WELLINGTON’S FIRST WOOL SALE

Dominion, Volume 26, Issue 67, 12 December 1932, Page 10

WELLINGTON’S FIRST WOOL SALE

Fine Sorts Sell Comparatively Well LOW PRICES FOR ORDINARY CROSSBREDS Returns to Growers Disappointingly Small Keen competition and very active bidding at the first Wellington wool sale of the season on Saturday failed to produce ary improvement in prices. Halfbreds, Southdowns and hue crosseds and other stylish super wools sold well at rates slightly firm on Auckland but . sorts below 50’s quality, which comprised the bulk of the otteung, , ’ riC Th"'SS£ i rf , ?he Sven selling brokers totalled 2WBO bales—slightly below the limit fixed by the New Zealand Y 00l . Committee—but this quantity was reduced somewhat by eleven - hour withdrawals. There was a very till bench Wers, rep e , senting Bradford, the Continent, Japan, Canada, Austialia, Dominion mills and local fellmongers and scourers.

The new dips offered were generally well-grown and in excellent condition, due to the favourable seasonable conditions. The catalogues included many very attractive lots that in past years would have brought good prices, but, unfortunately, it was only the finer sorts that commanded the buyers’ money on Saturday. Last week’s cable reporting a decline of a full halfpenny for wools of sO’s quality and below at the Lorn on wool sales was a bad omen for AV ell „ ton, and Saturday’s prices were affected accordingly. The catalogues included a fair quantity of held-over wools which experienced the full force of the economic blizzard. One line, for which lljd was refused two seasons ago, sold at Saturday well under one-half of that figure. Good Wool at Low Prices. The feelings of the large attendance of -rowers on Saturday as they watched ,’heir own and their neighbours clips going at prices that would have been considered absurd in 1929-30 were reflected in their tense attitudes and glum faces. The frequently excited bidding worked up all the afternoon by farthings to prices that were tragically low and well below the cost of production. As one farmer put it: “The buyers got good wool for a mere song. In many cases we are giving it away for little more than the cost of shearing, packing, and'cartage. The sale opened on a very low note, the first bid actually being 23d. Then followed a succession of low rates, and it was some minutes before 6d was heard in the calls of buyers. There was quite a flutter in the gallery when 9(1 was made by a very good line of halfbred ewes (Forsyth Island). In contrast with the monotonously low level of most prices which seldom rose above 5d or 6d, dizzy heights seemed to have been reached when Abbotsford’s good line of five bales of Southdown went to lid. The highest point of the sale was reached in a later catalogue by a very good lot of nine bales of Southdown which made 123 d. This wool was part of the clip of Messrs. A. and J. Gray, Parkvale, Masterton. Generally speaking, the sale was characterised by long successions of runs of 2|d, 33d, 3sd, 4-Jd, 4Jd, and similar low prices, sprinkled thinly with top bids of ' (lid, 7d, 73d, Bd, and SJd, but the latter only for good lines of halfbreds, Southdowns, Corriedales, and fine crossbreds. A typical page, taken at random from one of the catalogues, gives the following run of prices: 9 bales crossbred, 4}d; 5 bales crossbred ewes, 3d; 4 bales crossbred, 4d; 4 bales halfbred, 7|d; 8 bales fine crossbred, sd; 10 bales crossbred, 3id ; 7 bales Southdown, 83<I; 4 bales halfbred, 83<1; 4 'bales three-quarter-bred, 73d; 7 bales A crossbred, 4jd; 6 bales B crossbred, 33d; 5 bales C crossbred, 33 d ; 4 bales D crossbred, 3Jd; 10 bales crossbred ewes, 33d; 10 bales crossbred, 3Jd ; 8 'bales crossbred H, 5Jd; 24 bales crossbred ewe, 4)d; 10 bales crossbred H, 43d; 30 bales crossbred E, 3Jd; 4 bales B crossbred, 3d. Strong Competition at Low Limits. Buyers bid confidently,- and comparatively quietly in many cases, for the high-er-priced wools, which they were determined to have. Paradoxically, the most excited, and in many cases frenzied, bidding would come from, often, eight or ten buyers for lines that brought 3Jd up to, say, sd. Bradford and the Continetal buyers were the principal operators. The Yorkshire representatives were well in the picture and lifted a heavy weight of all counts of crossbreds. A feature of the sale was that pieces were relatively dearer in many cases than fleece wools, this being due to the. very strong competition of France. German operations were not f so pronounced as might have been expected. Super sorts were taken largely by Japan and Canada. Japanese agents bought very well throughout. Passings were fairly frequent at times, but not as heavy as had been expected in view’ of the state of the market. The sale went with a swing, buyers competing strongly on the most rigid limits, and the seven catalogues were disposed of in well under six hours. As one well-known broker .remarked: “AH fine sorts .sold fairly well, but it was "plain that crossbreds below 50’s were not wanted, except at disastrously low prices. With the heavy weight of crossbreds available, not to mention the held-ovet wool, the outlook is not reassuring in the Wellington province. It seems evident - that the South Island will have some very keen sales of halfbreds, these wools being most in demand.” The Range of Prices. The official range of prices for Saturday’s sale affords the following comparison with those of the closing sale of last season at Wellington on April 11: —

