THE WOOLLEN INDUSTRY.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume L, Issue 60, 29 August 1907, Page 2

THE WOOLLEN INDUSTRY.

Per Press Association. Wellington, August 28. A deputation gf woollen manufacturers waited on the Hon. Mr Millar today to request the retention of ono shilling per pound duty on raw cotton, ft , this duty were removed, It was pointed out it would be an inducement to some manufacturers to turn out -shoddy. The reputation of New Zealand woollens had been built up on pure wool, Last year 87,000 pounds of raw .cotton liad been imported, and practically all was used to adulterate woollen goods. Alter stating these facts, Mr Hercus, manager of Kaipoi, suggested that mills should be encouraged in the production of a"\ pure article. - 7 ' The Minister said that the dutv was originally imposed .under the belief that _ New Zealand manufacturers liad agreed not to use it. Experts advised him that a certain percentage of cotton improved the manufactured article. Samples of colonial woollens had been tested and found to contain cotton. He produced specimens. He had not altered the duty, fearing .that some mills might have to shut down, as he knew of two that would if a prohibitive duty were enforced; He thought the law should require a true description of materials stamped on goods. He had prepared a Bill on the lines operating ii> Australia, and he hoped to bring it forward this session.