PRODUCTION DISCUSSED

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 7, Issue 85, 27 June 1944, Page 5

PRODUCTION DISCUSSED

VISIT OF HON. R. ROBERTS

GOVERNMENT INTEREST ASSURED

The Hon, R. Roberts Minister -of Agriculture, met deputations in. the County Chambers on Friday night Accompanying him were 1 Messrs Sullivan and Doidge M.P's. Mr W. R. Boon presided. The subject of ielief for settlers -suffering through flood damage was presented by Mr I. B. Gow, chairman of. that, committee, and Mr W. A. McCracken, chairman of the maize committee outlined the growers problem. Mr H. Brown led a deputation on drainage matters. The Minister gave an attentive hearing to all and intimated his intention to review the presentations •on his return to Wellington. Following these discussions, Mr Roberts who is also Minister of Production, met the District Council. He reviewed the overseas food positiony together with the. support New Zealand was giving in the exportation of primary products. All dairy farm produce was of first importance and the Government was endeavouring to see that the necessary, labour and fertiliser would be made • available to ensure the new season would be a responsive one in yield. The Minister commended the district •on its wililngness to support the Manpower Officer in the absorption of returned men. About a hundred applications have been made to cmploy and no difficulty was anticipated to prevent satisfactory place--ments. Fertiliser Position In the matter of fertiliser, the ■stock position has been: made easier by recent importations, but it was still necessary to be cautious in the •distribution, so that it can be put where maximum results will accrue. Applications are now being received for the extra- cow basis distribution, so farmers should not overlook the closing day of Friday first the 30th instant, if. they,wish to participate. ' The fertiliser appeals made on hardship grounds last April have now been finalised and appellants will be advised within a day or two of the success or otherwise of their appeals. Gumboot Shortage Mr Roberts surveyed the gumboot situation; mentioning that every effort was being, made to overcome the. shortage; certain anomalies had been brought to his notice and steps would be taken to rectify them. Negotiations were under way at present to provide for additional importations. The Minister acknowledged the value of the fbluntary service given by district councillors, he said, much invisible work was rendered which was of material help in the operations of the many regulations now tci be complied with. Members could look forward to additional work being passed on to them and for their past, service lie was grateful'.