COLONIAL PRODUCE.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CV, Issue 12428, 18 February 1901, Page 6

COLONIAL PRODUCE.

THE HOME MARKET. ; [Per Press Association.] WELLINGTON, Feb. 15. In his monthly report to the Department of Agriculture, dated London, Jan. 11, Mr Cameron, Produce Commissioner in' England, states that prices had ruled firmly for choicest butters for the previous six weeks at 109 sto 102 s. During the previous few days an even better feeling had been displayed by agents, and Is advance had been made, on these quotations, which were 10s per cwt higher than at this time last year. Prom careful inquiry, he found that the -bulk of the New Zealand factory butters had so far this season been rated as "choicest," and consequently had realised the above quotations. He had only had two complaints made to him regarding the quality of butter. Both were of slight "fishiness." The cheese market, lie said, has not been at all bright lately. Prices are too high for a brisk business. Purchases have been madein the colony, this season at such high prices that holders are. Unable to sell at a. profit, and they are unprepared to meet buyers who would purchase if prices were reduced to. say, 525. Such prices as 54s to 55s per cwt are being held for, and little business is doing. Mr Cameron states that he believes holders will have to meet buyers. Frozen meat, according to the Commissioner, has made some improvement. Quotations show, if anything, that the slight doubt felt as to the future a short time ago, has been got over, and. that values have recovered their former level. Stocks of mutton are, of course, very short and in few hands. Lamb, considering the time of year, has been selling well, being kept up by the high rates foi mutton. Beef, while not higher, has recovered, its firmness.. ; Canterbury mutton has ruled from 4|d to 5d per lb; other brands about -|d per lb less. Lamb realised about 6d; beef, hinds 4d, fores 3£d.