THE MEAT COMMANDEER

Southland Times, Issue 18843, 8 June 1920, Page 5

THE MEAT COMMANDEER

SOUTHLAND’S SERIOUS POSITION,

On May 21 the Hon. A. F. Hawke telegraphed to the Right lion, W. E. Massey aa follows: —

■‘The decision of the Imperial Government in regard to the meat commandeer leaves Southland in an unfavourable and serious position, owing to the delay in ships arriving at Blul't due to pressure to clear the North Island works. The steamer Opawa has only just arrived at Bluff instead of a fortnight ago, and the freezing works will be unable to handle bookings of stock and the surplus in the country before June 30. It is particularly desired that the commandeer, so far as Southland is concerned, should be extended to July 31. Producers and all concerned will feel greatly obliged for any endeavours on our behalf to have the commandeer extended for one month. I would ask you to bear in mind that Southland is the latest district in New Zealand to get its meat away. The season usually extends to September each year. If the commandeer closes down in June Southland will suffer more than any other part. Thus telegram is sent at. the instance o{ the A. and P. Association, the Farmers’ Union, freezing companies, wool brokers and Chambers of Commerce.” A telegram in reply was received last night. It stated that Mr Massey was again in communication with (he Imperial Government on the matter.