“A LITTLE EASIER.”

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12753, 24 September 1919, Page 7

“A LITTLE EASIER.”

iboal position improving DEMAND DEGREASES SLIGHTLY. there has not been any in the supplies of coal received by iwrehants in Christchurch, the position is a little easier, owing to the demand frvun householders having decreased slightly. An increase in the amount of coal brought to Lyttelton has actually taken place, but the whole ef this increase’ has gene to the Railway Department, which has been building up supplies during the curtailed services. The position in Christchurch at the present time, as far as the householders are concerned, is that it is easier for them to get supplies, because, owing to _tho warmer weather, less coal is required for heating purposes and in coneequence more is available for ordinary domestic purposes. The majority of the retailers have been able to catch up on their orders, with the result that the public axe not kept waiting so Tons for their coal supplies as they were a few weeks ago. Idle “ go-slow” policy adopted by the miners has not materially reduced the amount of coal available in Christchurch. but it has had the effect of increasing the price charged. Many of thc_ wholesalers have already increased their prices and a general rise of from 3d to 6d a bag will be made on practically all classes of coal. The Retail Coal Merchants’ Association has the matter under consideration and an amended price-list will shortly be published. A peculiar position has arisen in connection with the fixing of retail prices and the recently announced decision of the wholesale dealers to cut off supplies from retailers who charged customen; in excess of these prices. Several instances wer6 brought to the notice of the wholesalers of retailers continuing to exploit the public, hut it was found on going into the matter ; tnat nothing could be done. According to the terms of the Commercial Trusts Act it is illegal for wholesale dealers to cut off supplies from retailers. It seems that under the present conditions, no restrictions on prices can be imposed on retailers, and unless action »s taken by the Board of Trade, the public can ofily protect themselves from exploitation by refusing to purchase coal from a dealer if an excessive price is demanded. The prices fixed by the Retail Coal Merchants’ Association were considered to allow a fair margin of profit to all dealers, and when higher prices are demanded, the retailer is deliberately exploiting his customers. An addition of from 3d to 6d a‘ bag on the prices published, should, however, be allowed to the retailers owing to the effect of tbe “ go-slow” policy." Regarding future supplies of coal, the position is regarded as uncertain, but " normal output is soon resumed there should be ample coal for all purposes. Owing, however, to increased expenses involved a reduction in prices is hardly expected for a considerable tune.