FRUIT MARKET METHODS

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 983, 28 May 1930, Page 11

FRUIT MARKET METHODS

INQUIRY TO BE HELD Press Association WELLINGTON, Tuesday. Finality has been reached by the Government in regard to the promised inquiry into the methods of marketing fruit and vegetables. The Minister of Industries and Commerce, the Hon. J. B. Donald, said today that Cabinet had decided to refer the inquiry to the Industries and Commerce Committee of the House of Representatives early in the coming session. The committee would be asked to hear evidence and furnish a report to the House. The investigation was set on toot as a result of a petition last year to the House of Representatives by the fruit and vegetable retailers of Wellington. It was then decided to set up a departmental inquiry to be conducted by the officers of the Department of Industries and Commerce in March. However, a deputation from various fruiterers, vegetable-growers and fruitgrowers of the Dominion met the Hon. G. W. Forbes, and asked that the inquiry should be made a public one. A deputation from growers and retailers waited upon the Hon. J. B. Donald at Auckland a few days later with a similar request. It was also submitted to the Government that the proposed committee should consist of representatives of the interests concerned, growers, merchants and retailers. It was felt, however, that such a committee could not be expected to work harmoniously. The cost also was expected to be considerable. “In the circumstances,’’ said the Minister today, “the Government has decided to adopt the course mentioned, which will allow of evidence being given by any person who desires to do so.