BLACK MARKET

Wairarapa Times-Age, 22 June 1942, Page 4

BLACK MARKET

ALLEGATIONS IN SYDNEY OFFERS OF NEW CLOTHING COUPON-FREE. A 0? EXORBITANT PRICES. (Bv Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright) SYDNEY, June 21. The Commonwealth Prices Commission is investigating reports that some retailers are taking advantage of rationing to profiteer in new clothing by offering goods coupon-free at exorbitant prices. The Assistant Prices Commissioner, Mr McCarthy, stated that if the allegations were proved, the retailers concerned would be prosecuted and the commission would press for the maximum penalty. The Rationing Commission has announced that Army and Volunteer Defence Corps officers will receive 70 clothing ration coupons yearly and other ranks 25 coupons. Officers commissioned after June 15 will receive a special issue of 90 coupons to cover the cost of their initial requirements. All ranks other than officers are supplied with full clothing issue by the Army. Officers are expected to buy additional articles to complete their uniform, for which reason they receive 45 coupons more than other ranks. Shirts, collars, gloves, shoes and pyjamas are not supplied in the Army issue to officers.

Members of the Australian Women’s Army Service, masseuses, Army nurses and V.A.D’s on full-time duty will receive a basic issue of 35 coupons. No distinction will be made between ranks.