" THE EXPERTS’ VIEW

Reviews, by Selling Brokers

Interesting reviews of Saturday’s sale from the point of view of the selling brokers are given below, together with details of the principal realisations of many mo MURRAY^ROBERTS AND CO., LTD. Murray, Roberts and Co., Ltd., report: —The opening sale at Welliington was held to-dav, when large catalogues, totalling 2*9,500 bales in all, were, submitted to a very large attendance of buyers. Our catalogue, which was sold first, totalled 4046 bales, included in which was a fair quantity ot held-over wools. Those which had held their colour were well bid for at prices showing little variation from new season’s wools of similar style and yield, but seedy and badly stained lots were dull of sale. ‘ Some of the new season s wools opened up in attractive condition, but there was hardly the generally noticeable show of super style wools in evidence which the December catalogue usually affords, and prices realised for some of the larger clips on offer were very disappointing. Bradford was well in the market, but at disappointingly low prices, and many really good lines of medium crossbreds in show’y condition were sold in the region of 4(1. to 43d., fully Id. lower than at the corresponding sale of last season. Fine wools were in very keen demand, at prices somewhat above last December range. There were not very many Continental style wools offered, but for those on offer the buyers from the Continent bid freely, as also in all skirtings. Very few lambs were catalogued, hardly sufficient to t-~t the market. We sold in the room 80 per cent, of our offering, and quote as follows some of the prices received: —JEH, H 4d., E 3d.; AK, E 43(1., II 43(1.; Manga over G G B, E and AV, 4d.; TR, E 9Jd., H 43d.; Upper River, AH 53d., BH 43d.; R R B over AA’oodlands, sup. etgs. AA 4d etgs. A 3d.; E S over Parorangi, Rom. EHA 7Jd., Rom. H 5d., Rom. EAA 54(1., Rom. EA 43(1. ;F B Mcß, II 53d., E" 43d.; B V, A, 4d.; Rakatuma, HA 6d., EB 33d.; H T over Pikihuia, fine HA, 4jd.; Kaikurij fine AA 5Jd., fine HA 4d., AVB 4|d., EB 4d., C 23(1.; Kahinu, Down X 6d., fine EA 4d.; Belmont, AH 5Jd.; S. & Sons, over Parorangi, AV sd„ B 53d., pieces 4fd., bellies 33d.; Tunapo, H, 5d.; S Oates. H and E, 4}d.; Ohingaroa, halfbred A, 5d.; JII over T, HA 4id., EA 4d., EB 3Jd.; S P G, A 44d., B 34d., C 3d.; Motuhope over T Q, H 4Jd., EA 4}d„ EB 33d.; E T NA, fine EA 53(1., EB 4|d.; Belmont, EA 4d., pieces 33d., EB 33d.; Ruawaka over M R, fine AA 4Jd„ fine HA 4J(1., fine EA 4id. BH 4d., EB 33(1.; Te Mahora. fine Rom, RH 63(1., fine crossbred AH 6id., fine crossbred AH 5J(1., BH 4Jd.; H P C, AH 5d., BH 5d., BE 4d.. lambs Gid.: AVharehunga, fine A 5(1., B 4}d.; WJ B (underlined). AE, 4d.; Port Hardy. Ist halfbred 83c1., halfbred and fine BAVE Gd.; Rewa Rewa, AA 53(1., A 53d„ B 4d„ C 4(1.; Sin circle over Ware AA’are, necks 43d.; T A U, H 3}d.. W 34d.; Onawe, B 3?d., AA 7 " and R 33d.; AG M, Rom. H, 6Jd.; A 11. fine A 4|d., B 33(1.; D II over L, II 5d., E 43(1.; Roughhill, Corr. E 83d.; B A B over Z. II 43d., crossbred 4d.; E E S, fine E hogget, Gid.; Mahua, Rom. hogget, 73d.; Avoca, sup. HA Bd.. fine E 7(1.; Abbotsford. Southdown, lid.: N over J C, fine AAH Gid., fine AH 63d.; Y Y over Epworth, fine AA old., fine A 43(1.: Craigieburn. HA 53d., A 43d., B 4fd.; Taumata, E 41(1.; AVnkarna. fine AH 53d.. fine AJH 5(1., fine BH 44(1., fine BE 45(1., CH 4}d. LEVIN AND CO., LTD.

Levin and Co., Ltd., report: At the first sale of the 1932-33 season there were buyers from all consuming centres — Great Britain. United States', Canada, France, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Japan. Australia and Dominion mills. The total offering was 29,580 bales, towards which our catalogue represented 7900 bales. The new clip appears a shade better than the past two seasons. The staple is somewhat sounder, and in many instances will give a better weight per fleece. . , c We had a representative, catalogue ot Wairarapa and Manawatu crossbreds, but good halfbreds and merinos from Marlborough were in short supply as the sale was too early for the bulk of these wools, to the disappointment of those local nulls and oversea buyers who were in urgent need of supplies. . Bidding was vigorous up to a point, but it was evident that limits were.restricted. Most quarters were operating, particularly Bradford, France, Germany and Japan. Australia, France and the local mills were bidding freely for lambswool. Speaking generally, prices were down a.s against last December —Jd. to lid. for fine crossbreds, and Id. to 2d. for medium, coarse and low crossbreds'. As against last April, fine crossbreds were on a par, Medium, coarse, and low three-farthings to a penny lower. As there were no super halfbreds offering, a comparison cannot be made, but average grades showed some improvement on last year’s figures. Pieces and bellies sold at comparatively good rates to France and Germany., Growers generally were prepared to meet the market, and we sold 80 per cent, of our catalogue. The following are some of the results: Halfbred: IJK. 4 bales at 8d; Te Knniru. 9 bales at BJd : Spur, 16 bales at 9Jd, 18 'bales at Bsd. 8 bales at 9d. 14 bales at Sid; WJ-M/S, 4 bales at 73d» Maitai, 10 bales at 7Jd. 24 bales at 74d : EE/M, 4 bales at 7id ; Kai'warra, 8 bales at Sjd, 8 bales at 9d. Down: Pukete/JMK. 8 bales at GJd : Puketiri, 4 bales, at 9}d; DRL, 4 bales at 7Jd; Kaiwarra, 27 bales at lOd, 12 bales at 7|d. Crossbred: Ongaha, 1.1 bales nt 6d, 10 bales at 4Jd; REM/RURU, 4 bales at sd, 5 bales at 4Jd ; Broadlands/W, 12 bales at 83d; Langdale/PA, 8 bales at 4|d, 13 bales at 34d. 7 bales H at 4<l; Waiteko. 16 bales at 414, 21 bales at 43d. 7 bales II at 4?d. 9 bales II at 4d; PL/B, 6 bales at nd: Waimahoe. 5 bales at 4-Jd, 7 bales II at Gd ; SB/T, 4 bales at 3Jd : Parakura/MR. 5 bales II at ; Unia. 4G bales at 4}d. 25 bales II at 4Jd : Opnu, 19 bales at 71d, 6 bales II at 83d; Te Namu, 12 bales at GUI; JMA. 19 bales at 44, 6 bales at 33d, 7 bales II at Gid : Burnfield. 8 bales at 534; Te Munga, 7 bales' at 3]d, 12 bales II at 3}d ; Lyndon/ WL, 15 bales nt 4£d ;V on side L/AO, G bales at 4}d; IDA. 28 bales nt 4d, 5 bales at 33d, 5 bales H at 4J4 ; MJM/Hamenga, 8 bales nt 4Jd. 9 bales at 41d. 4 bales nt 33d, 8 bales H at 4}d; Bankview, 21 bales E at sd, 17 bales E at 3Jd,11 bales 'll at 54: RRIVV 8 bales at 43d; Rewanui, 19 bnles at 63d, 24 bales at 434. 12 bales II at 73d, 5 bales at 4Jd: TB/Waihi, G bales at 5Jd. 8 bales a. 6?d. 4 bnles at 744; LFP, 20 bales at 3Jd; B/Fernglen. 5 bales II at 734 ; Montero G bales at 44; Ortii, 3 bales at 8d 5 bnles nt s«d; TRC/2 in circle, 14 bales at 4Jd ; Willows/X. 19 bales at 44 ; MM I. 8 bales at 434; EBY. 12 bales at sd: AEC/T, 5 bales E at 33d; Te Kamru, 19

