CONTROL OF PRICES OF FAT STOCK

Dominion, Volume 36, Issue 100, 22 January 1943, Page 4

CONTROL OF PRICES OF FAT STOCK

Christchurch Agreement WITHIN STABILIZATION RANGE OF VALUES (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) CHRISTCHURCH, January 21. As the result ot discussions on the stabilization of meat prices, agreement has been reached in Christchurch on a scheme to control the prices ot fat stock within the stabilization range of values. An ollicial statement supplied today states: "During the last few days, representatives of the Minister of Supply have been visiting Christchurch, inquiring into tlie subject. They met representatives of the Farmers’ Union, tlie Sheepowners' Union, the Master Butchers’ Association, the By-Products Company, the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association, tlie Canterbury Saleyards Company, and the North Canterbury Stock and Station Agents. They also visited Addington saleyards, and followed the various auctions closely, interviewing a number of those vitally interested in the raising of fat stock and those disposing of fat stock to the publie, botlt butchers an'd auctioneers.

“Subsequently, tliey again met representatives of the various interests, and a scheme was agreed on to control the prices of fat stock within the stabilization range of values. A committee will be set up representing growers and fatteners, master butchers and stock and station agents, who will watch the market, and when prices rise unduly above the basic price set down, steps will be taken to steady the market by importations of meat from outsi'de districts. “It is hoped that, other centres in the Dominion will follow this course, and that fluctuation of prices will be steadied. Because of the large quantity of meat required for the forces, and. the dwindling supply of fat cattle, prices in Canterbury have been abnormally high during the latter part of the winter an'd tlie spring months. ‘■Tlie Government is introducing a grading scheme which will come into operation very shortly, when all joints sold through butchers’ shops will 'be •ticketed and sold according to grade.”