TRADE WITH NORFOLK

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 903, 21 February 1930, Page 7

TRADE WITH NORFOLK

PRIVATE LINE’S SERVICE URGED A SUBSIDY NEEDED? The Auckland Chamber of Commerce is trying to get a private firm to institute a shipping service between New Zealand and Norfolk Island, following on the intended withdrawal of tlie Government vessel Maui Pomare. The subject was discussed at a meeting the council of the climabor held vesterday afternoon. A letter from the Hon. J. B. Donald, Minister of Industries and Commerce, was read. Tie said the results of the Government's efforts to establish trade with Norfolk had been so successful as to warrant the matter being given favourable consideration by private interests. He hoped the chamber would endeavour to influence private firms to tako up the service. The chamber has been in touch with D W. McKay, Ltd., of Invercargill, owner of the ex-Government vessel Hinemoa, with a view to that firm put - ting the ship back on the Norfolk Island run. A letter from them stated that on account of the very large complement demanded on the Hinemoa bA the Seamen’s Union, a considerable subsidy would be needed to induce the firm to give tiie proposal favourable consideration, as unaided trading would be run at a great loss. All- M. Stewart, acting-president of the council, said Mr. Donald seemed to think the trade could be run at a profit unsubsidised. In the meantime nothing further could be done, pending final word from D. 4V. M. McKay, Ltd., tho firm s final decision awaiting the return of its execut ve head, who was at present away.