SUGAR PRICES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLII, Issue 2148, 6 July 1920, Page 3

SUGAR PRICES.

RETAIL SIXPENCE PER POUND,

NEW DISTRIBUTION METHODS

Some particulars of the increased prices of sugar approved by the Board of Trade in its negotiations with the Colonial Sugar Refining Company-,were given by the Minister of Industries and Commerce, tho Hon. E. P. Lee, to a reporter.

“It has been decided,” said the Minister, “that as a basis (he price of sugar shall be fixed at £47 a ton f.o.fi., Auckland, and £47 10s a- ton delivered in Auckland City, the extra 10s covering harbour charges and delivery' codts. These prices will be subject to half per cent, discount, for prompt cash, and will enable the retailer to sell at (id per lb., except in places incurring heavy transit charges. “In order to secure an equitable distribution of sugar among all classes of consumers, it has been necessary to modify' somewhat the company’s trading conditions. The main alterations are:

1. All wholesale grocers ancl provision merchants not directly or indirectly pursuing a retail business are entitled to be placed on the company’s agency list. 2. till firms or persons other than manufacturers who are allot tel supplies amounting to or exceeding four tons per calendar month, must deal direct with the company at Auckland.

3. All retailers whose allotments are less than four tons per calendar month must obtain their supplies through a nominated agent. Nominations once made are to lie irrevocable for a year unless by consent: of the Board of Trade. 4. All manufacturers whose allotments amount to or exceed two tons per calendar month must deal direct with the company. Other manufacturers must obtain their supplies through a nominated agent.

The Minister said that he proposed -going into the whole matter of the increased prices of sugar with the members of the Board of Trade on their return from Auckland at the beginning'of next week.