HIGH SHEEP PRICES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26849, 13 August 1948, Page 4

HIGH SHEEP PRICES

BUTCHERS ADVISED TO REDUCE SALES P.A. TIMARU, Aug. 12. Because of'the high prices ruling for fat wethers and ewes at Canterbury stock sales this week, the executive of the South Canterbury Master Butchers’ Association is recommending to its members that they reduce mutton sales to the public as from Monday by 50 per cent. The president of the association, Mr J. A. McDonald, said the decision was forced on the butchers. The controlled retail price of mutton meant a loss on every carcass. At the Temuka sale 'this week prime wethers made up to £5 4s and ewes £4 4s. After £4 4s butchers had no option but to reduce sales, he said. We must either sell at a loss or defy the Price Tribunal and risk prosecution. In the meantime we are withholding definite action until the findings of the Fresh Meat Supplies’ Commission are released. We are not looking for increased prices, which must increase the cost of living, but the present position is serious for the trade. With the rising prices, butchers have to pay up to £SO more for stock from week to week,” he added.