OUT OF STOCK.

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 13, 16 January 1940, Page 4

OUT OF STOCK.

FOOD SUPPLIES.

MASTER GROCERS' PLAINT.

ESSENTIAL COOKERY NEEDS.

Reports that some essential cookery materials were now unprocurable from wholesalers were made at a meeting la.st night of the executive of the Auckland Master Grocers' Association. Ihe secretary of the association, Mr. R. M. Barker, stated to-day that the lack of supplies was a direct repercussipn of the import restrictions, though some lines might be affected by the war.

"It is not now so much a question of a shortage as of a complete lack of stocks." said Mr. Barker. "The most noticeable lack is in baking powder, cream of tartar, bicarbonate of soda, corn Hour and matches, both wooden and wax. For the past week the grocers have been compelled to ration supplies as far as possible, but the present lack of stocks, has placed theni in the unenviable position where they are compelled to refuse custom.

"The position is affecting housewives, who are unable to procure certain lines essential for baking purposes. Wooden matches have been in short supply for the past few months, and since Christmas have been almost unprocurable, the position being eased by the availability of wax vestas. However, even wax vestas are now unprocurable from wholesale houses.

"The grocers wish to assure the public that their inability to supply the full requirements of many lines is caused by circumstances entirely beyond their control."

The question of lack of essential supplies was referred liy the meeting of the master grocers' executive to the Dominion conference, to be held in Wanganui on January 29.