FOOD FOR EAST ASIA

Grey River Argus, 17 February 1945, Page 3

FOOD FOR EAST ASIA

U.N.R.R.A. Conference N.Z.’s PART DISCUSSED. (Rec. 10.30). SYDNEY, February IG. The large-scale development of the Australian and New Zealand fishing industries to supply the needs of East Asia’s teeming millions as their countries are liberated is visualised by the [conference of the Far Eastern Comimittee of the U.N.R.R.A. To-day’s [session of the conference, which is being held in camera, has been concerned principally with the problem of feeding these peoples. The technical sub-committee on agriculture reported that as the Allies had no rieo surpluses to export, prompt measures should be taken to make available alternative cereals, such as wheat and maize, as well as tapioca and sweet potatoes. Also required from other countries would be fish, meat, sugar, [vegetable oils, canned or dried fruit, land vegetables (required in relatively small quantities to balance diets), and dried and canned milk (for mothers, infants, and invalids). The Committee recommended that high prior'ly b e given to the provision of adequate supplies of simple agricultural implements and hand tools, or materials for their manufacture. The only country asking for expert personnel (such as doctors, dentists, engineers, and agriculturists) was China, and it was stated that Australia and New Zealand could be regarded as likely sources. It has also been suggested that Australia might supply wild water buffalo stock from northern territorv to offset the grave shortage of these animals in liberated areas. Water buffalo are used extensively, in the East for ploughing and in some areas as milking stock. CHIEF U.S. DELEGATE ARRIVES. (Rec. 10.30). SYDNEY, February 16. Mr Abbot Low Moffat, chief A.meriea'n delegate to the U.N.R.R.A. conference at Pals!one, who could not be traced when the conference opened, has arrived. He was wearing soiled jungle greens, having Jost -ill his luggage, and even his spectacles on route. Looking tired but cheerful Mr Moffat said he had had many adventures on the way Io Australia, but the story could not yet be told. The aircraft by which he crossed the Pacific had encountered heavy storms. Fellow delegates have combined resources to equip Mr, Moffat with a substitute wardrobe. Th e only absent delegate ,from the conference now is Senor Rotor (Philippines), who, it is understood, did not leave the Philippines.