THE BIG LINEN DEAL

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XLV, Issue 11857, 21 June 1919, Page 5

THE BIG LINEN DEAL

United Press Association —By Elec= trie Telegraph-Copyright. London, June 16.

Newspapers, criticising Martin’s linen deal says it is equivalent to the world supply for three years. It is pointed out that Government has not protected the public against possible profiteering, though Martin purchased below cost, involving the taxpayer in the loss of several millions. It will also, release an enormous supply of linen, which will adversely affect Belfast linen and Manchester cotton trades. Martin contends that the Belfast manufacturers insisted on carrying ont the war contracts for aeroplane linen, despite the armistice, hoping to repurchase the enormous surplus at a big profit. They offered the Government onlv thirty per cent of their contract price.