CITY AFFAIRS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 16 June 1932, Page 12

CITY AFFAIRS

(To the Editor! Sir, —Now that Council affairs and the tobacco factory are in the limelight one ponders somewhat over the administration of our city affairs. What about someone telling the story of the Council’s oil contracts over the past live years and publishing the tenders received, and also the contract accepted. And why in one year it was deemed necessary, after a tender had been accepted, to call for a fresh contract for the electricity department. Also is there not a story to be told concerning the bus stand that certain people tried so hard to have located in Trafalgar street. We have the story concerning the loans and the gas and electric light, yet to be told. Evidently a story requires to be told as to why the councillors are so diffident in Hie matter of salary reductions. Perhaps the high price of bread is a factor in their deliberations, or is his Worship the Mayor still waiting for the guidance asked for by him at the recent welcome to an incoming minister of religion. The public, of Nelson know that your paper is always available to furnish that space that may enlighten ratepayers as to the position.—l am, etc., ARABIAN NIGHTS. Nelson, 15th June. (To the Editor) Sir, —It is pleasing to note that some citizens are interested in the price oE bread, gas, electric light, etc. I distinctly remember the Hon. Mr Cobbo and other members of Cabinet stating that any attempt at profiteering would be dealt with by the Government, and that prices of commodities would bo closely watched. Well, sir, what is wrong with placing the whole position of bread and municipal affairs before the Government? Is the Board of Trade non existent? What of our member, Mr Atrnore? Is it not his duty to bring such matters under the notice of the authori-. Lies ? I The sellers of goods have plenty of. organisations to protect their interests, hut what about a “payers” or a “consumers" organisation? Look at the re- 1 suits achieved by the Associated Banks, Chambers of Commerce, etc. But. if the, poor consumer dares to organise he is termed a. “Bolshie.” Mr Griffin exploded the bubble in regard to cheap gas. j I hope this letter will come under the! notice of the member for the district, | and that he will endeavour to move the ' authorities in the matter of bread prices, and also draw the attention of lhe Government to the fact that the local City Council have only reduced the salaries and wages of its employees by 5 per cent., and that the price of gas and electric light is far too high. Wage reduction is a factor •in reducing costs, and other concerns have had to' make Lhis sacrifice, so why not, clir Council employees?—T am, etc., CONSUMER. Nelson, 16th June. I