Produce Commissioner.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 40, 16 February 1901, Page 3

Produce Commissioner.

AN OFFICIAL REPORT,

[by TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION’.] Wellington, last night,

In his monthly report to the Department of Agriculture, dated lltli January, Mr Cameron, Produce Commissioner in England, states that prices had ruled firmly for the choicest butters for the previous six weeks at 100 s to 102 s. During the previous few days an even better feoling had been displayed by agents, and a shilling advanoe had been made on these quotations, which were ten shillings per cwt. higher than at this time last year. From careful enquiry he found that the bulk of the New Zealand factory butters had so far this season been rated as “ choicest,” and consequently had realised above the quotation, He had only had two complaints made to him regarding the quality of the butter. Both were of slight “ fishiness.” The cheese market, he says, has not been at all bright. Prices are too high for brisk business. Purchases have been made in the colony this season at such high prices that holders are uSable to sell at a profit, and they'are unprepared to meet buyers, who would purchase if prices were reduced to 525. Such prices as 54s to 55s per cwt. are being held for, and little business is doing. Mr Cameron states that he believes the holders will have to meet the buyers. Frozen moat, according to the com.missioner, has made some improvement. Quotations show, if anything, that the slight doubt felt as to the future a short time ago has been got over, and values have recovered their former level.' Stocks of mutton aro of course very short, and in few hands. Lamb, considering the time of the year, has been selling well, being kept up by the high rates for mutton. Beef, while not higher, has recovered its firmness. Canterbury mutton has ruled from 4jjd to 5d per pound ; other brands about |d per lb less. Lamb realises about 6d; beef, hinds 4d, fores 3jd.