DROUGHT IN ENGLAND

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 234, 28 June 1921, Page 5

DROUGHT IN ENGLAND

FRUIT AND FARM CROPS THREATENED LONDON’S WATER SUPPLY RUNNING SHORT t ' By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright London, June 25. The prclcnged drought threatens the farmfig industry with Catastrophe. According t.> the Ministry of Agriculture’s report, farm and garden crops everywhere are suffering intensely, and soma will certa’nly fail. Root crops are ruined past redemption. Hay will be light. Cereals may be partly saved if there is abundant rain without delay, but it is feared that most of the corn already is seriously damaged, and that tho straw must be short, while winter feed is likely to be scarce. The worst sufferers are the fruitgrowers. Autumn fruit is dropping from tho trees in immense quantities. Berries are small and unlikely now to improve. London’s watersupply is running short, and the capital is declared to be within measurable distance of a famine. The Chief Engineer says the position is serious and likely to become alarming. Already he is utilising the autumn reserves. The pressure in the mains has been reduced, and he may cut the supply at night time. The forecast points to drier conditions still. — Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.