FAT STOCK HIGHER

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21554, 27 July 1933, Page 10

FAT STOCK HIGHER

FURTHER RISES IN PRICE FIRST LAMB OF THE SEASON SHORT SUPPLY OF SHEEP The improvement in the market for fat stock has been well maintained and further sharp price advances were recorded at the weekly Westfield sale yesterday. There was another small yarding of fat sheep, which confirms the belief that there is a general shortage in the province. The first spring lamb appeared in the market, about two weeks ealier than last year. It was offered on account of Mr. 1. Wymcrs, of Glen brook, and sold for £2. Last year the first lamb, of about the same weight, .'501b., brought only 20s. The new season's lambs will not begin to appear in any quantity for some weeks yet, and a true comparison of values is not possible at the moment.. In the sheep market, wethers made up to 27s and ewes to 20s 3d, while two outstanding wethers sold at. 2Ds 6d each. These prices are 2s to 5s above last week's rates and are over 10s higher than values a few months ago. The brisk way in which the offerings changed hands looked like a return of fhe "good times." It is about throe years since farmers were talking of 25s and 30s for fat sheep. Very few ewes wore offered, duo to the close approach of the main lambing season, but more should be available shortly. Although the brighter prospects in the wool market may be influencing farmers to bold all the sheep possible, it is becoming more apparent each week that there is*not sufficient stock available in the Auckland province. This is the natural outcome of the heavy lamb and sheep killings for export in the past few years. The quantity available to the local trade, yesterday was hardly sufficient for requirements, and buyers were forced to raise their limits considerably. This will probably be reflected in an advance in retail prices. It is expected that if retail mutton prices are raised, the beef market will receive greater attention. Values for ox and cow beef were again firmer yesterday, due largely to a shortage of good light pud medium-weight cattle. It is believed there is plenty of beef available should the demand improve. Another feature of yesterday's salo was the spirited inquiry for calves, values for which rose by 10s and more a head. As is usual at the present time of the year, there was a short yarding, and buyers were unable to fill their requirements.