Return of Cheese and Butter (the Produce of the under-mentioned Dairy-factories shipped to London by the New Zealand Middle Island Dairy Association from December, 1890, to May, 1891 (six months)

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Mr. Stevenson moved, and Mr. Pryde seconded, the adoption of the report and balance-sheet. Carried.

Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Cuddie, the retiring members, were reelected. Mr. W. Heenan, Maungatua, was elected a member of committee; and it was resolved that the committee appoint another member if required. Mr. T. Brydone was re-elected president.

The question of the heavy railage charges on dairy-produce was discussed, and it was resolved to bring the matter before the members of Parliament, as during the past year the efforts of the association with the Railway Commissioners had proved unavailing. What was wanted was that cheese for shipment in four-ton lots and over should be carried at grain rates.

It was resolved that the secretary be requested to ask the Minister of Lands to place facilities in the hands of the dairy-factories to have their milk analysed free of cost by the Government analyst when required.

The members present expressed their satisfaction at the work carried out already by the association, and letters were received from several factories wishing to join during the coming season.

It was shown that the expenses on shipments of cheese sent through the association, including everything, from the factory-door until sold in London, amounted to 1 1/5 d. per pound. This includes cartage, railage, harbour dues, freight, dock charges, exchange, stamps, discount to buyer, commission, &c.

The amount drawn as advance against the shipment was 3¼d. per pound, and the exchange as mentioned covers the whole. Taking off shrinkage or net weight in London, it leaves 4 11/16d. net at factory-door.

A vote of thanks was passed to the secretary and committee.

A vote of thanks to the chair terminated the proceedings.