RABBIT BOARD CONTROL

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29250, 7 July 1960, Page 15

RABBIT BOARD CONTROL

Extension Being Considered

(From Our Parliamentary Reporter) WELLINGTON, July 6. . The possibility of extending rabbit board control over the area between the Ashley and Rakaia rivers is being considered by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr Skinner) and it is expected that a decision will be made within a fortnight. This is one of the few areas on the east coast of the South -Island outside board control. Last year, farmers area voted against the formation of three new boards covering the territory. Recently Mr Skinner visited the district and said the matter would have to be considered by the Government.

During his visit to the area, Mr SkinneT heard the representations of those to favour of rabbit board control and, at the time, said he had seen' areas wirere there was substantial infestation. Since then’ he has received a deputation introduced by Mr W. .H. Gillespie (Opposition, Hurunui) of those against board control. Mr Skinner has the power to extend, board control over the area it it is felt that such action would halt infestation apd prevent the rabbits now growing in the area from reinfesting other lands which have been cleared.

It is computed that’ the rates involved would amount to about £4 10s yearly on an average farm property.