bales at. Gd, 25 bales at -lid, la bales 31(1, 5 bales at 3Jd, 7 bales II at old, ( bales II at 41, 4 bales II at’4(l, 8 bales II at 3-Jd; Broadlands/\A , 34 bales at 4Jd, 4 bales at 3D, 13 at 31d ; Beaumaris, 10 bales H at cl<l; Glenlean, 14 bales at 4]d; Moa, 5 bales at <d, .» bales A at 4)d, l'> 4 ? r alc at sld. 21 bales II at (>|d, 4 bales II at 41d; double hook/Elmley, 8 bales H at 43d; AVhare, 10 bales at ml; GAA S, <> bales at 4<l, 8 bales at 3d; Ohan, -o bales at -Id; PL in diamond, (> bales at 33d; SG/AV, 14 bales at 3{d; RCC/Tarehuru, 9 bales at 51d; SHR/Mt. Baker 8 bales II at 4d; CM. 15 bales at 5(1, 14 bales at 4d. 25 bales II lit Sd. 11 bales H at 51<H Pukete/JMK, 22 bales at 3,}d; Spur, 4;> bales at GJd, 29 bales at 4Jd S bales at 3d, 15 bales II at £>H, 7 bales at 4Jd; Rocky Glen, 10 bales at 4}d; MJM/Hamenga. 6 bales at 4|d. 53 bales at 3Jd; Mill Hill, 11 bales II at sd; T/TT2, It bales at 3Jd; AVJM/S, 5 bales _at 4.R1; JB over C. o bales II at od; JB over C, 5 bales II at 5(1; Reiki, 10 bales II at 43d : JB/TE. Apiti 15 bales at 53d, 6 bales II at 7d. 4 bales II at 4jfd: MCG, 7 bales at 4d; HBAV. 5 bales at 31d; LPL/Roskild. 25 bales at 33d; Matahiwi/JII. 8 bales at 33d, 5 bales at 3d. 10 bales H at 4RI, 4 bales at 3d ; JOB/ Pihautea. 26 bales at 4jd, 4 bales at 8 bales II at 4}d. 4 bales II at 4d, 6 bales II at 4d; JHT/Homewood. 19 bales at 53d, 14 bales at 33d, 4 bales at 33d. 13 bales at 63d. 6 bales at 43d; T/Ngaiana. 3 bales at 5Jd, 13 bales at sd, 4 bales at 34d, 8 bales at 43d. 3 bales II at 63d. 1() bales H at 4|d; Tuscan Hill, 38 bales E at 33d. 18 bales II at 3|d ; Part Te Parac/Rawhiti, 9 bales at 7Jd, 6 bales at 5Jd, 10 bales H at 8d; Te Awaputahi, 22 bales at s}d, G bales at sd, 14 bales 11 at Bd, 7 bales H at Gd; Matahiwi/JH, G bales at 5Jd, 31 bales at 4d, 9 bales II at 43d, 5 bales H at 3}d; Roaha. 8 bales at 4d; AA T eka, 33 bales at 3}d, 13 bales at 3d. 5 bales at 3}d, G bales at 3d. 24 bales II at sd, 5 bales II at 3Jd; DAS/ Cable Bay. 22 bales at 3Jd. 13 bales II at 43d; AVJG, 14 bales at 4Jd; SH/R. 4 bales at 4Jd; Te Rnngi, 5 bales II at 4d : WK/AVoodchester, 21 bales at 3fd; CCT/Waikohi, 4 bales at 3|d; Ardilea/L, 10 bales H at Sd ; TEC, 4 bales II at 7d, 4 bales II at sd; ADY in triangle/Tantainai, 4 bales H at 53d; Alpha, 4 bales at 34d. 4 bales II at 43d; Maitai, 6 bales at 4d, 11 bales H at 63d; Puketiri 8 bales z at 4}d; Paparata, 8 bales at 3fd; JC/Takarau, 8 bales at 43d; ROAV, 4 Tales H at 43d; B (reversed) LH. 17 bales H at 43d, 4 bales II at 33d; AA AA S, 28 bales at 43d, 8 bales II at 53d; Keewavdin, 17 bales at 4d ; RJH. 9 bales II at‘sd; Hillwood, 26 bales at 4Jd; Q/ Tawera. 15 bales at 4d, 8 bales at 3}d; Annedale 13 bales. Tanawha 21 bales, Ratanui 16 bales, 50 bales at s}d; xVnnedale 22 bales, Tanawha 25 bales, Ratanui 19 bales, 66 bales at 4Jd ; Annedale 2 bales, Tanawha 5 bales. Ratanui 5 bales, 12 bales at 4d; Annedale 3 bales, Tanawha 5 bales, Ratanui 4 bales, 12 bales at 33d,; Annedale 14 bales, Tanawha 14 bales. Ratanui 10 bales. 38 bales H at 7d; Annedale 12 bales, Tanawha 9 bales, Ratanui 9 bales, 30 bales II at 63d ; Annedale 6 bales. Tanawha 4 bales. Ratanui 10 bales, 20 bales at 43d; Annedale 3 bales, Tanawha 6 bales, Ratanui 5 bales, 14 bales at 43d; Annedale 1 bale, Tanawha 1 bale, Ratanui 2 bales, 4 bales at 43d; NT/E 4 bales at 33d; Te-Maire. 10 bales at 6d; NT/E, 13 bales at 33d; GHAV, 12 bales at 4d. Scales II at 43d; AM/Bnrnside, 20 bales H at 43d; BAH. 8 bales at 33d. 4 bales II at 4d; ARA/N, 4 bales at 4d; JHP/Paranui. 40 bales at 33d, 9 bales II at 4d ; Kohe Kohe, 4 bales at 53, 3 bales at sd, 7 bales H at <3d; C/ DR, 8 bales at 33d; R 8 AV, J bales at 6}d; T/Tewhanga, 9 bales at 53d, 1< bales at 53d, 14 bales at 3id, 23 bales H at s<l, 4 bales H at 4<l; HLO/K, I*> bales at 3d, 6 bales II at 3Jd; Rewa Rewa, 5 bales at 43d, 17 bales at 4d 10 bales at sd; Beaumaris. 8 bales at 33d; Hororata. 10 bales at 53d, 6 bales II at 73d; Kuri, 12 bales at 33d; I’ & S P, 9 bales nt 4d; D R L, 5 bales H at 43d; Te Miure, S bales Bin. at ; .JOB. i, 25 bales II at sd; Essendale, 4 bales at 43d; AVhitau, 31 bales at 4d; N B G, 22 bales at 43d; Bute, 16 bales at 5d 18 bales at 33d, 5 bales at 3d, 5 bales II nt 43d; Stratheden, 21 bales at. 3J!l; Ngatarahanga/FAS, 4 bales at 43d, 5 bales at 43d; Paitawa/oblong. 10 bales at 43d; CEMR, 9 bales at 3|d; Riverside/ C, 37 bales at 3}d, 9 bales at 4d; Opiki..9 bales at 33d; R A S, o bales at 33d: Tiraumea, 10 bales at 33d; D I E, 41 bales E at 33d; T A N G, 6 bales at 3fd, 9 bales at 3Jd, 5 bales at 33d, 7 bales H at 43d, 4 bales II at 33d; S J A. 4 bales at 4fd; S J A, 5 bales at sd; Tawatapu,,9 bales at 53d; HH/Oporua, 4 bales at s}d. 13 bales at 43d; Ranch, 14 bales at 33d, 6 bales II at (>ld, 7 bales 11 at 43d; Te Namu, 9 bales at 53d; AC/ S. 6 bales at 5d ; Kaiwarra. 5 bales F at GJd, 20 bales F at 5Jd, 27 bales coarse at 53d, 10 bales F at. 73d, 20 bales F at 6}d. 17 bales F at »3d. 14 bales F at 63d. 33 bales II nt 63d, 8 bales H at 43d. 28 bales F at 43d, 23 bales F at 4d, 41 bales F at. 33, 9 bales F nt 33d. 8 bales H fit 4d. 15 bales med. nt 4d, 11 bales med. 11, at 33d, 41 bales med. nt 33d, 29 bales coarse at 33d, 4 bales coarse at 33d, 29 bales coarse at 34d, 9 bales coarse nt 3jd. 35 bales at 33d. Lambs: JB. over C in circle. 4 bnles nt 53d; JHT/Homewood, 10 bnles at 7d ; Matahiwi/JH. 5 bales at 4d: AA r E. K A, 22 bales at 63. 5 bales at 43d; Ardilea/L. 4 bnles nt 73d : Meka. 3 bnles nt 73d; D F E. 5 bales at Gid; Ranch. 4 bales at sd. DALGETY AND CO.. LTD. Dalgety and Co., Ltd., report:—Growers of crossbreds were prepared for a low range of prices, as the rates established at the Auckland and Napier sales were most disappointing, Saturday's realisations brought it forcibly home to sellers as to the exact state of the market, and although we have not had time to look up back records, we think it safe to say that for medium stylo wools of from 44's/ 4(»’s and 46's/48’s qualities, prices at. this sale were as low as they have ever been since sales were inaugurated in the Dominion. It is needless to say that the position, is desperate, and many lots of fleece that were disposed of would not return shearing and sale charges. For the past two seasons , the phrase “selling well below the cost of production” has been freely used, and it was hoped that this year would at least show a little recovery, but the auctions so far held do not spread any glad tidings and the outlook for any immediate recovery in crossbreds is far from reassuring. AVith tile coarse wools out of fashion, and a much depreciated purchasing power for the manufactured article, it makes it difficult to see how any change for the better can come about in the near future. The carry-over is heavy, and with certain grades of crossbreds practically “not wanted.” makes, it seem as if an addition to the present carry-over will be recorded at the end of the 1932-33 selling season. Many growers who had held over and who had these wools catalogued for Saturday sale, decided to meet the market, and considering the low rates paid, the quittance at auction was satisfactory, about 70 per cent, selling. The quality and condition of the wools brought forward could only be classed as fair. Some of the new season’s clips were really good, being well grown, sound, and soft, whereas others were inclined to be a little harsh and hairy. Some hogget wools opened up well, character and soundness being satisfactory. ... To briefly summarise the position, the outlook for strong and medium crossbreds is far from satisfactory, and the question now to be faced is, should growers of such wools meet the market, and sell at ruling rates, or hold over and add to the present accumulation of a type of wool that is out of favour, with a supply much in excess of the demand. AA’e are inclined to favour selling, for the sooner the surplus is got rid of—even at tragically low rates—the question, "AVill confidence be restored” and the bogey of a heavy carry-over will be dispelled. There is no difficulty in selling halfbreds, and the South Island, where the majority of the' elips are 50's and upwards, should have quite a good selling season, with prices at least coming close to cost of production. We would strongly urge growers of medium strength crossbreds not to offer their wool unless they are prepared to sell at about the rates as shown in the range of prices. xAt this sale we had im]iossible reserves placed on some lines, and it is useless wasting money to offer such clips and add unnecessary work to buyers in valuing wools which are really not for sale. We offered some very attractive clips, both of crossbreds and fine wools from Marlborough. The well-known Benopai and Redwood merino clips sold well, the top lines bringing from 83 to 9d. In half-

