MERGER APPROVED

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 760, 5 September 1929, Page 7

MERGER APPROVED

ECONOMY IN BRICK PRODUCTION MINISTERIAL SUPPORT (THE S UN'S Parliamentary Reporter) PARLIAMENT BLDGS.. Wed. Approval of the recent North Island Brick Company amalgamation has been voiced by the Minister of Industries and Commerce, the Hon. J. G. Cobbe, who has promised his department’s assistance in effecting economies in brick production. Mr. H. G. R. Mason (Auckland Suburbs) asked the Minister what steps he was taking to protect the public against the oppression of a monopoly so powerful. “From inquiries made it is shown that there are apparently 29 brick and tile and concrete pipe factories in the North Island.” said the Minister, “and further it was ascertained that 14 of this number are concerned in the merger referred to. By the amalgamation of these interests it is confidently anticipated that the public will benefit in securing better quality bricks, as the advice of experts will be made available to each unit. “Economy in production, transport and distribution are stated to be the objective of the merger. No rise in the price of the commodities referred to is contemplated. I have instructed the department to keep in close touch with the management and afford the merger every assistance in bringing about economies and efficiency in this important industry.”