Foot-And-Mouth Scare

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31678, 14 May 1968, Page 16

Foot-And-Mouth Scare

Sir,—Some of your correspondents appear to have a very limited understanding of the seriousness of a possible outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease In this country. It is surely some time since an event evoked such loud, if ill-informed, comment, some of it, regrettably, from people who should be less Ignorant than they prove themselves to be. From the published comments of authorities abroad, it is evident that the prompt and drastic action taken by Dr Jamiesnn and his staff has established New Zealand’s integrity in her overseas markets, a factor which cannot fail to benefit not only the farmer at Warkworth and all primary producers in this country, but every New Zealander—even the critics.—Yours, ete., (Mrs) B. HUNTER. May 13, 1968. Ashburton Plantation Sir,—Long before the recent storm the Ashburton County Council was engaged in arranging timber for sale from plantations unde? its jurisdiction. Many of these plantations have already been clear-felled, including some apparently set aside originally to remain in trees, I ques-' tion whether the council had any right to destroy these. Now, it seems, a further 584 acres of shelter are to be removed completely. Yet these plantation blocks were

planted many years ago: to help prevent wind damage to the county crop* and storm losses in lambs. To remove the shelter simply asks for trouble.—Yours, April 30, 1968. (Tfie Ashburton County Clerk (Mr J. H. Burns) replies: "Over tiie years the council has planted some 4000 acres of trees and as they reach maturity they will be sold. Had it been the intention. to plant for shelter only, this area would have been considerably reduced. 'Vulcan' can be assured that present council policy is to replant where planting conditions are favourable.”]