THE RABBIT PEST.

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 12869, 22 September 1904, Page 2

THE RABBIT PEST.

The Minister for Lands has informed a deputation from Hawke’s Bay that there would bo no change in tile law with regard to rabbits this session. This, \vc take it, is a matter for regret, for there is no question affecting the pastoral industry which calls for more prompt and energetic action than that of the destruction of the rabbit. It is a pity that there should be rival schemes before the House. Both parties, wo take it, are agreed that the present system is ineffective, and quite insufficient to check tile inroads of the pest. Both parties arc aiming at something that should be effective. We can only regret that there should not be more unanimity on the subject. Sir William Russell's bill was probably introduced because he thought that it was the simplest change, and the one most likely to pass the House. If passed, the old system, which existed until a couple of years ago, would be reintroduced. It was an effective system, we understand, but it was open to the objection that some inspectors did not use their powers quite fairly. That, at all events, is the allegation of those who object to the system. The Board of Trustees appear to attach some weight to it, for they have approved a measure which provides that the board shall undertake the destruction oi rabbits, levying a rate on the sheep farmers of the district.

IMs^ur^ijs. Ts interesting himself m the latter proposal. Wo should have thought that small farming was likely to interfere with the spread of rabbits, and that the old system would be more favourable to them. But, probably, they consider that the question is one for the community generally, and that all should bear the cost in proportion to their property interest. That all are interested is no doubt true. The great thing is, however, to get something done, and this, thanks to the Ministry, will be postponed for another year at least. In the meantime, we may hope that farmers will unite on one or other scheme, and promote a local bill which will have some chance of passing.