The sharp incline in the price of the cereal, which is at the back of all the labour troubles in Shanghai, has been engaging the attention of the Chinese press which has lashed out at the Municipal and other authorities here, characterizing their stand as lethargic and accusing them of showing an entire unconcern in a problem vital to the Chinese population.
A Chinese economist recently suggested equality in distribution of the cereal as one solution to the problem which has become more acute with the shortage of rice offered for sale although it is reported that hoarders hold considerable stocks but refuse to unload their goods on the market, waiting for higher prices.
It has also been suggested that direct orders for large quantities of Tice be placed with Saigon and Rangoon to meet local requirements. It was suggested that the authorities of the Settlement and French Concession should. charter. vessels to transport the cereal owing to the transportation difficulties.
After the arrival of the rice, it was further suggested, the authorities concerned should distribute it among the shops to be sold in limited quantities which will ensure equality in distribution and remove all fears of a shortage.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.