Wool Research

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 68, 13 December 1933, Page 11

Wool Research

Sir, —I read with much interest in your excellent journal Mr. B. J’arkinson’s remarks regarding wool research. The statements were all the more interesting coming from one with such undisputed knowledge of and position in the wool trade of Bradford. Mr. Parkinson spoke in kjndly fashion of the excellent quality of this season’s clip and did not unduly enlarge on faulty wools, but anyone with a knowledge of New Zealand crossbreds knows, unfortunately, the grievous faults that are extant in many lots, faults due not to pasturage, but to errors in crossing and breeding and indifference and carelessness in selection. I pass ovey the probable laek of knowledge. . Mr.' Parkinson referred to research work that is taking place in Bradford and has told us that this is paid for by means of a levy of so much per pack or per bale. Some time ago it •was proposed to form a wool board in New Zealand, and, further, tx> levy a modest threepence per bale in order to pay charges. From letters that appeared from time to time and speeches made at farmers’ meetings, the scheme did not find favour because some thought the chief benefit would accrue to breeders. I am known to hundreds of farmers in the Wellington, Wairarapa and Main Trunk districts, and most of them know I have their interests solely at heart. Now that such an undoubted authority as Mr. Parkinson has spoken, I urge them to take his advice and do something to improve their wools at the growing end. Much can be done by research work regarding selection,, heredity and relativity, sheep for different districts and localities, but I will not enlarge on my ideas in this direction as it would take up too much of your valuable space. I do not for one moment suggest any alteration in the present method of selling. The splendid organisation built up by the woolbrokers of New Zealand is all sufficient, and the sale by public auction of all lots to the world’s highest bidder cannot be surpassed. The suggestion that the scheme will benefit the breeder more than anyone else is. hardly worthy of consideration. Even if a research scheme does benefit a few' more, directly than others, what does it .matter as long as the desired end is achieved—namely, an improvement in the staple product? If there is any objection, why not levy ail breeders who have flocks in the stud book an extra shilling per bale the first year, the extra levy to form the nucleus of a fund for the purpose. It would be interesting to know what the breeder® think of the idea. I feel sure South Island woolgrowers would cheerfully join in the scheme if the matter were properly presented to them —after all, the whole subject should be one of intense national interest.—l am, etc., R. G. ANDERSON, Late Chairman Wellington Woolbrokers ’Association Wellington, December 10.