SHORT IN WEIGHT.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 223, 20 September 1935, Page 5

SHORT IN WEIGHT.

POTATO COMPLAINT.

CONDITION OF SHIPMENTS. REPLY FROM CANTERBURY. (Hy Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) CHRIST CHURCH, this day. Complaints of the state of potato consignments from the South to the Auckland market are contained in a letter which has been received here from the Auckland firm, Perkins and Sons, Limited. The chief points were that Dakotas were not properly packed, and that numerous samples were small and weedy; that tubers were injured by

mechanical diggers; that some were affected by corky seal); and that there was too much short weight. While Christcliurcli merchants agree that there is some ground for complaint, they say that the position was overstated. Potatoes go direct from the grower to the ship's side, where they are inspected by officers appointed by the Grain and Produce Association. It sometimes happens, however, that lots rejected by the inspectors are sent on consignment to the North Island by the growers. There was a good deal of second growth in Canterbury crops last season owing to the dry summer, and some crops were not in such good condition as usual. Dakotas were particularly affected. It is also admitted that dam-| age is done by mechanical diggers, but merchants do' not sec how it could be j overcome. I What the Auckland firm referred t,o as corky scab is known here as- eelworm. It is common in dry weather, and in light or sandy soil.