FARM FERTILISER

Hokitika Guardian, 2 October 1931, Page 8

FARM FERTILISER

GOVERNMENT ACTION

WELLINGTON, September 29

In view of the influence exercised on New Zealand’s productive capacity by the application of fertilisers, the new Minister of Agriculture, the Hon. D. Jones, is giving serious consideration to the question of ensuring adequate supplies of manures to farmers. It is well known that fertiliser sales in the North Island alone this year hare shown a substantial decrease, and those in a position to judge .predict that unless some action is taken to check this downward movement, dairy production in succeeding seasons will he disastrously affected.

A deputation representing fertiliser companies interviewed the Prime Minister and the Minister of Agriculture this morning, proceedings being in camera. It is understood, however, that a scheme was submitted to the Government which involved the payment of a State subsidy sufficient to enable the companies teo make supplies available tO' the farmer at a. reduction of about 25 per cent.-on present prices. It is reported also that the Department of Agriculture has prepared proposes designed to meet the position. The whole question is under Cabinet consideration, and before long definite developments of interest to primary producers may be expected.

When approached T>y the representative of the “Times 7 ’ to-day Mr Jones was not prepared to discuss the subject beyond indicating that he. had the question well in band..