breds JOB 83d., AVyehills 83d., B and AV., Pelorus, 81d., and BI 11/011 Bjd. were among our best sales. An outstanding .sale, ami top price ot the day was 123 d. for 9 bales of super Southdown brand. JG/Parkvale, on account of the well-known stud breeders, Messrs. A. and J. Gray, of Masterton. The line was secured by the well-known Scottish firm of Baldwins and Batons, after keen competition with a Dominion mill buyer. In Romneys were offered some super line, “Branscombe,” a/c Dr. C. Ik Knight, Akitio, ami ACK. a/c Mr. K. Innes Manawatu, making 83d. xA. nice line ot slightly stronger stud Romney M/1’ ernlea, a/c Mr. M. xk. Conway, Kiwitea district, making 73d. These three clips showed good character and soft handling. . . The following is our range ol principal realisations: — Merino: 6 Redwood 9d„ and 6 at i Id., and 6 at 7d.; 12 Benopai 9d. and 13 at 83d. and 9 at 83d. Halfbred: 4 The Dalton/JB, 83d.; 6 J JCB, 83d.; 8 AVSF/P., 63d.; 12 AVGR, 7d.; 5 JAV, Sd.; 4 Eyebrow over 3, 73d’; 6 Viewmount, Sd.; 7 BM, 83d.; 7 I-iappy Valley, 73d.; 7 Kawiu, 73d.; 12 B3X, 33d.; 4 HAVS/T, 03d.: 8 AVyehills, 83d.; 4 Parea, 43d.; 9 DMR, 33d-; 22 AGC, 33d.; 4 Redwood, <3d.; 44 CEV/I’ukenui, 33d.; 5 RCS, 33d.; 40 MRC 33d.; 5 MAP, 7d.; < LLTB, Bd.; 15 EFH/OTI, 83d.; 3 B & AV/Pelorus, 83d • SBD 7d.; 8 RLFP, Bd.; 19 AVharangi, Bd.; 6 Kirikiri, Bd.; 4 Honjeburn/ B & C, 83d.; 5 JD (conjoined) over eyebrow, 73d.; S AVPF, Bd._; 8 Baton, 53d.; 4 MT/T, Bd. . Crossbred: 6 E reversed P conjoined/ Maraenui, 73d.; 4 AVBX. 53d.; 17 Branscombe, 53d.; 5 xAH/PN, 6d.; 4 x\.CK, (Hd • F reversed D conjomed/AVairewa. •5d ' Q 0 Fernlea, 53d.; 4 DP, 43d.; 13 AVFH, 33d.; 8 AE/T 23d.; 8 APII, 43d • 5 AL, 33d.; 6 Horoeka, 43d.; oO UN conjoined. 4d.; 12 lAB. 43d.; 8 GHP 43d.; 4 PUR, 23d.; 22 AA aterfalls. 33d.;’ 5 Nuiwai, 2H; 9 AAV, 3‘ld.; 26 JG/Parkvale, 6d.; 8 Maunga/Raki, u3d., 8 AVirokino, 4?<1.; 4 Happy Valley, ml.; 11 GEA/T. 23d.; 4 AVIIT, 4d.; 31 CEV/ AVestward/Ho. 33d.; 7 ITIB, 4d.; 4 ALl’ / P 5d.; 12 AA’eka/7N, 3d.; 14 RB/S, ‘lid • 12 BM, 3d.; 8 Cape/Jackson, 43d.; 5 Tutrumuri. 43d.; 11 Porta. 23d.; 10 TCR 33d.; 8 FF/M, 6d ; 6 HMG 3d ; 4 W in circle. □}(!.; 6 Nikau, 3^(1., 11 P reversed 3/P. ; 12 TBT, 3d.; 9 EFH/OTI. 33d.; 10 B & AV/Pelorus, 5d • 15 FJR, 33d.; 6 IPU. 33d.; AV AVoodvale, 4d.; 27 DNxVFernside, 4d.; 19 Cliftongrove, 53d.; 63 Kirikn-i, 43 ( 1.; 8 Tawanui, 33d.; 6 GIIS/Pauls/Run, 43d • 12 MC/Raurimu, 2}d.; 4 JP/R, 3d.; 14 AVC/P, 3d. Hoggets: 16 Branscombe, 83d.; ,f Rameslie. 73d.; 4 ACK, 83d. ;4 E reversed P conjoined/Maraenu), <3d.; < AVBX, 64d.; 5 W in circle, Gd.; 6 JEH/Matre, Gd.; 6 Tutrumuri. 63<1.; lO Fernlea, 7d.; 15 HN conjoined, 43d.; o A X 1/M, 3d.; 5 C3/Rongomai, 5d.; o JMM/0, 33d.; 4 Ngamotu, 31d.; 9 Maunga/Raki, 4d • 5 BM, 5d.; 4 AVirokino, 4d.; 6 SA, Gd.; 10 Kawiu, 53d.; 16 Hama, 33d.; 7 KMK, G3d.; 6 Arakoa, 53d.; ( HBD/ Glenwarlock, 53d.; 4 WHT, 43d.; o Cape/Jackson, 43d.; 5 COUP, 43d.; J ND, 3d.; 5 AVPF, 5d.; 5 Burnley/eyebrow over AS, 33d.; 4 AH/PN, 43d.; 12 Arata. sjd.; 5 FAV/Aotea, 43d.; 5 F re_versed D conjoined/AVairewa. 6d.; o ACM, 53d.; 10 FJSS, 53d.: 5 B & L/ Mayfield. 7d.; 4 AVJB, 33d. ; point, 53d.: 10 Tawanui, 43d.; •> BAA P, 43d.; G KJD/Pahflat, 53d.; 5 Mnngatau. 4d Bellies and pieces: 12 HN conjoined, 33d.; 4 C3/Rongomai. 33d.; 4 Flatpoint, 3d.; 4 E reversed P conjoined/Maraenuh 33d.; 4 JG/Parkvale. 33d.; 6 Maunga/Raki, 33d.; 4 EAVC, 23d.; 14 Happv Valley, 33d.; 4 Arakoa, 23d.; o Cape/Jackson." 34(1.; 4 Tutrumuri. 2}d.: 4 AVPF. 33d.; 5 AV in circle. 33d.; 4 Arata, 23d,: 4 AATBX. 33(1.; 5 Fernlea, 33d. 4 AVP/Kiwi. 23d.: 4 EFH/OTI, 4jd.; 40 Kirikiri, 33d.; 10 Cliftongrove, 33(1. Crutchings: 10 Flatpoint. 33d and 12 at 3d. ; 4 Ngamotu, 3d.; 6 RHL/0. 13d. ; 6 iliron, 13d.; 7 LLTB, 2fd.: 7 TM, 23d ; 4 AA’JG/Lake. 13d.; 4 AVyehills, 3d ; 5 Arakoa, 23d.: 5 Brancott, 33d.; 4 MT/T, 13d.; 0 Cliftongrove, 3d. WRIGHT, STEPHENSON, AND ABRAHAM AND WILLIAMS.

