SUGAR AND FLOUR SHORTAGE.

Hokitika Guardian, 3 February 1920, Page 4

SUGAR AND FLOUR SHORTAGE.

The Colonial Sugar Company has, says the Chrischurch “Press” notified Mr W. Bottrell, chairman of the local Advisory Committee of the Board of Trade, that it has been unable to allot any sugar for. Canterbury by the Mokoia which is now on the way south from Auckland, and that no further supplies may be looked for until the Moiiowai takes a cargo south next week, the vessel being due at Lyttelton about next Saturday week. In these circumstances Mr Bottrell strongly urges storekeepers and householders to husband their supplies. Mr A. D. Ford, Mayor of Riccarton. who has just returned from a trip to Australia,stated to a “Press” representative that the sugar shortage on the other side was even more acuto than it was in New Zealand. The shortage was particularly apparent in Sydney, where in many hotels all that could be supplied was brown sugar. Speaking of merchandise generally, Mr Ford said that stocks were being held very light, and some merchants were not inclined to quote at all for export. shortage OF FLOUR.

On Thursay, Mr G. Witty, M.P.. telegraphed to the Prime Minister: “ Many storekeepers an private indi. victuals unable to obtain even a sack of flour, millers state on account of large quantity ordered. One person has 500 tons ordered. Not delivered yet. Matter serious. Would suggest orders over ten tens he cancelled, so as to give others a chance.” The Prime Minister has replied: “ Your telegram received regarding flour scarcity. Am bringing matter under immediate attention of Board of Trade.”