THE FLAX GRUB.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 1507, 8 February 1916, Page 2

THE FLAX GRUB.

GOVERNMENT TAKES ACTION. A NEW ENTOMOLOGIST. In a letter to Mr W. H. Field, M.P., the Minister for Agriculture (Hon. W. D. S. MacDonald) says:—“With reference to the deputation which waited upon me on November 24th in regard to the damage caused by grubs to Phormium plants and the consequent deterioration ot the hemp produced, I have the honour to inform you that the Department has been fortunate in securing the services of a highly-qualified entomologist who will devote his time more 01 less exclusively for a year or more as may be found necessary to a thorough study of the problem arising out of the ravages or the pest referred to. The man referred to is Mr David Miller, and be is taking up his duties at once under the Biological Section of the Department. He will visit the principal Phormium fields as early as possible, and pursue his investigations forthwith. The question of whether the hemp millers or the owners of Phormium fields, or either of them, will be called upon to contribute to the cost ol the work will be considered when the expense involves is definitely known. L trust that the result of this arrangement will be the devising of practical measures for the control of the pest."