AA’right, Stephenson and Co., Ltd., and Abraham and AVilliams Ltd. report as AVe offered a catalogue o£ 3469 bales at the first sale of the local series. Seventy-live per eent. of our offering was disposed of under the hammer, and at the conclusion of the sale several passedin lots were sold. Our total clearance by auction and privately amounted to 82 per cent, of our total offering. On the average values realised at Auckland and Napier sales, fine wools —fifties and overs — were slightly firmer, good crossbred showed little or no change, coarse and inferior wools were on the whole erratic and may be quoted as slightly easier. Pieces and crutchings, in comparison with piece wool, sold unexpectedly well, pieces being mainly taken by" France. Until today’s sale, Bradford’s competition this season lias been comparatively negligible, but at to-day’s auction Bradford 'buyers were the mainstay of the market. Our offering came from all parts of the Wellington province and Nelson. Most of the wools in our catalogue were farmers’ clips; the station clips will be offered at a later series..

Growers, although realising that, today’s values, on the average, are well over 50 per cent, under the cost.of production, were inclined to meet the market. It must be admitted that low-grade crossbreds in particular met a dreadful reception. and on a gold basis were really worth almost nothing. Oil a survey of world conditions, there is no evidence to suggest, the probability of prices making a sudden and decided advance. .All the world is hard up. and the average man prefers to he shabbily clad rather than to go hungry. Of the two evils, he naturally prefers the former. Under such conditions, the demand for wear (woollen or any other) will not improve. As a matter of fact, the woolgrowing industry is in a chaotic and desperate condition, and an increasing number of growers are'being brought to ruin. Their spending power has now almost entirely disappeared, and their unfortunate plight is daily becoming more and more reflected on all sections of the community. Of all the farmers in New Zealand, since the slump, the man whose main income is derived from wool has been the hardest, hit, and so he continues to be. Some of our best realisations wore:— Hnlfbred : EBUX/ATS, 13 bales at 9d ; Tetlev Brook. 7 bales at 834 ; EBUX/ ECG,' 4 bales at 7}d. Southdown: D-O, 7 bales at lid. Crossbred hoggets: Valhalla/lIC, 5 bales at B.ld, 8 bales at 63d; AVhurepaku, 4 bales at 53d ; Papanui, 8 bales at s|d, 4 bales nt 4Jd ; K Bros, 11 bales at 53d; AJAV/Mahoe, 10 halos at 43(1; Ngakouka, 9 bales at sd. 6 bales at 4d ; Fern, 8 bales at. sd; HC/AVaikuku, 11 bales at 5Jd; I’B. 4 bales at 43(1; Haumarire, 6 bales at 51d ; JAVM, 4 bales at (Qd ; AV (under, lined)/!’, 4 bales at 41(1; Ngamati/CRJ, 7 'bales at s}d; AA’JF/Utiku, 4 bales at 43d; AA’hnrehau/I’HM, 5 bales at 63(1; CRB, 6 bales at sd; ACC. 4 bales at sd: Seaforth. 5 bales at 5Jd; JLC„ 4 bales at 6d; A Bros, 4 bales at 53d; EBUX/OaklandS, 6 bales at 4Jd; Aehdalieu, 7 bales at sd; Puketiro. 7 bales at sd.

Crossbred : Sugarloaf, 4 bales at 63d, 6 bales at 5Jd, 6 bales at 4; E & M, 5 bales at 53d: AVharepaku, 27 bnles at 5Jd; PF/O, 7 bnles nt 5d ; KBUX/JG, 4 bales at sd; EBUX/F'L. 9 bales at 4jd; I’OR/AA'aitolui, 8 bales at 4Jd; x\KS, 9 bales at 4Jd ; JG/L, 5 bales at 53d; Gumgrove, 7 bales at 4(1; Craigielea. 5 bales at sd, 15 at 4(1; Papanui, 9 bales at s|d, 13 'bales at sd; F'TLH. 4 bales nt 5(1; K Bros, 4 bales at 53d ; ELR/lU, 8 bales at 4d; Ngakouka, 21 bales at 4jd; ON, 5 bales at 43d; EBUX/ECC. 6 bales at 4Jd ; EBUX/R. 4 bales at 5Jd; TC/G, 6 bales at 4{d ; E reversed joined to R, 9 bales at sjd. 12 bales at 4d ; JAVM, 6 bales at 4d; AVJF/Utiku. 25 bales at 4d ; Avilion, 6 bales at 4jd; AVB, 16 bales at 53d; I’l/ r/Tluia, 21 bales at 4d ; CRB, 13 bales at 4jd; Seaforth, 4 'bales at s}d, 4 bales at 41(1. 9 bales at 4}d; JLC, 9 bnles at 4Jd; HTC, 4 bales at 4d; EBUX/DIX/ D. 5 bales at 43d ; Bingley, 11 bnles at 4jd ; Pnketiro. 10 bales at 4d ; Linkwood. 6 bgles at 43(1. Lambs: Kohanga, 4 bales at 73d.

Bellies and pieces: AVharepaku, 7 bales at 33d ; Papanui. 4 bales at 3}d. 5 bales at 3)d: K Bros. 8 .bnles at 31d; Ngakouka, 7 bales at 33d; Sugarloaf. 4 bales nt 31d; On, 4 bnles at 3}d; HJ/G, 4

