The Ypsilanti Daily Press

Coffee Ration Seen as Likely

Washington, Apr. 28-INS-The War Production Board's order cutting coffee deliveries 25 per cent was looked upon today as indication of a ration program. While the order did not touch retailers, the WPB instructed wholesalers to pass the cuts on to customers "as equitably as possible". It was explained by the WPB that the move was taken to conserve supplies now on hand for the armed forces and civilian population and to make the present supplies go as far as possible. The war has created uncertainty about future supplies, since merchant ships that normally transport coffee are needed to transport "war materials", the WPB said. "As a result of the 25 per cent cut in coffee deliveries the present supply will last for several months even if all imports were suspended." Government officials are said to be working out a rationing program for coffee and possibly tea.