GOVERNMENTAL STOCKIMPORTING.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 11537, 23 November 1900, Page 4

GOVERNMENTAL STOCKIMPORTING.

We referred recently to the question of horse-breeding. It has since been stated that our Government is sending Mr. Gilruth, Government Bacteriologist and Veterinarian, _ to Britain, in order to select and import thoroughbred hunters and dairy bulls. We are not informed as to the precise intentions with which this step is being taken, and are, moreover, reluctant to criticise adversely any action which has for its purpo&e the development of our important pastoral industries. But. it must be obvious to all that unless necessitated by exceptional conditions, we run into great danger of gaining little and losing much by Governmental competition in private enterprises. As we stated, New Zealand has shown her ability to enter the markets of the world and to win therein the fullest recognition. If a permanent demand arises for a certain class of horse, that class of horse will be bred. So far from Governmental importations assisting in this, it might very well be that private importations of similar or better stork will be interfered with by such State action. For no importers can possibly compete against the Government, though our shrewd and experienced breeders may very easily excel the Government agent in selecting and distributing. The importing and travelling of superior stallions of all classes is becoming an important business throughout the country; moreover, it is extremely desirable that the agricultural community should learn for themselves the value of local co-operation to meet special local needs not sufficiently covered by private enterprise. This habit of depending on Government on any and every occasion is certainly the easiest thing to do ; but we have yet to learn that the result of it is the best. It clearly limits selection. It probably restricts importation. It certainly weakens self-reliance. That breeding should be encouraged we all desire, but there are surely methods of encouragement which would have the effect of stimulating importation without dangerous interference with the established system. Free transit from England and free railway transport throughout the colony for bloodstock of a certain quality and standard would speedily induce reliable and capable importers to meet any growing local demand. There are various other forms of encouragement which are safe, if somewhat expensive, whereas any Governmental importations are not only expensive, but full of dangers.