MILLING WHEAT

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 251, 14 June 1932, Page 6

MILLING WHEAT

GOVERNMENT MAY CONCEDE RIGHT TO IMPORT GRAIN. GAInTERBURY CROPS DAMAGED. Owing to the failure of wheat crops in South Canterbury, the Government may. agree to a suggestioii that a limited quantity of milling wheat should be imported and distributed at prices that will not involve an increase in the prices of flour and bread, according to a statement by the Prime Minister (the Right Hon. G. W. Forbes). "As a result of damage by heavy rains in the South Canterbury district in February last it has become evident that there will this year be insufficient wheat of good quality available for Dominion requirements," Mr. Forbes said. "This .fact is having an effect upon prices of fowl wheat, which at present is being sold at prices slightly above the prices which millers can offer for supplies for gristing. "Representations have been made to the Government, and the Wheat Marketing Board, representing millers and wheat growers, has asked to be allowed to import and to distribute a limited quantity of milling wheat at prices which will not involve an increase in the prices of flour and bread. "The wheat would in large measure be used for mixing with New Zealand grain and would thus enable a greater proportion of New Zealand wheat to be used for the production of good quality fiour. The importation as suggested should at the same time assist poultry farmers to secure their requirements at prices lower than are at present ruling. "The request has received the favourable eonsideration of the Government, and provided that the matter can be arranged on such a basis as to deal fairly with the interests of all parties, the suggestion may be acceded to."