THE GOVERNMENT’S PAPER BILL.
The high cost of paper is hampering the work of the United States government seriously. Publications are being cut down and plans are under way to discontinue those of minor importance. Officials in all departments put into effect today orders to conserve paper. A principal step is use of smaller type in printing.
The United States government annually places the largest individual contract made in this country for paper. When paper required for present fiscal year is ready for delivery, general purchasing agents have been warned that mills will not be able to meet a demand equally as great next year, even at enormous increase in price.
Dr. O. H. Briggs, head of government general supply division says: “Latest reports show a crisis in the paper industry, and retrenchment all along the line will be enforced. Government contract price for fine grades of typewriting paper last year was 12 cents a pound. Today we should have to pay 20 cents. We are using 100 different kinds of paper. Since the war the price has jumped about 100% and will continue to soar.”
Government printing demands about 15 carloads daily and paper for its use alone has amounted to more than $1,000,000 a year. Printing paper for this year’s work costs 4½ cents, but contracts for future supplies will show 100% increase or more in price.