MILLERS' TRUST.

Gisborne Times, Volume VIII, Issue 68, 4 December 1902, Page 3

MILLERS' TRUST.

By Tolograph—Press Association, Christchurch, last night. A deputation representating tho Trades and Labor Council, Progressive Liberal Association, and Working Mcn’H Co operative Association waited on Sir Joseph Ward to-day and brought under his notice tho dolotorious operation of tho Flour Mißors’ Association, and alleged that the presorit price of flour in this city, Xl2 per ton, was out of proportion to tho cost of wheat, especially us tho cost of milling whoat lias not increased. Befcronco was also mado to the trust restricting tho output, and declining to supply bakers who did not conform to tho conditions imposed by tho Master Bakers’ Association. It was a! :o stated that tho trust was selling flour in Auckland, froight paid, ut 10s to 10s per ton cheaper than hero. It was suggested that tho Stato should establish mills.

Sir Joseph Ward, in reply, said it was a difficult matter to deal with trusts by leg islut,ion. Ho did not favor tho establishment of Stato flour mills, as tho Stato would probably have to pay moro for whout than private individuals. This had boon tlio caHo in connection with the purchase of land by tho State, the value boing put up against tiio Government by ovoryone olso. lie considered tho solution of tho difficulty wouid bo in tho direction of Stato assistance to co operativo flour mills, and promised to bring the matter boforo Cabinot.