STEPS TO PREVENT PROFITEERING

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 256, 25 July 1936, Page 10

STEPS TO PREVENT PROFITEERING

Establishment of a Magisterial Tribunal

BASIC PRICES AND SUBSTANTIAL PENALTIES FOR BREACHES

All-Day Debate on Wages Restoration

Almost a full day was given in the House of Representatives yesterdhy to the second reading debate on the I'inance Bill, which seeks to restore wages and salaries to the 1931 level. Bota Government and Opposition members took part in the discussion, and several Independents also expressed their views. No serious objection was taken to the measure, but Mi. vv. J. Polson (Opposition, Stratford) particularly emphasised a feeling of apprehension concerning the huge expenditure that would be involved. Some surprise was expressed that the Government had delayed the promised restoration of salaries and wages. Just before the House adjourned at 5.30 p.m. for the weekend a Prevention of Profiteering Bill was introduced by GovernorGeneral’s Message. The measure, which was read a first time, lays down the procedure for fixing basic prices for goods and services. Provision is made for the appointment of a tribunal consisting of a magistrate alone.