RAILWAY ACCOUNTS.

Otago Witness, Issue 3769, 8 June 1926, Page 19

RAILWAY ACCOUNTS.

FOUR-WEEKLY PERIOD. WELLINGTON, June 4. The railway working accounts for the period ended May 1 show the following results (shillings and pence omitted): NORTH ISLAND.

STOCK AND GRAZING NOTES. WMkly Stock Sam. Monthly (contlnuod). Bur,‘aide. Wednesdays. l> nntro „ n „„ WKlllM . Addington, Wednesdays. <j a _ Waiareka Railway JuneUon, Tuesdays. Woodlandi, Srd W*. nesaay. J , r ,n, «T!' y - KUton, 2nd Tuesday. Biversdale, Friday*. n i. « . _ J Wallacetown, Tuesdays. ®*W® ur » Br 4 Thursday. Aahborton, Tuesdays. Thorobury, Ist Friday. Beriot, Thursdays. Otautau, 2nd Wedne#» WinMn, Thursday*. * a 7Wyndhana, ThuridajC. Biversdale, Srd tYiday. Clinton, Thursdays. CVaikaka, last Friday. Balolutha, Fridays. CJydevalt, last FYiday Gore, Tuesdays., Ninthly. Pe li! dlC * ,,y M E'endale, Ist Monday. AOvartlsad. Palmerston, 4tb Thurs- Lnmedea, Moss burn, day. Orepukl, Waimahake, Winton, 4ft Tuesday. Waikcuctti. Riv*rliataura, Ist 'Thursday. ton, Kgapara, and Tokanui, 4th Monday. Otago Central Sales, If OTAGO. ! Another capital week’s wintry weather ibrr.s -Otago's experience, there being at . times Vtaght sunshine and an absence of wind. h STOCK NOTES. Tbeji« were no stock sales held last week at the usual centres, owing to the Otago Winter Show and races occupying attention. Good prices were realised for fat cattle .at the show, and fair values for the show f feheep sold by auction. A sharp conflict of opinion took place at the annual meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand on the question of whether or not ewes which were suckling lambs should be shown at l the Royal Show (says the Dominion). ‘Mr J. O. Coop (Waingawa) moved • that a class should be included at next : show for wet ewes. It was, he said, a ! mistake to exclude wet ewes, as had been : done in the past. The President (Mr W. I Perry said he had had 42 years’ experi--1 ence of exhibiting stock at shows, and he Kfcd found that both ewes and lambs deteriorated when forced to travel for long distances to shows. Mr D. Marshall said that the trouble in this country was that breeders kept their ewes too fat. They should get back to constitution, and the exhibition of wet ’ewes at shows would help in this direc’iion. Mr J. 0. Coop: The farmers in the South Island are very keen on having a class for wet ewes included in the [Royal catalogue. Mr Perry: Some of Mr Coop: A show without ewes Slike a garden without a woman. (Laugh- ). This clinched the argument, the retaut vote decreeing that a class for wet fawss should be included on the next Royal I Sfeow programme.

Agricultural Society’s conference. “All the breeds are at fault. We are killing the sheep we should keep, and keeping those we should kill.” His remark was p.ade during a discussion which took place in connection with a remit that the Department of Agriculture be requested tc send to Professor Barker, of England, samples of New Zealand wools, the professor having offered to give a comprehensive report on them free of cost. The remit was adopted. WOOL PRODUCTION. An estimate of wool production has been prepared by Mr E. J. Wilson, of the Textile Division of the United States Department of Commerce. He estimates that the world’s clip amounted to 2.892,416,0001 bin 1925, an increase of 86,000,000 over the previous year. The statistics are divided into two groups. In No. 1 is included the production of countries which are commercially important as growers and whose flocks and clips are closely estimated. Division No. 2 covers countries where no such figures are available, save unreliable data. The largest increase is said to have been in Australia, with the United States and Uriiguay coming second and third respectively. Comparative figures for the last two y<ars are as follow:

WHEAT—AMERICAN METHODS. One of the most important meetings of wheat growers held in the Pacific in the last decade, says the Breeders’ Gazette, was held in Sherman County, Oregon. It was a three-days economic conference of wheat growers, embracing a round-table consideration of vital matters affecting the wheat industry. The meeting was divided into five sections. One gave consideration to world supply and demand. Such fundamental questions as these were taken up: Is Europe likely to ask for more wheat or less? What is the possibility of expansion in Canada, Russia, Argentina, and Australia? Other general divisions dealt with finance and credit, storage, grading, and shipping, and tillage and production. A fifth group gave consideration to the more intricate economic phases of production such as tractor farming v. horses, headers v. combines for harvesting, and similar questions.

