N.Z. PRODUCTS

Hokitika Guardian, 17 June 1932, Page 6

N.Z. PRODUCTS

MARKETING NEEDS

VIEWS OF MINISTER. , (By Telegraph—Per Press Association) .'//. PALMERSTON N., June 17. Emphasis was laid upon the needs for opening up new markets for New Zealand’s products by the Hon R. Masters, Minister of Industries and Commerce, speaking at the National Dairy Show function last evening. The Minister stated that by virtue of;his office, it was hi,s duty to assist ill' the. development of both, secondary and primary industries. 3 hey had failed up to the present to apply scientific methods to the marketing of their products. Over 92 pel' cent, went to Great Britain alone, while exports to other countries spread all over the world.

•>;ln 19T4, he said, butter, valued at £24,0Q0;000 went to Great Britain from,:. ail sources, while to-day, the figure was £45,(100,000. The markets had- to be developed in other places. ■Ho expressed doubt whether primary producers boards were giving as much attention to the marketing end as to ; Ihe manufacturing side. His job as Minister was not that of the toommerclal traveller;' for he did not sell produce. The function of his Department was to obtain information, and it was'at the disposal of farmers. There had been an increase,.of £22,000,000 in the butter sent into Britain while the increase in population wa« only two millions. Butter had to he at a low price to complete with margarine. Of the produce sent t 9 Britain £8,000,000 worth was re-exported to the Continent.. There was something wrong '■ there, and the Dominion should exploit that market herself. Coilcliiiding, the Minister said that Boards should, he- stimulated liy greater activity iii the marketing end of tlhe jbu&iness;.All which applied Ito the business man applied equally (well to the farmers. The Prime Minister was also present at the 'function, and made a spirited appeal to the people to face their troubles by going straight ahead, and doing all they can for the country’s benefit, j “Tliis is not the time for pessimism,” he' said. “These times are to fes t the mettle- of the people, and I believe the time is coming soon when the sun will shine again.” Tile lessons New Zealand , had- learned through the present difficulties would lie taken full advantage of, as far as New Zealand was concerned. Mr Forbes traced the difficulties the Government had encountered since entering into office, and the steps taken to meet' the situation proved that the .adjustment was painful, ..but when conditions changed, -the D.omhiion wo.ulcl be in the position to make- great -progress. / .“With such people, and such a fertile country, nothing can keep us down,” he- concluded'.'""T C Hon. C. J. Macmillan, Minister of Mines and Agriculture was also present.