NO EFFECT IN NEW ZEALAND.

Otago Witness, Issue 2892, 18 August 1909, Page 24

NO EFFECT IN NEW ZEALAND.

AUCKLAND, August 10. The prevalence of blight in the potato ciops in Tasmania is not likely, according to the result of inquiries made to^ day to effect the price of the indispensable tuber so far as New Zealand is con-* cerncd. During the three previous eeasona a large quantity of Tasmanian potatoes found their way to Auckland, but during the present season only some 2000 sacks hjave been imported from that State 1 .- The southern crop has been a heavy one. this year, and has enabled the northern: narket to be kept well supplied, On#-

Of the principal dealers states that the southern supplies will be quite sufficient to xaeet the requirements jf northern consumers until the new crop is available.

ME KIRK'S SERVICES SECURED. WELLINGTON, August 10.

Mr T. W. Kirk, Government Biologist, will leave for Tasmania to-morrow to give expert advice to the Government of that State concerning the outbreak of potato blight there.

PRECAUTIONS IN NEW ZEALAND. (Fsok Oxjb Own CobbespoitoentJ WELLINGTON, August 12. Mr Buxton, M.P., seams to be unaware

of the facts regarding the importation of potatoes. For some time past the importations of potatoes attacked by any of the following diseases have been prohibited : — • F.el worm, potato blackleg, potato bacTeriosis, potato wet rot, potato dry rot, Irish, blight, potato moss, aud early blight. Regulations to this effect were gazetted on February 27, 1908, and ever since that time potatoes imported into New Zealand are examined. If found to be diseased they are destroyed or not allowed to be landed in New Zealand.

A 'Wellington telegram states that the Cabinet has decided to make representations to the Commonwealth Government ■with a view to having the embargo on New Zealand potatoes removed ■ under certain conditions.