including a number of State and Federal officials and representatives of banks and other financial institutions, transportation and selling interests, and elevator operators. The production committee in its recommendations to the general conference stated that under average conditions wheat farms having less than 1000 acres of cultivated land per farm produced wheat at less cost per acre and per bushel with horses than with tractors. They also found that under average conditions wheat farms having more than 1000 acres in cultivation produce wheat as cheaply, in many cases at lower cost per acre and per bushel, with tractor operation (combined with horses), than with horses alone. The production committee showed that the average cost per bushel, determined as the result of several years’ study on Columbia basin wheat farms, was about 4s 2d on yields of 35 bushels or more, and that when the yields ran down to 15 bushels the cost approached 8s 4d. Figures were .Jso brought out showing that the larger the farm in the wheat belt the greater the return on the investment, the 1200-acre farms, as group producing twice the return on the investment that was returned from the 500-acre farm. A point brought out in the study of world supply and demand was that the acreage of wheat may be trebled on demand. Figures were furnished by the United States Department of Agriculture showing that European wheat production is now in excess of the pre-war production, and that in North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and Oceania wheat production is greater now than in pre-war times. All divisions of the world have potential wheat land far in excess of that now devoted to the crop. THE DAIRY WORLD. The New Zealand Cattlecake and Oil Co. (Limited), Auckland, sends us a copy of its periodical for May, in the interests of the dairy industry, from which are taken the following dairying facts:— Ayrshires.—Hindsward Jimmie, of Townhead, senior herd sire of the Ivanhoe Ayrshire herd of Mr A. M. Weir, of M'mzies’ Ferry, Southland. Sire of 11 first-class and one second-class C.O.R. daughters, including Ivanhoe Stylish Daisy, 574.091 b fat, leader of three-year-old class, and Ivanhoe Fancy, 713.931 b fat, leader of four-year-old class. Friesians.—Rosevale King Sylvia, the senior herd sire of the Piri Land Company (Limited). Sire, Netherland King of Rosevale; dam, Burkeyje Sylvia Poach. Eight C.O.R. double standard daughters. The six highest average, 731.391 b of fat; average age, three vears 158 days. Some of his daughters and thsir records:— Aie at lb. of lb- of w

u •• .. ijrr .J*U IO.UCI 041.88 Jerseys.—Waipiko Masterpiece, the senior herd sire of the Alfalfa Jersey herd belonging to Mr F. J. Saxby, Ohaupo road, Hamilton. Waipiko Masterpiece is sired by the famous imported sire Eminent’s Fontaine, and was purchased by Mr Saxby from his breeder, Mr Cyril Dermer, of Cheltenham. He holds what is believed to be a world’s record for his first six daughters, commencing their test at an average age of one year 346 days, of 610.491 bof fat. At present eight of his daughters have doubled their standard. Here are some of their records:—

