H—44

Domestic Machinery and Equipment The ready, availability from sterling sources of component parts and raw materials required in the manufacture of vacuum cleaners, dish-washing machines, clothes-washing machines, and domestic refrigerators has permitted these industries to become more firmly established. The output of dish-washing machines and vacuum cleaners continues to meet local needs, while an increasing production of washing-machines, including ■some new types, is coming closer to meeting the demand. Lawn-mowers The production of hand roller-type lawn-mowers has progressed considerably during -the past year, and it is not anticipated that any further large-scale importation will be; necessary. The position in regard to locally-produced motor mowers, both electric and petrol engine driven, is favourable also as output meets demand except for large mowers •(with blades exceeding 18 in. in length). Radio Apparatus : Making and Assembly This industry has made good progress towards the readjustment and consolidation necessary for efficient operation under the relatively normal conditions now prevailing. Wholesale stocks have increased and, whilst considerable effort has been made to stimulate sales, there have been no important technical changes in design, and the market for ordinary replacement sets shows a downward tendency which may continue over the next few years. Nevertheless, advancements in the design of portable and car radios and the increasing popularity of radio gramophones has provided added marketing •opportunities. Attention has also been given to the production of mobile radio equipment which is now recognized as necessary for the efficient operation of essential services, including ambulances, patrol-cars, and taxis. An increased outlet for surplus capacity has been found by diversifying production to a marked degree, and the extent of this is shown by the following table :

Fluorescent-lighting components and fixtures, electrical appliances such as jugs, -toasters, kettles, radiators, rangettes, and extruded plastic hose are some of the products now being made on an increasing scale. Electrical Engineering and Allied Production As is to be expected, this important industry continues to expand concurrent with the development of hydro-electric resources. Its growth may be gauged from the following table :

48

— 1946-47. 1947-48. £ £ Radio production 874,117 895,481 Other products 335,226 522,568 Repairs 118,334 67,421 1,327,677 1,485,470

— 1946-47. 1947-48. 1948-49. of establishments Total number of persons engaged .. 110 1,707 £ 120 1,865 £ 134 2,040 £ Value of output Added value —i.e., value of output le ss cost of materials 1,904,182 991,576 2,237,110 1,060,233 3,203,260 1,379,198