THE PRICE OF MEAT.

Waikato Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 1554, 20 June 1882, Page 3

THE PRICE OF MEAT.

TO TIIK EDITOR. Sir, — lii your issue of the 17th inst., "Fanner" moots a question worthy of the serious consideration of every producer and consumer of beef in Waikato. It is a matter of surprise to me that producers have ho long borne the existing state of affairs. The demand is as great now as it was when it was worth 30s, and the consumers pay just as much now as they did then. Is the supply so very much in excess of the demand as to cause the present low rates, or is there a combination among the butchers and auctioneers ? Many of the latter are, we have reason to believe, extensively interested in the butchering business. The old saying that "the farmer pays for all," is well exemplified just now. It is a great pity that no matter in which direction you travel, you hear of farms for sale, and the cry meets you that farming docs not pay. If the farmers have to sell their beef at rates that will not recoup the first cost, it is time the alarm was sounded. Co-opera-tion is, I think, the only cure ; at all events some move is necessary in order to " secure the producer a fair share of the profits. I will not debate the question as to the most suitable position for a slaughtering establishment ; no doubt Ngaruawahia possesses the double advantage of a railroad and rivers. This would tend to a certain extent to facilitate delivery of beef in wholesale quantities. There is one thing certain, a considerable saving in freight would be made by slaughtering in Waikato. The offal would, I havo no doubt, pay all working expenses. The further details I leave to those more competent than your humble pervaiit. Touching the present system of farm.

ing in Waikato, I have heard many experienced persons say that a complete revolution is necessary. Hoping the question introduced by "Farmer will be fairly discussed, and that you will kindly insert this, — I am, &c, Pbogrkss. Waipa, 19th June, 1882.