RESTRAINT A VIRTUE

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 133, 8 June 1942, Page 4

RESTRAINT A VIRTUE

Although the public generally have shown admirable restraint in their

shopping activities, even when rumours have reached their ears about possible future rationing, it is evident from reports published last week that there is a section that is not prepared to act with such consideration and such wisdom. Shopkeepers reported' on Saturday a phenomenal —and, as it turned out, quite unnecessary-T-demand for soap and powder. Apparently, those who took part in the rush refused to accept assurances by manufacturers and retailers that there were ample stocks to supply all normal require, ments for a very long time, and, as far as could be foreseen, there was no prospective shortage. They preferred to listen to rumour and make sure that, no matter who else went without, they were assured of sufficient, and even more than sufficient, supplies. They have discovered now that Dame Rumour has not reformed and is still as great a stranger to the .truth as ever she was, That is one side of the picture. There is another. Those who have acted with restraint by refusing to participate in rush buying may have been placed at a disadvantage when compared with those who have chosen to act selfishly" In "times of stress there is a special duty on the public to show consideration to others, to exercise moderation, and, above all, not to listen to rumour.