bales at 33d; E reversed joined to R, 5 bales at 33d; AVharehau/JIIM, 8 bales at 4d, 5 at 31d. N.Z. LOAN & MERCANTILE AGENCY. New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Ltd., reports as follows At the first wool sale for the current season in this centre a total offering of approximately 29,586 bales was submitted, of which our quota was 3134 bales. There was a full bench of buyers, representing Bradford, the Continent, Japan, Dominion mills, and local fellmongers and scourers. Competition was very keen and more general than at the previous two sales held this season. Bradford and the Continent were the principal operators, with Japan picking up suitable lots, the French section securing the bulk of bellies, pieces and crutchings. The selection of this year’s dip was fairly good, but quite a lot of old wool were’ included in the catalogue and these, for the most part, were yellow and discoloured, with the result that competition for them was not keen and to effect the sales low prices had to be accepted. The following are a few of the prices realised by us:—J/B/Linton, 73d; C/S, 8d; HS/MR, S3d; HS/MR, 63d ; MXV, 73d; JAVII, 63d; THG/Tawataia, 43d; Moeraki, 83d; Matai/MJL. 5(1; 880, 44d; FM/F3, 7jd; FK/Otari, 53d; Lionsback, 73d ; Mironui, 93d; DW/OJ, 63d; AFM. (id; VT, 63d; JC/lorangi, 43d; HJ/G, 53d; Glenroy, 4d; D/XL, 43d; Grope, 73d; Huiawa, 93<1; ZV/AV, 94d; Makiekie, 63d; Graignenk, 73d; Craigneuk, 83d; Burford, 6d;.CAA r H/P, 63d; Pl, 43d: IJF/Ngarara, sd; Ederdale, s|d; AAVS, 9d; IJF/Tini. 63d; Leatham, 83d; AVR/The Cliffs, 93d; AVQ, 83d ; A’/Pokorua, 43(1; -AF. 8d ; AVI’/ Tekopi, 63d ;' Maungahina/JMK, 43d; OHN, 9d; KD.T/AA’AK, 43d; Glencoe/ MBM, 7d; ESD. sd; Tiratahi, 8d; J. 83d; FE/AV, 5d ; CMR/A, 43d; NPN, 53d; CRJ/K, 53d ; DAV/O.T, 73d: TR/Rimu, 6d; AVR/AV, 73d: Craigie, Gd. WAIRARAI’A FARMERS’ CO-OP. ASSOCIATION, LTD. AVairarapa Farmers’ Co-op. xVssoeiation report;—AVe offered an attractive catalogue on behalf of growers in the AVairarapa, Dannevirke, Manawatu, Sounds, and local districts, but from the outset it was obvious that prophecy of reduced prices was unfortunately to be fulfilled. Quality wools of over 46’s were in keen demand at fairly satisfactory prices having regard to the market, but coarse and indifferent types were not wanted except at a very low range of values. AVools classed and binned by us realised relatively high prices, but, taken altogether, the sale was extremely disappointing. Some of our sales are :— Hoggets—Rotoparae, 8d; LL, Sd ; Rotoparae, 73d; LL, 73d; KS, 73d; MB/B, (id ; Omata. Gd ; LF, 6d ; Quay, 6(1; MB/ B, 53d; Okau. 53d;.HED/T. 53d; BM/ Mangarawa, 5.3 d; AEC, 53(1; LAVAV, 53d ; Quay, 53d; Okau, 53d, 43(1, 43(1: LAVAV, s|d ; DS in block, 53(1, 4d; K Bros, 63d ; J thistle AV, (id; Morton/OL, 53d; Benmore, 54(1; JP/T, 3j(l; JHG/Glenview. 43d; AHC. 43d ; CA over bar, 43d; CD/ Ratanui, 43d, 4d. Ewes and AVethers—Rotoparae, 73d ; LL, 73d; KS, 73d ; Rotoparae, 53d ; LL, 53d; KS. 53d; DS in block, 4; Okau, 4jd; .TAO, 43d; AHA, 43d; BVK, 43d; OX, 43d; Omata. 43d; Quay, 43d; JC/ .Al, 43(1; Okau, 43d: Kumuhunga, 43d; LF, 43d; LAVAV, 43d. 4d; JHG/Glenview, 34d; J thistle'AV. 53d, 33d; AHC, 43d; ML. 33d; Tarua, 33d; BM/Mangarawa. 33d; CA over bar, 4d; HED/T, 33d; JP/K, sd; .IT, 3d; Piriaka/BAVD, 43d; CD/Ratanui, 4d; RY, 33d; MB/ B, (id; JAO, Gd; BM/Maugarawa, Gd; xA.EC, Gd: AA'DAVAV. Gd; Quay, 6; Milverton. 6(1: JAO, 43(1; Pahiatua/MA, 43(1; LAVAV, 43d; LBB, 43(1; J thistle AV, 43d; Rotoparae, 43d; Quay, 43d; Milverton, 43d; DU. 4(1; Omata, 43d: JAO, 43d; LAVAV, 43d; LF, 43d; Quay, 43d ; J thistle AV, 43d. Southdown—JAO. 93d; RFG/Y, 93d; LS, 93(1; AHT/S, 9Jd ; BM/Mangarawa, 93d ; Quay, 93d. Lambs —Piriaka/BAVD, 53d ; LAA’AV, 5 ]d: AVAV/AV, 53d: AHC, s|d; J thistle AA , 1 53d; Benmore, 53(1. Necks—DS in block, 53d; HE/Y, 43d: MB/B, 43d; OX, 43d; LAVAV, 43d; J thistle AV, 43d; Omata, 43d; Quay, 43(1. Pieces and Bellies—DS in block, 3}d, 2}d, 23d : K Bros., 83d ; HE/Y, 43d ; OX, 43(1; MB/B. 43d: LAVAV, 43d; J thistle AA’, 4 3d; LL, 43d; Pigeon Bush, 43(1; KS, 43d; Rotoparae. 4|d; Omata, 4|d ; Quay. 43(1; Piriaka/BAVD, 3d ; HED/T, 3d; Quay, 3d; JHG/Glenview, 3d; JC/ M. 3d ; JP/T, 2d.

