FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE

Taranaki Daily News, 3 December 1926, Page 7

FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE

DANGER FROM STRAW PACKING. OBLIGATIONS OF IMPORTERS. The necessity of burning all straw and any other material used as packing for goods imported from overseas to prevent the introduction of foot and mouth disease was emphasised in a circular from the Department of Agriculture considered by the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce last night. After discussion it was decided to draw the attention of the Agricultural Department to the need for greater supervision and to mention the fact that packing was not being destroyed in many instances. As far as importers in New Plymouth were concerned, the chairman (Mr. 8. F. i Burgess) said that notices were posted up in all the buildings. Packing from England and other countries was burnt. He thofight New Plymouth did very well in this respect. Several members mentioned instances where the packing had not been destroyed. Mr. 8. Vickers suggested that the borough inspector should be approached on the subject. The Farmers’ Union had considered the matter, and representations had been made to the Minister about 18 months ago. Mr. Burgess: We have had inspectors coming round for the past 18 months.

Mr. Vickers said there-was no doubt that a good deal of rubbish was not being burntj or -that infection could come that way. Mr. Burgess indicated that he would interview the Department of Agriculture and suggest closer inspection. .