FARMERS’ ANXIETY

Hokitika Guardian, 24 June 1932, Page 5

FARMERS’ ANXIETY

DISEASE IN SHEEP PUBLIC INSTRUCTION URGED. (Per Press Association — Copyright.) WELLINGTON, June 23. 1 lie necessity for instructing tile public concerning the dangers of foot and mouth disease was urged unon the Minister of Agriculture by a deputation .rom the Romney Marsh Sheep Breeder.s’ Association, which waited on him to-day. In replying to the representations made, the Minister agreed that a series of lectures on this question should he broadcast by Mr J. Lybiis-, Director of the Live Stock Division of the Department of Agriculture.

The deputation was Introduced by Mr J. Linklater, M.P. Mr Q. Donald expressed the opinion that there was no danger from the importation of live stock. He suggested that it would be a wise course to arrange for _ a series of lectures on the subject. New live stock was required in the Dominion. The issue should be tackled

Mr J. E. Hewitt said he did not con. sicler it advisable to import live stock into the Dominion.

Mr H. W. Matthews agreed with Mr Hewitt, but said, that there were certain breeds of cattle hi the Dominion needing a change. It was necessary it should be brought about. Mr Lyons said America and Canada had opened their doors to live stock from infested countries, ns they wore not afraid of foot and mouth disease. He was not afraid of it himself. If foot and mouth disease were introduced into this country, it would not be through the animal itself, but through, contact of the animal with infection.

The Minister promised to giv6 full consideration to the representations, and to arrange for a broadcast of lectures by Mr Lyons. 1