Crutchings—LAVAV. 3d : AR/Pukeuui, 3d ; LL. 3d ; EHH/l’inehills, 3d ; HE/Y, 3(1; PHN/Eringa, 3d; Rotoparae, 3d; Quay, 3d. N.Z. FARMERS* CO-OP. DISTRIBUTING CO.

The New Zealand Farmers’ Co-op. Distributing Co., Ltd., reports as follows:— Our catalogue comprised 3655 bales. AVe offered some choice new season’s clips from the AVairarapa and Rangitikei districts and these realised values on a par with those ruling at the recent Napier sale, and those suitable for Japanese requirements were, if anything, a shade dearer.

Fine wools of nil descriptions were in excellent demand, but crossbreds, with the exception of those showing style and quality, were bought at extremely low values. - French and German buyers competed keenly for pieces and bellies, and these sold at relatively higher values than fleece wool.

.Our principal sales were as follow:— Southdown —800. lid; REP, lid; A’arious, lid; JH/Longview, 93d ; HA/ Omoana, 93d; AVH/Beaumont. 93<1; HB conjoined, 93(1; DR, 9jd; JGH. Sid. Super fine hoggets: AA’harepapa/CM, 7}d to S3d ; Hare, 81(1; Kamano. Sd; Mellington, 7Jd ; AVP/Penrose, 7?d ; JHD/ Ngatawa, 7Jd; AVGP. 7-jd. Fine hoggets: AVP/Penrose, 53d to 7d; Co-op., 53d to 7(1; RMcA/Grenray. 63d; TT, 53(1; Kestrels, 53d; Hare. 5Jd; Tinui, 5-fd ; AVH/Beaumont, 53d ; PZ, 53d ; HA/ Omoana, 53d; JH/Longview, 53d; HB. 63d; Motu-Kowhai, 6}d ; Glenstrae. 6|d; Tokaron, 63d; F/I’ukunui, 53d; Co-op., 6J(1; Mellington, 6}d ; Bushfurlong/R, 6Jd; Makariri. 64d; MG/Ranmunga, sfd ; Ahau, 5Jd ; Kamano, 53(1; Various, 5Jd to 63(1.; Kuril, 6d. Crossbred Hoggets—P. 5d ; Rimu, 5d ; Riverbend, 4Ad: LBL, 4jd ; AVHD, 4d; OH/CF, 43d; FS/AVainui. 43d; Tinui, 53d; NRAV, 43d; HB, sd; HHD, 4d; JGAV, 43d: Glenstrae, 4Jd; JS/F, 4d to 5(1; Kuril, 43(1; DGG/AVairere, sd; AR/Gleuview, 5Jd; AJH, 5(1; RM/ Springhill. 41(1. Hoggets: TAV/Korori, 43d ; T/KK, 53(1; JHD/Temaire, 43(1; A’arious. 43(1 to 5(1; GLM, 43d. Superfine crossbred : Otahuao, 6d to 7Jd ; AA’harepapa/CM, 6(1;' AVH/Beaumont, 73d; Matakitaki. 73d; AVP/Penrose. 7d. Fine crossbred: NMK, 4Jd; RMcA/ Glenray, 4Jd; AA’harepapa/CM, 4jd ; Kestrels, 4Jd ; Fairleigh/JJT, 53d ; FS/AA’ainui, 53<1: Flatspur. 43d; AVII/Bcaumont, 53(1; Battlehill, 43d to 53d; HBM/ Rathkeal, sd; JS/F, 4}d; F/Puknnui, 4Jd; AVFM/New Zealand/TB&S, 53d; Co-op, 53(1; R in circle. 53(1; Mellington, 53d; Kuru, 4}d; Wl’/Penrose, 53d; JHD/Temaire, 43d; A’arious, 4Jd; JMAV, 43d. Medium crossbred: FO/R. 33d; AB/ Opaki, 33<1; AIRD, 3»d; MDC, 3Jd; Hoheria. 3Jd ; Makariri, 4d ; Epworth, 3Jd; OH/CF, 4d; TT, 4d ; EPCS. 3J(I; Greenwood/Side, 3Jd ; ZZ/Ta<lcroft, 3Jd ; MDC, 4d; K.LM. 33d; Totarahills, 33d; Kowhai, 43d; Tinui, 33d to 4d; CJC/ 11, 33d; HB conjoined, 3}d; MG/Raumuuga, 4d : ORP. 4d ; Matauia, 33d ; Wondal. 33d to 4jd ; Ederdale. 33d ; Tokaroa, 4d : Co-op, 33d to 4d ; N/AVairere, 4d; A’4/K. 3Jd; 1{ in circle, 33d; GLL, 3.}d; T/FE/C. 33d; Ahau, 3|d; Kamano, 4d ; A’arious. 3ld to 3Jd ; T/KK. 33d ; GLM. 4d ; GUM. 33d. Strong crossbred: RF/AVaiawa, 4d; CH/AAVA 33d: NMK. 3d; LBL over line,Jld; PZ. 33d: Epworth. 3d; AVharepapa/CM. 31d; Otahuao. 4ld; Tinui, 33d ; Rock, 4d : DC. 3Jd ; JF/C, 3d ; Matauia. 33d: F/Pukunui. 3}d; Co-op. 33d; AR/Glenview. 3d ; CXZ. 3fd; R in circle, 33d ; Mellington. 3d ; Burnbrae, 33d; Kiwi. 3d; HBM/Rathkeal, 3d; A’arious. 3d.

