Running out

Once upon a time, many many moons ago, there was a sugar shortage. And, for years thereafter, I always made sure that I had an extra bag or two hidden at the back of the cupboard. (I still do, as it happens.)

The next shortage - after the current shortage of petrol - will be rice. The Independent reports:

Major American food stores have begun rationing sales of rice to prevent stockpiling by customers who are worried by the soaring price of staple foods.
The global price of rice has risen 68 per cent since the start of 2008 and, in some American shops, has recently doubled.
There was little evidence of panic-buying by individuals but restaurants and small shopkeepers were stacking up on supplies in case costs rose further.
In response to what it called "recent supply and demand trends", Wal-Mart's cash-and-carry division Sam's Club is limiting customers to four 9kg bags each to prevent a run on stock.

How long before the UK goes rice-crazy? As always, the advice from the authorities will be "Don't panic!" See today's Scotsman:

The AA, Britain's largest motoring organisation, said motorists should not panic. Paul Watters, the AA's head of public affairs, said: "I don't suppose this news has come as a massive surprise as it has been quite a public airing of the issues and the positions of both sides were quite strong in terms of taking a hard line. There still is no reason for people to panic. We have to put our trust in the petroleum industry to keep Scotland's pumps filled."

IMHO, panicking is the most rational thing to do in these circumstances. Of course the authorities would prefer us to carry on as normal but if that means running out of petrol or rice when we need it ...

But it is all comfortably reminiscent of the good old days.