FISH AND OYSTERS.

Evening Star, Issue 14932, 19 July 1912, Page 2

FISH AND OYSTERS.

"It is to bo regretted that the muiticipalities have not so far established fish markets, but 1 "understand that the Wellington City Council are moving in the matter," says the Secretary to the Marine Department in his annual report. "I am convinced that the establishment of such markets would have a beneficial effect on the fishing industry, and would enable tho public to get better and cheaper supplies of fish." The. department's rock oj'ster beds in the north, between May 1 and July 31 last year, yielded 4,7B2'sacks, a ltady sale being found at 12s 6d a sack, .'.nd a profit of £565 was made. "Owing to the heavy demand a higher price could lazily have been obtained, but it is the desiro of tho department to sell them at o-uch a price as will place them within the roach of all, and edl them direct to tho consumers as far as this can be> done. i Last season it was found that, owing to ; the limited supply, some dealers who could . not obtain all they wanted were arrang- ; ing with individuals to purchase at the , department's depot ostensibly for themj selves, but really for dealers to whom thoy I resold at a higher price. If it is found j that this practice continues, the depart- ; jiicnt will arrange to deliver them itself \ at the house for which purchasers say ; they are bought, and if this does not stop ; the practice other stepa will be. taken."