CATTLE & COAL

Grey River Argus, 12 October 1944, Page 3

CATTLE & COAL

PRICE QUESTIONS. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL COMMENTS. P.A. WELLINGTON, October 11. A matter of considerable interest to farmers, and another of interest to coal mine owners, were raised, in the Legislative Council, during its debate on the Imprest Supply Bill today. Hon. W. Grounds (Auckland) pointed out that fat stock prices had been much higher at the recent sales than was the case last year, when prices were more or less determined before the sales began. It appeared that the dealers were operating with a knowledge that was not available to the farmers. He suggested that it would be desirable if the Goverhrfient gave an early indication of what the price level is going to be. Hon. A. McLagan said he agreed that everything possible should be done to prevent speculators from operating, and he promised to look into the matter.

The other matter wa's raised by Hon. O. Bishop (Wellington), who referred to Mr Nash’s statement that when the American price for goods was excessive for New Zealand economy, a lower price was asked by the Ministry, of Supply, and said that this was not supported bv the treatment received by the coal mine owners. Wire rone which, before the war, cost £BO a' ton had increased to £247 a ton, and mine owners could not recoup themselves by increased prices for coal. Mr McLagan said that he knew the price of wire rope had increased considerably, and that, as the price of coal was stabilised, the increase must react on the owners. He promised to take the matter up with the Government. The Bill was passed.