PROFHERING CHARGES.

Hokitika Guardian, 4 August 1920, Page 1

PROFHERING CHARGES.

SUMMARY OF PROSECUTIONS. (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, Aug 3. A summary of the prosecutions oil charges of profiteering under section 32 a, the Board of Trade Act is given by Air W. G. McDonald (Chairman of the Board of Trade). The section named provides that every person commits an offence who either as principal or agent sells or supplies, or oilers for sale or supply, any. goods at a price which is unreasonably high. Mr McDonald says : : “By much reiteration of the words “vaseline,” “alarm clocks,” and “rabbit traps,” various critics have suggested or insinuated that the Board looks for its cases outside the bread and butter lines; and prefers to prosecute comparatively small dealers. The facts prove that this kind of criticism is far from fair.”

Mr McDonald emphasises the fact that the prices of a number of essonlial articles, distinctly bread and butter linos, are controlled. The prices are not fixed by the vendors, but by the State. The Board lias also interested itself in fixing the prices of milk in various districts. It is closely watching the retail prices and is ready to take effective action if the prices are not continued on the basis of the rates of the Imperial purchase. A thorough investigation has been made by the Board into the prices of wool. As far an the prosecutions to date are concerned, the Board can show that it lias done its duty fairly and without fear or favour. Regarding the infants’ food ease and the alarm clocks case appeals are pending, and further comment on the cases must be suspended. In connection with several other cases of alleged profiteering fines have been imposed, and the prosecutions now pending include charges against dealers in footwear, woollen goods, sugar, milk, benzine, cigarettes and other articles. “Sufficient lias been done and sufficient is being done,” lie said, “to prove to the public that the Board of Trade does not regard the Board of Trade Act as a dead letter.”