AUSTRALIAN.

Hokitika Guardian, 9 June 1922, Page 1

AUSTRALIAN.

AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION NAURU PHOSPHATES. SYDNEY, June 8. It is stated that Australian farmers have saved over two millions sterling as a result of the Nauru agreement. According to information from Mi Hughes to Mr Man-, inlthe House of Representatives, larger supplies of superphosphates at cheaper rates will be available next season. Mr Marr stated the total output during 1921 from Nauru and Ocean Islands was 394,000 tons, which was fifty five thousand more than the Pacific Company’s best year, 1913. Though entitled to only forty two per cont, Australia had taken sixty five per cent, since tlie agreement was made. Sufficient phosphates remained to supply the requirements for the next two hundred years.

STABLINGS ON TELEGRAPH LINKS MELBOURNE, June 8.

Laird, manager of the telegraphs in Sydney, ventilating operators grievances in a claim for higher wages, said at times they were compelled to workovertime, as a result of telegraphic communication being hcl'l up by hundreds of thousands of starlings resting on (lie wires, till they touched, rendering it necessary to send gangs to sliooi the birds.

BUBONIC PLAGUE. SYDNEY. June 8

The steamer Southgate from Calcutta is reported to have a case of plague aboard. She landed tho patient at Thursday Island.

GERMAN TRADE. SYDNEY. June 8

Though officially the embargo against German trade does not expire in Australia till August 1, yet with tho departure of the Commonwealth steamer. Port Curtis from Hamburg to-day direct trade between the two countries ibeing actually resumed after a lapse of eight years. Her departure has been arranged so as the vessel will reach Australia shortly after the embargo lapses.

It is reported that other shipping lines now intend to enter the German trade, and it is anticipated that strong German competition will regain its prewar footing.