MORE ABOUT FLOUR.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12083, 11 August 1917, Page 8

MORE ABOUT FLOUR.

AUCKLAND BAKERS IN DIFFICULTIES. [From Our Correspondent.] WELLINGTON, August 10. "No cheap flour in Auckland; Australian 30s dearer than local. Must have it for mixing. New Zealand wheat sofit and no strength." Tljis tvas a telegram from the president of tho Auckland Master Bakers' Association, read to Parliament by Mr Poole, who asked the Prime Minister what steps the Government was willing to take in regard io the importation of flour necessary for mixing and to supply bread at a reasonable figure. Mr Massey replied that within the last month southern millers had been complaining to the Government that they were .suffering severe competition from Australian flour, and they asked tho Government to rqduco the price of imported wheat. Within the last three days several mills in Canterbury had closed down. The matter was being inquired into by it-he Industries Committee, and at tho week-end Cabinet would consider the question. Jle was prepared to make suggestions to his colleagues, who would endeavour to do the right Exception might be taken to the statement that New Zealand wheat was soft. Mr Witty: It is harder this season than it has been for years. Mr Massey declared it-hat there was no reason to mix Australian wheat with New Zealand wheat to get the best (bread. ! Mr Witty :Is anything being done regarding tho wheat still held by farmers? Mr Massey: Not that I know of. Mr Witty: Well, it ought to bo.