BRITISH FOOD SUPPLIES

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21187, 9 August 1940, Page 4

BRITISH FOOD SUPPLIES

“Cool stores in Britain are so packed with foodstuffs that it has been found necessary to limit imports of meat from Australia during the next few months,” states a cable from London. The first reaction to this news is of gratitude that the country which is fighting for its life is at least well supplied with food which its enemies lack. The news must be disheartening to Germany, which has been claiming that its counter-blockade has reduced Britain to a desperate position. There is something very reassuring in the knowledge that the centre of the Empire has an almost inexhaustible supply of the necessaries of life to draw upon as long as it can keep the seaways open. The statement does, however, cause producers in the Dominions to wonder whether Britain will have use for a continued high volume of production when many of the stores are full. In this connection the statement by the Hon. W. Nash on Wednesday night was interesting. The Minister spoke with particular regard to cheese and left no doubt that Britain was emphatic that she wanted at least 15,000 tons more cheese from New Zealand this season. In the cheese stores at least Britain evidently has ample room, and no effort should be spared to supply the need. The position is the same with regard to bacon, eggs and other products. Regarding meat there is less information, and the fact that Australian exports have had to be reduced suggests that Britain sees little likelihood of any shortage of that commodity. Negotiations are proceeding for the renewal of the British contracts and further information should be available soon. Although the stores may at the moment be full, even- that quantity does not satisfy the huge British market for long. An intensification of the submarine campaign with the sinking of a number of food ships might alter the situation overnight. Britain must allow for a high rate of loss through hostile action, and it is a matter for thankfulness and a tribute to the efficiency of the Royal Navy that after almost a year of war Britain can still be so well supplied. It is to be hoped that the Minister of Marketing will keep the New Zealand primary industries constantly informed so that their ability to supply the British demand shall not be impaired or disappointed. With regard to meat, the killing of certain classes of stock might be delayed if the situation demands it.