TO-DAY'S PRICES.

Taranaki Daily News, 27 November 1920, Page 6

TO-DAY'S PRICES.

SUGAR SHORTAGE RELIEVEQ. ANOTHER RISE IN BENZINE. There lias been practically 110 alteration in prices during the past week. Many of the price reductions which have taken place both in England , and America in manufactured goods have not operated yet in the New Zealand market. Prices in relation to the prewar standard cannot be expected to fall heavily, because production costs will not permit it. Sugar.—A good shipment came to hand from Auckland this week, and should rcliefe the shortage that has existed for several weeks. We are given lo understand that there will be no further supplies this month. Eastern sugar is finding its way on to the New Zealand market, but the present price would make it prohibitive to consumers. A large shipment recently arrived in the South and is for manufacturning purposes. Cube sugar is still in very short supply, only small quantities arriving from Australia from time to time. Benzine.—This article has again advanced 2s per case, which now makes the price to the consumer in the region of 38s a case. Motoring these days is becoming a fairly costly pastime. Fresh Fruit. —This is becoming very dear now when quality is taken into consideration. Small consignments of apples came to hand this week, but the quality in not of the best. American apples and oranges should be making their appearance on the local market any tim& now. American Onions.—Supplies have arrived and the quality is exceptionally good. Although the price is high compared with the Australian grown product on the market Tccently, the housewife is more than compensated, as practically every onion purchased is sound. New Potatoes. —These are coming to hand, but not in large enough quantities to restrict the sale of old potatoes. The latter are of exceptional quality for this time of the year. Dates.—New season's dates should arrive in time for Christmas, and there is bound to be a big demand for this wholesome food. Since the war shipping facilities from Asia Minor have not been of the best, but now that matters are becoming more stable in that part of the world delivery should be expedited Salmon.—Fresh supplies are now being landed at advanced prices, due to adverse exchange rates and also to high freight charges Lead and Linseed Oil.—Linseed oil has eased again by about fid a gallon, and white lead by 30s per ton, but it will be some time yet before this drop will be noticeable 011 the local market Lard lias advanced Id per lb. Owing to the shortage of pigs bacon is also in very short supply, but hams should be available for the Christmas trade, as bacon curers make provision for the demand several months beforehand.