COST OF LIVING.

Taranaki Daily News, 8 October 1915, Page 8

COST OF LIVING.

BILL BEFORE PARLIAMENT. BOARD OF TRADE TO BE ESTABLISHED. EXTENDED iPOWERS FOR BOROUGH COUNCILS. », (From Our Own Correspondent.) Wellington, Oct. 6. The Cost of Living Bill (Right Hon. Sir Joseph Ward), was introduced by Governor's Message in the House of Representatives to-day. The measure provides for the establishment of a Board of Trade, empowered to investigate and report upon prices, trade and commerce, and gives increased powers to borough councils in connection with foodstuffs. The Board of Trade ia to consist of the Minister for Industries and Commerce, and two other persons to be appointed by the Governor-in-Couneil for a period of three years. Each of the appointed members is to be paid a salary,.and is to devote the whole of his time to the work of the Board. The Public Service Commissioner may appoint a secretary and other officers in connection with the Board.

The Board is empowered to investigate and report to the Governor in connection with any of the following matters: —(1) Any alleged infringement of the Commercial Trusts Act; (2) Matters- affecting the cost of living or any other question referred to it by the Governor relating to the supply, demand, or price of commodities; (3) Any complaint that the price of any class of goods is unreasonably high; (4) Any question relating to the trade, commerce or business of New Zealand that may be referred to by the Governor; (0) Legislation that may be necessary in connection with the above matters; (7) General measures for encouraging, developing and protecting the trade, industries and commerce of New Zealand. The Board will have the powers of a Royal Commission of Inquiry, and may examine witnesses or call for documents. The Bill provides that the Commercial Trusts Act is to be widened in its scope, so as to embrace all articles of food for human consumption. MUNICIPAL ENTERPRISES. The Bill further provides that the Govemor-in-Council may make regulations authorising and controlling the conduct of the following enterprises by borough councils:—(l) The establishment of milk stations for testing, treating and distributing the milk supply of the borough, and the carrying on by the council of the business of a dealer in milk, milk products and ice; (2) The establishment, equipment and maintenance of refrigerating chambers and chambers for the cool storage of articles of food intended for human consumption; (3) The establishment, equipment and maintenance of bakeries and the carrying on by the council of the business of a baker; (4) fPhe establishment, equipment and maintenance of brickmaking works, and the carrying on by the coun«U of ,the business of a brick-maker. 'The regulations may apply generally to all borough councils or to anv particular council.