Fertiliser Works

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30823, 7 August 1965, Page 14

Fertiliser Works

Sir, —Your points on the “folly of two fertiliser works in the same area” are soundly based and deserve the earnest consideration of every farmer likely to be affected by the establishment of a co-opera-tive works. However, you appear to give strong support to the principle of fertiliser manufacture being in the hands of city investors rather than in the hands of farmers. You have consistently supported the view (recently reinforced by the Agricultural Development Council) that primary production provides, and will continue to provide, the bulk of this country’s export earnings, and the foundation for growth of the economy. It is a fact that the relative infertility of our soils necessitates the application of fertilisers, particularly phosphates, to achieve full expression of their potential for increased production. Therefore fertilisers must be considered essential raw materials, the “farm gate” cost of which must be kept as low as possible to ensure adequate use.—Yours, etc., A. W. ROBINSON. Kurow, August 5, 1965.