SHORTAGE OF HORSE-FEED

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 286, 22 August 1918, Page 4

SHORTAGE OF HORSE-FEED

POSITION CRITICAL.

An exceptional- shortage of horsc-fced prevails throughout Auckland, and the North Island generally, at the present time, says the "Herald." Grain and produce nicrchanls interviewed this \reok stated that existing stocks would probably last about a fortnight and no further supplies wore in sisht. All hay, oats, oven whenten 6traw, was being chaffed to eke out tho supply. The greatest difficulty was being experienced in obtaining feed from the Soutli Island,shipiping companies having declined to carry chaff owing- to the urgent demand for space. Apart from shipping difficulties, however, supplies wero also stated to bo very low in the south. Owing to tlo exceptionally cokl winter 'and recent snowfall, there had been an unprecedented amount of hand-feeding, which had created a position not anticipated a few months ago. "Prices to-day aro higher than at any previous period," said one. dealer, "and where we wero paying about £S a ton for feed in January, the prico is Mi now."

Another merchant explained that ever since the outbreak of war stocks of feed had gradually been diminishing. Heserves had been used up, and, owing partly to shortage of labour, cropping areas had been reduced. Consumption had thus been steadily overtaking production, and tho country had now been caught in an unprecedented shortage. Australia had a fair amount of chaff available, but difficulties in shipping were great. "Unless the Government steps in and relieves the position by requisitioning shipping space we shall come perilously near to a famine," stated a dealer. "This will not mean actual starvation for horses, for they can be turned out to grass,' but it'certainly would mean such a severe financial strain on their owners, as probably to resnlt in tho cessation of productive, works, with considerable loss and great inconvenience to the community."