FRENCH FLOUR IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.

Press, Volume LII, Issue 9030, 16 February 1895, Page 7

FRENCH FLOUR IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.

The new fiscal arrangements established in France early in the year with regard to tbe duty on wheat and on Hour (says an American Consular Report) aro already (July 18th, 1894) beginning to have an effect on the export of flour which seems to be very far reaching and to have an important influence on American shipments of Hour to tho United Kingdom. It will be remembered that the duty on wheat and flour was considerably increased by France, the avowed object being tb make the country self-supporting and to increase production to such an extent as to prevent the introduction of forei|n grov»th. The result of this policy, which probably, was not foreseen by the French Government, is now observable in a vigorous and determined effort on the part of the French millers to supply the British market with flour. All grades, from " Red Dog" up to a product which will compare favourably with the finest American winter patents, are being vigorously pushed at prices which aro at the present moment (July 18th), grade for grade Is (24 cents) per sack (240 pounds) cheaper than American. Their best grades are beautiful in colour, resembling the Oregon flour, so much admired here ; but they cannot compete in strength, and will lot bake up into so heavy a loaf. It is generally assured that the flour is made rom imported wheat, and that the drawback nade upon re-exportation in the shape of flour s so regulated as really amount to a cou.iderable bounty. If this be the case (and It is difficult otherwise to account for the dimensions already attained by the trade), it is evident that our American flour will have to meet an energetic, organised, and bounty-fed competition. It is also believed that there is a combination among the Fiench millers to limit domestic sales, thus maintaining domestic prioa. The result of such a policy, taken in connection with the payment of a drawback, is cortain. Large surplus stocks will be dumped into the United Kingdom, at a loss if need be.