TRADING WITH GERMANY.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 2025, 6 September 1919, Page 2

TRADING WITH GERMANY.

SOM E months hack a considerable 'commotion stirred (he placid waters of our little community in reference to the acceptance of an offer to the local School Committee of a secondhand piano purchased in pre-war limes, for use in the school. There was an outpouring of jingoistic patriotism which provided considerable amusement to outsiders—-and not a little ridicule —while those responsible for (he outburst bad the satisfaction of creating a feeling of bitterness in the community, the effects of which are still apparent. However, at (lie time it was pointed out that if Germany was to pay the indemnity justly demanded of her it would be necessary to trade with her. This week's cables inform us that on September Ist Anglo-Ger-man trade was resumed. Some leading British linns, (irmly refuse orders, but confess it will be difficult to avoid dealing ultimately, owing to the competition of numerous smaller houses unless the Government limits dumping. Others are frankly slocking German Christmas goods, finding (he prices irresistible. English manufacturers, of textiles admit that they are still tremendously handicapped owing to the extreme cheapness and high quality of German dyes. A reference is made to German pianos “offered for £3O, which arc the equal in quality of English instruments costing £135, while engineering supplies are quoted at forty per cent, under the English.” Patriotism is a very fine thing so long ns it does not, touch the pocket, and while- we believe some restrictions should be placed ojl Gorman manufactures in order to protect our own industries, the foreign importations will • have a ehcelc on profiteering.