THE COST OF LIVING

New Zealand Times, Volume XLII, Issue 9788, 11 October 1917, Page 8

THE COST OF LIVING

To the Editor "N.Z. Times.” Sir, —On the formation of the National Government Sir Joseph Ward, evidently much to his distaste, mentioned the law of supply and demand as the cause of high nrdcies—hut it does not operate freely in Now Zealand. The ’biggest trust or combine is not the ibmetrican moat trust; it is the combination of the Now Zealand Government with, the squatters and dairy farmers. If the law of supply and demand were in operation these squatters and farmers would be glad to accept half what they ana receiving, because they could not get their produce shipped without shipping being provided. The National Government has seen to this, and is seeing to it now. There would be no objection if the National Governmentalleged to represent tho people of New Zealand —received some consideration for this service. They are entitled to have for home consumption portion of these products at cost of production plus a reasonable profit. The producer's should receive full London prices, voluntarily giving such discount os they think fit. •At present neither the producers nor the people are satisfied. As regards the meat trusts the Government should control the sale of live stock. Oh, for a Soddou ! p-X am, etc., FAX.