FARMERS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 249, 30 March 1915, Page 7

FARMERS.

HIGH PRICES ASSURED.

Wellington, March 29, The Department of Agriculture has already brought under the notice of farmers the effect of the war on the supply of wheat and oats, and has urged the desirableness of increasing as largely as possible the area under these crops. It is now in receipt of information as to the market prospects for barlev, which will be of interest to growers" in NewZealand. In a review of the situation a British firm of importers points out that the war has cut off the supplies of barley usually received from European countries. Even If the war were to terminate before the next European harvest it is considered bv those in" the trade best able to judge that the supplies next year will be short. Apart from the areas under military occupation, the drainage of men from'all combatant countries is bound to very seriously affect the area grown. If hostilities are continued, and the Dardanelles remain closed, the position will be more serious still. During November and Deccm'jer prices of all classes or barley advanced considerably on the British market, the rise being as much as 5s per quarter in two months. Importers are look'ng anxiously for other sources of supply and would be pleased to get into touch with firms in countries in a position to export. The opinion is very definitely expres.-iel that New Zealand* growers' of barley would find it extremely profitable to grow larger areas.

In bringing the matter under their notice, the Department desires to mcnt'on that if later New Zealand is in a position to export, information as to the names of British firms desiring of obtaining supplies can be given to inquirers. Application should) be made to the Director of Fields Division, Department of Agriculture, Wellington.