PLENTY OF SUGAR

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20111, 4 December 1939, Page 8

PLENTY OF SUGAR

NO RESTRICTION NOW CREAM OF TARTAR SHORT SCARCITY OF ONIONS EARLY CROP ON MARKET There is still a shortage in Gisborne ot some forms of merchandise, ibut there is now an abundant supply of sugar, a position which is in direct contrast with that reported a short time ago. Shortly after the outbreak of war. there was a particularly keen demand for sugar, and the supplies in Gisborne were apparently insufficient to meet all requirements, some grocers, as a result, adopting the system of rationing their sugar among customers, in a mtmlbor of instances at only a few pounds at a time. At one period the quantity allowed at some shops came down to 41b. It was reported to-day, however, that grocers had received sufficient supplies now and that customers were able to purchase in almost any quantity.

Rationing: of Supplies

During the past few weeks, concern has 'been felt in some quarters regarding the ability to secure ample baking powder and one of its constituents, cream of tartar. Gisborne businessmen state that they are unable to secure their usual quantities, and some grocers have 'been unable to meet all demands, resulting in rationing of supplies at reduced quantities among their customers. 'Onions still continue to be extremely scarce, and the small quantities available are dearer than apples. In fact, none of the mature onions are available in town, and the only ones on the market at present are green : onions from the early crops in the district. These serve the purpose quite well. They are selling in shops at Gel per bunch, about three-quarters of a pound being in a bunch. Potatoes are coming forward ’• in increasing supplies from local sources, although they are still comparatively dear, the retail price being 3d per lb. for the 'best. With greater areas being dug, it is expected that supplies will be large enough shortly to bring.;the price down to below the present level. Eggs are still selling in Gisborne at Is 8d per dozen retail, producers being paid Is sd. Steady supplies are meeting the demand.