N.Z. FLAX INDUSTRY.

Hokitika Guardian, 4 March 1924, Page 4

N.Z. FLAX INDUSTRY.

SCIEXTTFIC INVESTIGATIONS. [by ti-xkghai'ji—ri-.K muss association.] PALMERSTON N„ Feb. 20. In recent years the New Zealand Flaxmillers’ Association has carried out experiments towards improvements of the flax plant, also towards eliminating Yellow Leaf disease, which was threatening the industry. The cost entailed was borne by the millers, aided in a small measure by the Government. The latter’s contribution decreased to such an extent that the association found if impossible to continue the work. Later the association was advised by the Department cf Agriculture that if was prepared to further the scheme, but meantime work ceased. The millers, however, expressed their preparedness to nave the grading charge increased by six pence per ton provided flic money collected was devoted to improving tinflux plant by selection and breeding.

At. yesterday’s meeting of the association a letter was received from the Director-General ol Agriculture advising that a general investigation had been made, particularly from the point of view of endeavouring to ascertain to what extent tho new method of side-cutting operated in improving the vigour and yield of flax plants, also overcoming Yellow Leaf disease. ILo information forthcoming had revealed undoubted beneficial results. It was proposed lo keep the matter under further observation and the association was asked on what lines the work should be carried out.

It- was decided that a letter should lie sent to the Director-General asking the Department- to give a bonus to millers who adopt the side-cutting method for the first three years. Tho Department also is to be asked for q bonus on heino production from cultivated flax, with tho object of encouraging the planting of flax roots and other experimental work. A letter was received from Air Wall LMartinhorough) urging that the Government be requested to appoint an instructor to visit the various mills with a view to encouraging the scientific side of the industry.

Jt was decided to interview the Director of the local Technical School with the object of getting a class formed for the purpose of educating men for high appointments in the industry.

Mr Seifert, president of the Flaxmillers’ Association, informed a “Standard” reporter that Yellow Leaf disease was rapidly dying out.