RABBIT MENACE

Press, Volume LXXXVI, Issue 26119, 23 May 1950, Page 4

RABBIT MENACE

CABINET ANNOUNCES POLICY SUBSIDY AND GRANTS TO CONTINUE From Our Own Reporter WELLINGTON, May 22. The Government’s policy for dealing with the rabbit menace in the South Island was announced by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr K. J. Holyoake) to-night. The Minister recently paid, a long visit to the South Island to study destruction by rabbits. On his return he reported to the Cabinet, which spent some time last week and again this afternoon discussing his report. The Government has now decided to continue the £ for £ subsidy on rates collected by rabbit boards. In addition. it will make a total grant to boards of an amount at least equal to that provided last financial year • Mr Holyoake said that the Government had been in close consultations with the Rabbit Destruction Council on the question of rabbit control. The Cabinet had decided to continue the "killer” policy, which had been the main plank in the operations of the council and the rabbit boards. “The Government is most appreciative of the excellent work which has been carried out by the council and the boards,” said the Minister. “It is determined to support their activities to rid the Dominion of one of its most serious pests. I sincerely trust that iaimers and boards in badly infested areas will recognise the necessity tor adequate rating, which in conjunction with the subsidies and grants should ensure that the work of rabbit destruction will be carried out efficiently.”

Mr Holyoake added that the 20 per cent, levy on rabbitskins would not be increased in the meantime.