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Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21198, 22 August 1940, Page 10

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MEAT REQUIREMENTS NEXT SEASON S EXPORTS BRITAIN SEEKS MORE BACON (By Telegraph.—Special to Times) WELLINGTON, Wednesday “So far the United Kingdom Government has not specified its requirements of New Zealand meat for next season,” said the Minister of Marketing, the Hon. W. Nash, in reply to an urgent question asked by Mr W. S. Goosman (Opposition—Waikato) in conjunction with Mr W. J. Broadfoot (Opposition—Waitomo) in the House of Representatives today. The questions were asked “in view of the contradictory statements circulating regarding the meat position.*’ Mr Nash said the contract between the New Zealand and British Governments covering the sale of frozen meat from the production of the current season would terminate on September 30. In regard to next season the Government had opened negotiations with the British Government, but the latter had not specified its requirements. He hoped to be in a position to make a statement to the House at an early date. Extra Bacon Replying to other points raised, Mr Nash said the published figure of 10,000 tons of bacon was an estimate compiled within New Zealand which it was hoped would be attained, following an indication received from the British Government that it would like to receive increased supplies of bacon from New Zealand. Mr Nash was also asked at what point funds would be made available to the producers if an increased production campaign were being launched as a result of a New Zealand decision. The Minister said payment to producers would continue to be made in accordance with the procedure agreed upon at the commencement of the current season.

“Unless there is good reason to the contrary the New Zealand Government will continue to purchase the meat at f.o.b. (ship’s side),” replied Mr Nash. “I have already stated that the New Zealand Government desires the maximum production of foodstuffs and that it will buy the exportable surplus for next season at prices to be agreed on.”