PRICE OF FLOUR

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 February 1939, Page 6

PRICE OF FLOUR

INCREASE OF 13s A TON. EFFECT ON LOCAL EAKERS. Masterton bakers were notified today that as from February 17 the price of flour has been increased by 13s a ton Previously flour was £l4 10s a ton at the nearest wharf or railheart and the increase brings the price to £l5 3s a ton. According to the advice, however., linkers are to receive .a rebate of 5s “payable periodically." A Masterton baker /expressed the opinion today that the increase should , have been opposed by the Master Bakers’ Association. “The increased price will make things very difficult for us," he said. “We are getting fid a loaf for bread here in the country as compared with 5Jd in the cities. Wo, however, have freights to pay and our delivery costs are considerably higher. We will come out definitely on the wrong side. “Before the price restrictions wore imposed on us some years ago." he added “we were receiving fid a loaf. Flour was then put up £1 a ton and then another 5s a Inn. Hours of work were reduced from 4fi a week to <ljl and wages were increased £l. And on top of all .Ural they arc having another mack at us. It is ridiculous—nothing hut increased costs and no increased returns. Goodness only knows, what the bonus, payable periodically means. I don’t, know. “ft appears that ours is the only trade the Government can pick, on Fhictuating prices render butchers immune from interference.’’.