THE CHEESE MARKET.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 98, 28 April 1915, Page 4

THE CHEESE MARKET.

Writing on the cheese market six weeks ago, the London Commercial Record says: The present prices ruling for cheese are probably unequalled in the history of the trade. At least it can be taken for granted there were never before such prices ruling for Colonial cheese. In a large measure siicb rates as those that now obtain are due to the war, also the fact that the Government continues to be a big purchaser of cheese for the troops constitutes one of the most important features in the present remarkable situation. Since the war commenced the Government bought cheese freely from time to time, most descriptions having received attention. Seldom before lias the stock of English cheese in this country been so small, all the lower priced goods were cleared up long ago. There is no prospect of actual supplies being increased at the moment, as milk is very dear, while there is a shortage of labor in the country districts for cheese making. Sq serious has the agricultural operation become that the matter has recently been discussed in Parliament. By the operation of war, and labor consequently short, the desire for juvenile labor was urged, and this point was received with friendly sympathy by Mr Asquith, who recognised that the exceptional situation had to be met with by exceptional measures. Of course, Pecksniff, and Podsnap, deplored this point of view, but they could not help it, as they always run contrary to general opinion. These were the same gentry who wanted Britain to cut do,vn its navy, and yet snivelled when th-nr friends the Germans shelled unforti fied towns such as Scarborough and Hartlepool. The Government, however, have to look after the interests of* the nation, and not those who act on behalf of the: firm of Pecksniff and Co., consequently, notwithstanding the disadvantages that agriculture at present labours under, the outlook is more hopeful. Cheese prices are unlikely to be reduced at the moment; but the approach of spring should help to relieve the situation. Canadian cheese is being fast used up. and the new season for Canadian will open earlier than usual, with prices higher than previously known. New Zealand is very scarce and dear on Government buying, and Dutch •.hw-e is reaching prices higher than ever before known.