FOOD-STUFF AUCTIONS.

Press, Volume L, Issue 14889, 31 January 1914, Page 8

FOOD-STUFF AUCTIONS.

CONSERVING PUBLIC HEALTH. (FBOM _ COKRESrOXDEXT.) , WELLINGTON, January 30. A few years ago an agitation was commenced urging that a by-law be made controlling tne conduct of people attending auction sales of goods tor human consumption. It has been the practice of biuders for the succulent peacn. pear, and enticing strawberry to gather in large numbers at the marKet, and when running up bids by halfpennies indulge in a smoke, Europeans and Chinese alike, which, of course, is accompanied by copious expectoration. Tne civic authorities, when awakened from lethargy, framed and passed a by-law dealing with this offensive practice, and then after a further lapse of time became galvanised into action and'placed placards in the markets warning the public against committing the offpnee. These notices have been on view for many months, but -not till the other day did the authorities see to it that they were being observed, with the result that two men appeared at Court to-day charged with smoking in a public market where food for human consumption was exposed. Those being the first cases, tho defendants were ordered to pay costs only. Another matter which should have the attention of the authorities is that of Chinese and the market, which is thick with them every morning. They should, be prevented' from sitting on cases of fruit whilst waiting for the auctioneer's arrival and during the course of the salo.