff barrier, and the' product of Russia is being blended with the butter of the British Dominions, and purchasers do not know that they are buying Russian butter. Although it is alleged that this butter is manufactured under labour conditions which ‘would not be tolerated in New Zealand or any other Dominion, I am informed that the, quality is quite satisfactory. Just before I left London a shipment of Siberian butter packed in barrels, valued at £2,000,000, was landed. Although there is an outcry against this dumping, the British Government say they are powerless to interfere. “There is urgent necessity for New Zealand to extend her markets overseas, especially in England. There are great potential markets, which require direct shipments, especially Glasgow. New Zealand must remember that owing .to low prices buyers are unusually critical, and .it is imperative to keep the standard high.

IMPORTANCE of quality, “It is essential lhat there should b® the strictest examination of our cheese from the quality standpoint, and our cheese and butter position will have to be carefully watched it we are to maintain our reputation on the overseas markets. There is a danger of New Zealand butter losing its identity, as it- is being blended in England, and branded ‘Empire product-.’ Our lamb is highly thought of, but it is advisable that shippers should not send any inferior carcases, as their sale is apt to have an adverse reaction on our meat generally. It would be better if we sent superfine quality only. The honev position is good. “We have an excellent set of primary producers’ representatives in London, and they are doing everything possible under most trying conditions.”