CITRUS AND PUBLIC HEALTH

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIII, Issue 170, 21 July 1942, Page 4

CITRUS AND PUBLIC HEALTH

rthe prices ruling in New Zealand to-day for citrus fruit represent the beat the Government can achieve, the marketing system set up lor the control of this class of fruit must be judged a dismal failure. In mid-winter, when both lemons and oranges should be within the reach of every family, large numbers of people find it impossible to buy. They are therefore deprived of an essential food, with consequences to their health which may be far-reaching. The Government prides Itself on its national health scheme, as if it were a great virtue to provide an elaborate system, at great cost, for curing people of 111-health while it neglects, or makes only an inadequate attempt, to tackle the problem at the source. Where public health 1s concerned it Is not only wise policy to build up the race by enabling everyone to secure at least a minimum supply of those things which Nature provides to fortify the human system, but it is also the most economical. In Auckland to-day colds and other seasonal illnesses are taking the heaviest toll of the year, and there are few fruits the average sufferer more longs for at this time than an orange, or, among drinks, that made from a good lemon. Those who have trees in the back gardens are fortunate, but the majority, who must either pay from 3d to 8d for an orange or the New Zealand grapefruit, and only slightly less for a lemon, have little choice in the matter. Why these extortionate prices? The return to the grower and the retail market are controlled oy the Government; therefore the Government, and no one else, is responsible. If private enterprise conducted marketing on this basis, under the shelter of a monopoly, it would be immediately, and justifiably, charged with profiteering. Is a sin less reprehensible when committed by a Government Department? Public indignation has been roused over this question of citrus prices, and the situation existing is having a considerable influence on the general assessment of Government efficiency in business. The grading standards set are too restrictive and should be relaxed for the period of the war. People should be permitted to buy from nearby orchards and any and every action which will help to reduce marketing costs should be taken without delay.