THE WHEAT QUESTION.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 219, 15 January 1917, Page 6

THE WHEAT QUESTION.

(Special Correspondent). WELLINGTON, Jan. 12. The Acting Minister of Industries and Commerce had hoped that by this time he would be able to make a definite announcement in regard to the -wheat question, but the conference between the Board of Trade and the Board of Agriculture revealed some wide differences of opinion and it now seems unlikely a settlement will be reached this week. The Board of Agriculture takes much the same view of the question as did the farmers who met the Minister in Christchurch some weeks ago, while the Board of Trade holds that the Government should stand between the public and excessive pmces. The final decision, of course rests with the Cabinet, but it. is gathered from what has transpired that Mr MacDonald favours the view taken by the Board of Trade, and that a majority of his colleagues will support him in giving effect to its recommendations. The Minister is emphasising the need for an early settlement in the interests of the farmers, and he is determined there shall be no avoidable delay.