THE COST OF LIVING.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVII, Issue 17375, 23 January 1920, Page 7

THE COST OF LIVING.

Sir,— one debarred through age from employment, and very seriously affected by the extreme cost of living, I would like to ask wliat tangible results have we got from the so-called Board of Trade. The Premier's attention has been called to a number of subjects. The reply generally is that the matter has been referred to the Board of Trade, but there it seems to end, Fully six months ago we were assured that standardised boots would be supplied. There is no such supply, and prices have increased. It is becoming a very serious matter. I do not know of a single line of domestic requirements that has not increased substantially in price, and how men with growing families make ends meet' is a puzzle to me. lam well aware that Labour troubles have roused increased cost, and that any increase in wages is met by passing it on to the consumer, and so the silly movement goes on. Ts lo Government must soon face the difficulty, and make a vigorous effort* to meet the case. Mr. Maesev has the opportunity to improve matters, and I feel that affairs are in good hands, and sincerely hope he wi succeed in selecting such colleagues as will support him in putting public interests in a safe and progressive state. Every effort should be made to reduce the pnee of all domestic requirements of necessary use, and make those who want luxuries pay handsomely for them. Old Hand.