PRICE OF BREAD.

Hokitika Guardian, 11 March 1920, Page 4

PRICE OF BREAD.

PRIME MINISTER’S REPLY.

fPF.U PRESS ASSOCIATION.—COPYRIGHT.]

WELLINGTON, March 10

A deputation from the United Master Bakers’ Union met the Prime Minister to-day with reference to the new prices of bread. They contended that a half-penny increase on the two-pound loaf, even if flour were only increased by 30s. a ton, did not leave a sufficient margin for other increases, which und. t o Be met, whereas, one penny on the previous price with £3 a ton increase it. flour would) have allowed a largar margin. The deputation also contended that the Board of Trade had done sufficient in fixing “over the counter” price and that a larger margin should be allowed for delivery. North Island bakers wished to have a farthing extra for delivery as was now allowed in the South,

The Prime Minister said that this and similar joint references to the dnference between counter sales at bakers’ shops and at stores could be considered with, the Board of Trade. He proposed that bakers should' accept the prices suggested and fill in forms to be pepared showing their-' actual sales ror a month. When these forms were received he would be open to reconsider the position if a loss were shown. The bakers asked Mr Massey that they should be recompensed for any 10.-s shown, but this he would not. agree to. The bakers said they were not satisfied with this and they retired lo consider the position and a little lator intimated that they did not wish fj see the Prime Minister again.