THE PRICE OF BREAD.

Taranaki Daily News, 11 March 1920, Page 5

THE PRICE OF BREAD.

INTERVIEW WITH PREMIER. BAKERS NOT SATISFIED. —VBy Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, March 10.

A deputation of the Master Bakers' Union met the Prime Minister to-day in reference to the new prices of bread. They contended that a half-penny increase on the 21b. loaf, even if flour were only increased by 30a" a ton, did not leave sufficient margin for the other increases which had to be met, whereas one penny on the previous ,price, with a £3 a ton increase 'in flour, would have allowed a larger margin.

The deputation also contended that the trade had done sufficient in fixing the over-the-counter price and that a larger margin should be allowed for delivery. The North Island bakers wished to have a farthing extra for delivery, as was now allowed in the South, , Mr. Massey safd this was similar to'' the point in reference to the difference between counter sales at bakers' shops and at stores. They could be considered with the Board of Trade. He proposed that bakers should accept the prices suggested and fill in forms, to bo i prepared, allowing thpir actual sales for I ii month. When these forms wore received he would be open to reconsider the position if a loss were shown. The bakers asked Mr. Massey that they should be recompensed for any loss shown, but this he would not agree to. The bakers said they were not satisfied with this and retired to consider the position. A little later thev intimated that they did not wish to see the Prime Minister again.