SHORTAGE OF COAL STOCKS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25021, 15 September 1942, Page 4

SHORTAGE OF COAL STOCKS

POSITION CAUSING CONCERN (P.A.) AUCKLAND, Sept. 14. The continuance of the stoppage-of coal production in the Waikato mines is being viewed with concern by the managements of large industrial establishments dependent on those sources of supplies. The effect on the dairyino' industry in regard to the disposal anci preservation of produce was discussed to-day by representatives of the industry. Mr A. G. Brown, managing director of' the Auckland Farmers’ Freezing Company, Ltd., said his company had stocks of coal sufficient only for two weeks’ operations at the King's Wharf Cool Stores and the freezing works at Southdown and Horotiu. «Now that the new season’s butter is being received in progressively large quantities as production advances, it is imperative that supplies of coal be maintained for its preservation in cool stores,” he continued. “ Unless coal becomes available in sufficient quantities, a serious position will arise. The value of the dairv produce at the three works varies from £2,000,000 to £5.000,000. according to the time of the year and the shipping position.” To enable reserves of coal to be built up and drawn upon in the busy killing season, when the normal supplies would be inadequate, the company had built concrete pits at the Horotiu and Southdown works capable of storing 10,000 tons, Mr Brown said. This method was necessary to arrest the deterioration of Waikato coal, which was rapid when kept exposed to the atmosphere. Owing to the shortage of coal supplies over the past two years, the company had been unable to accumulate stocks, and even at the height of the season had nevermore than a few weeks’ requirements. In spite of the utmost endeavours, it had been found impossible to build up reserves.

An official of the Westfield Freezing Company. Ltd., said his works were now drawing on reserves, which at the most were only sufficient for three weeks. Other establishments are stated to be in a somewhat similar position.