THE RISE IN BUTCHERS' MEAT.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume L, Issue 60, 4 October 1907, Page 4

THE RISE IN BUTCHERS' MEAT.

To the Editor. Sir,—We are getting quite accustomed to prices of everything in the food line we want most going up, so that the latest move of the local butchers and bakers does not come as the surpris.' it might have done in different circumstances. It might be, as the butchers contend, that they have to obtain bigger prices for their meat on account of the high prices obtaining for stock, and that they are entitled to make ends meet, just as those in other industries are entitled to a living; but there is one fact, sir, that must not be overlooked in regard to the butchers' increase of prices—that is, the quality of the meat that is being retailed and sold at the enhanced prices. Some of the meat at present supplied is of the toughest and poorest description, and indicates that the butchers—or, rather, some of them —buv and slaughter the cheap linesold, played-out cows and working bullocks and poor sheep—as against paying the high prices ruling for prime. Now, sir, this is not giving the public value for their money. If the retail price h increased on account of the rise in prices for prime sheep and cattle, the public should be supplied with the prime stuff they have to pay for. The only way of remedying the matter I see is to'do as you' suggested in a leading article a few days ago—namely, make it compulsorv to "grade all meat at the abattoirs, just as butter and flax is graded. People would then know what thev were paving for—first, second, or third uualitv. Will the butchers agree to grade and sell their meat of their own accord without Government interam. etc., MEAT-EATER.