47

H.—29

A representative, commercial mission from France, headed by General Pau, visited New Zealand during January last and made extensive investigations in regard to fostering trade with that country. Special facilities were placed at the disposal of the mission to study the requirements of this market as regards imported material, and also to obtain a full knowledge of the, extent and the quality of our exportable products. It is anticipated that a cemsiderable share of the trade previously handled by Germany will in the future pass into French channels. The; French Ministry of Revictualling has followed up this inquiry, anel practical assistance has been rendered along the lines of their requirements. A full and comprehensive report on New Zealand trade was prepared by this Department for the mission, and printed as a separate document. in conclusion, thanks are due: to the departmental officers who have assisted in carrying out the industries and commerce work, which is altogether extraneous to the; legitimate' functions of a, Department of Agriculture, and for which no additional staff existed, though it demanded time anel attention.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (2,000 copies), £77 10s.

Authority : Marcus F. Marks, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9l9.

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