FLAX FOR JAPAN

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21717, 5 February 1934, Page 10

FLAX FOR JAPAN

OBJECTION TO EXPORT RESEARCH WORK IN DOMINION "I am definitely of the opinion that it would be a serious matter for the flaxmillers or the Government of this country to permit of the export of flax plants or seeds to Japan or any other country likely to become competitors of ours," said Mr. D. R. Ogilvy, president of the Manawatu Flaxmillers' Association, in an interview in Palmerston North. "The flaxmillers, by means of a levy of 2d a bale on their hemp, and Government assistance, have expended considerable sums of money in research work on . flax, and in the improvement of the fibre strength. Dr. Yeates, of Massey Agricultural College, has taken up flax research work in earnest, and has devoted much time and energy in combating diseases and effecting improvements to our flax. The work that he has accomplished and has in hand on his experimental plots at the college and in various parts of the Dominion is really an eye-opener. It is most annoying to see these plants and aseds going out of the country after so much labour and money has been expended in their improvement." Mr. Ogilvy said that he and Mr. R. Semple, M.P., who was keenly interested in the development of flax as a primary industry, had waited on the Minister of Lands, the Hon. C. E. Macmillan, immediately they had heard of tlae order being placed in the Dominion. 'lhe Minister had been in accord with fcieir views, and though they had not had advice from him, they were hopeful that the exportation of plants and seeds would be prohibited. Mr. Ogilvy expressed the opinion that with the return of better conditions and prices for hemp, seven or eight of the mills in the Foxton and Shannon districts, which at present were not operating, would recommence milling. There were still many thousands of acres of excellent quality flax in the Manawatu district, especially in the region of Shannon, and with the opening of the woolpack and textile factory at Foxton this month, he thought that the milling industry would be considerably stimulated. At present only four mills were working continuously, but he was looking forward to seeing all the ir ills in the Manawatu district reopening before long. SHIPMENT FROM AUCKLAND FORTY THOUSAND PLANTS A shipment of New Zealand flax plants will be despatched to Japan by the Japanese motor-ship Brisbane Maru, which is to leave Auckland next Thursday. The shipment consists of about 40,000 plants, contained in 20 crates. They are two-year-old plants grown in the Waikato district, and they have been specially packed in crates so that they will not be damaged during the voyage. The commercial value of New Zealand flax is highly appreciated in Japan, where there is already a large area under cultivation. The experiment was commenced about fivo years ago and there are about 700 acres planted already. A yield of fibre is expected in about two years' time.