Lambs: Hare. 63d ; A’arious. 5J(1; FT/ Huia, 63'1: US conjoined, 5Jd; Glenstrne. 53d. Necks: A’arious. 6jd. Pieces: Otahuao. 43d ; AA’l’/Penrose, 4d to 5d ; MDC. "3d; Flatspur. 4d ; Tinui. 33 d; Link, 4d; Glenstrae. 31(1 to sd; AVFM/New Zealand/TB&S. 5d : Tokaron. 43d; A’arious. 33d to 44(1. Bellies: AVharepapa/CM. 33d ; Fairleigh/JJT. 23<1; Glenstrae, 3d ; Matnuiai 2Jd ; A’arious, 2Jd to 33d. Crutchings: Good. 23d to 33d: inferior and seedy. Id to 2.1(1. Locks: Id to 13d.

CUT IN RELIEF PAY Protest at Auckland MAYOR SYMPATHETIC Government Action Urged By" Telegraph.—Press Association. Aucklaud, Dec. 11. A vigorous protest against the recent reductions in the unemployment relief pay was made at a crowded meeting held in the Town Hall this afternoon. Mr. F. E. Lark, president of the Unemployed AVorkers’ Association, presided, and the proceedings, while occasionally noisy, were orderly, earning the ap- • proval of the mayor, Mr. G. AV. Hutchison, who attended the meeting with members of the City Council, several members of Parliament, and a number of trade union representatives. •1 telegram from the Acting-Minister of Employment, Hon. A. Hamilton, stated the reductions would be reconsidered by Cabinet to-morrow. A message was sent in reply to representations by relief workers, Auckland members of Parliament, the Mayor of Auckland and a number of social organisations, who pointed out the hardship that would be imposed upon large numbers of people during the Christpias season. The mayor said he had acquainted the Government by letter, telegram and telephone of the serious hardship inflicted in Auckland by the 10 per cent, reduction in unemployment pay. If the Unemployment Board persisted with the cut he would feel obliged to take such steps as might be necessary to represent fully to the board and the Government the feeling of the jieople of Auckland on the subject.

xt resolution was carried “calling on the Government immediately to make provision for the safeguard of the people of New Zealand, first by immediately putting into operation the Sustenance xAct of 1930 as agreed upon by our representatives in Parliament, full sustenance to be given where work at ruling rates cannot be provided; (2) to make provision for a conference of landlords, unemployed and members of Parliament; (3) to make equal provision for both sexes and single men and women in accordance with their responsibilities; (4) that all work provided be at ruling rates of pay; (5) that all camp work which entails separation be absolutely voluntary and paid for at rates of pay ruling for that class of work.”

April 11. Dec. 10. d d d d Merino— Extra super .... None None Super . None 9 Average 5J to B 7i to 84 Infnr i nr 44 to 54 6j to 74 Fine halfbred. 56/58— Extra super .... None 10J to 12* S n per None 9 to 101 Average 5’ to 81 (11 to 9 Inferior 31 to 5A 54 to 64 Medium halfbred, 50/56— Extra super .... None None Super .... Up to 91 84 to 9} Average 6 to Hi Gt to s* Inferior 4J to 4f to 63 Extra fine crossbred, 48/50 — Super 6 to 74 6 to 74 Average 4} to 52 4 to 6 Inferior 24 to 4 4 Fine crossbred, 46/48 —• per 5 to r” 41 to 6J Average 3} to 4-1 3j to 41 Inferior 24 to 31 2 to 31 Medium crossbred, 44/4(5— Super 5 to 6 4| to 5t Average 3$ to 41 3 to 41 Inferior 1 to 34 it to 2£ Coarse crossbred, 40/44 — Super Up to 7 33 to 5} Average 3J to 51 21 to 31 Inferior 1 to 3 14 to ”4 Low crossbred, 36/40 — Super I • p to 4f Average 24 to 4 2 to 4 Inferior Up to 21 None Hoggets, 48/50 .... 3} to y 4i to 83 Fine. 46/48 3* to 6 3 to 71 Medium, 44/46 .. 3} to ;, 2J to Coarse, 40/44 .... 3 J to 4131 to 51 Low, 36/40 .... Up to ; H 4} . Lambs— Down, .50/56 6 to 6* 4* to Fine, 44/50 4} to «i 5 to 71 .Medium, 40/44 ... Up to 3J 3 to 4 Seedy and Inferior 1 to 4 1 to 4 Hellies and pieces— .Merino: Good to super .. None Low to medium None 33 Halfbred: Good to super .. 3 to 3J 3i to •>* Low to medium .. 2 to 3j 2 to 21 Crossbred: Good to super .. 24 to 51 24 to Low to medium .. * to 23 1 to 34 Cru tellings— Medium to good .. 2* to 31 2 to 4 Inferior and seedy 4 to 2 A 4 to Locks— Merino ........ 1 to 1* None I-Tnlfbred ...... None None Crossbred 4 to 13 1 to