Grannie's Knight, C. 8.8. 2740, senior herd sire of Mr John Hale’s Hollyoak Jersey herd. Sire of Hollyoak’s Annie, 1056.491 b fat, champion Jersey cow of the British Empire, also of 46 C.0.R., including 10 double standard daughters. Milking Shorthorns.—Dominion Esau of Ruakura (defunct). At the time of his death the property of Messrs Ranstead Brothers, of Matangi. Has 18 C.O.R. daughters, of which four are double standard. Sire of Matangi Quality IV, 978.471 b fat, and Matangi Ruth 11, 747.861 b fat—both bred and tested by Messrs Ranstead Brothers, Matangi. A British Empire record is given—viz.: Hollyoak’s Annie (Jersey), born September 20, 1919; sire, Grannie’s Knight; dam, Anscerine; record, 1924-25, 18,522.71 b milk, 1,056.491 b fat; three milkings per day. Some New Zealand records include — Junior two-year-old: Mona vale Queen Bess (Friesian), 20,510.101 b milk, 740.501 b fat. Senior two-j r ear-old: Netherland Princess IV (Friesian), 19,621.601 b milk, 805.771 b fat. Junior three-year-old: Monavale Queen Bess (Friesian), 21,609.301 b milk, 800.181 b fat. Senior three-year-old: Manor Beets Daughter, 2nd of Ashlynn (Friesian), 18,733.901 b milk, 863.511 b fat. Junior four-year-old: Westmere Princess Pietertje (Friesian), 24,199.001 b milk, 939.781 b fat. Senior four-year-old: Bainfield XXVII (Friesian), 23,203.301 b milk, 910.741 b fat. Mature: Alcartra Clothilde Pietje (Friesian), 31,312.501 b milk, 1145.241 b fat. NEW ZEALAND FRIESIAN ASSOCIATION. OTAGO BRANCH. The annual meeting of the’ Otago branch of the New Zealand Friesian Association was held in the lecture hall at the Exhibition buildings on Thursday. In the absence of the president (Mr G. Aiteheson), on account of illness, Mr F. J. M'Donald (vice-president) occupied the chair. There were 15 members present. The annual report, which was adopted, showed that the year had been a very satisfactory one. The 15-guinea cup presented by the branch for tha owners of the bull whose two previous dams had the highest butterfat records, was won by Messrs North and Sons (Omimi). These breeders have now won tne cup three times, and it becomes their own property. Messrs North and Sons also won outright the shield presented by the Waitaki Dairy Co. The following office-bearers were elected for the ensuing year President, Mr F. J. M'Donald; vice-president, Mr W. Robertson (Middlemarch); secretary and treasurer, Mr S. Bowman; committee —Messrs. L. Colbourne, A. H. Copland, A. Jensen, C. J. Payne, A. Wilkinson, E. North, T. Morris J. Solomon, and T. Hewitt. The society decided to approach the other breeders’ societies on the subject of establishing stud stock sales. A vote of sympathy with Mr Aiteheson in his illness was recorded, and the hope was expressed that he would soon be restored to health. In the course of a paper Mr S. Bowman stated that it had occurred to him that the thousands of pounds that had been spent on purebred dairy cattle in the Dominion stood a very fair chance of being wasted, and would, therefore, cause a set-back to the permanent improvement of the dairy herds of this country. The position, as seen by the writer, was that there was not sufficient care and good judgment exercised in the selection of the herd sires. In the selection of his first sire a farmer had not to be as careful as in succeeding selections. His later sires required the most careful judgment, for it was here that a mistake would ruin the foundation work of the first sire and the disappointments experienced by the farmer would deter him from again buying a sire of that particular breed. The point he wished to make quite clear was that he was of opinion that many breeders sent along sires to purchasers without due consideration for the requirements of their clients. Breeders were sending along any sire without making inquiries as to the quality of die herd—whether it was purebred or consisted of iust cows. The position as seen by him was if sires were to be sent indiscriminately to dairy fa;mers without any inquiry as to how they were to be mated farmers who had started on good lines would find themselves landed with dairy herds of poor constitution and low in fat and milk production. The very qualities for which the Friesian breed was noted would thus be lost to the breed and to the industry, which ardent lovers of the breed were doing so much to improve. Theso remarks did not onlv apply to Frieeian breeders but to all breeders of nure bred cattle in the Dominion, and he therefore considered it of national importance. It behoved the Friesian breeders of this country to get into line and see that the right thing was done. Some few years ago he interested himself in a movement towards advising the dairy factories to adopt a scheme to assist farmers to nurohase bulls of known butterfat producing quality on easy terms. He was still a of opinion that it was a good workable idea, but experience and observation had taught him that while the dairy factories could do much in this direction they lacked the neceseary qualification to advice the farmer to purchase on right lines/ There were very few men engaged in the dairy factory business who had this qualification. He would suggest that a committee of t)>e vaviops branches of the Friesian Association be formed for the purpose of

advising farmers how to select sires to suit their requirements. The farmers should be informed by medium of various circulars and pamphlets that they could obtain the advice sought in this direction, and that ihey be warned of the dangers of selecting sires that would not fit in with their heifers and keep the breed on right lines. SHEARERS’ ACCOMMODATION. WELLINGTON, June 4. The following regulations under the Shearers* Accommodation Act are now In force:— 1. Save in exceptional circumstances, no person shall sleep in the dining quarters or cooking quarters. 2. Where sufficient water is available a plunge bath or shower bath, and suitable and reasonan? equipment for the washing, of clothes, ill an adequate supply of hot water for bathing, and for the washing of clothes, shall be provided. 3. Where sufficient water is not available for the purposes of the last preceding clause, other reasonable equipment for bathing and for the washing of clothes shall do provided to the satisfaction of the inspector. 4. All killing pens shall be kept to the satisfaction of the inspector in a sanitary condition, and at a sufficient distance from the dining, sleeping, and cooking quarters. 5. A fly-proof safe of suitable size shall be provided for use in connection with the cooking quarters. 6. Every employer shall, if so required by the inspector, notify hhn as nearly possible of the date when he intends to commence shearing. 7. Sanitation shall comprise earth closets or some other effective method of disposal of sewage. Where earth closets are provided they shall be situated in a position to be approved by the inspector, not being less than 25 yards from either the sleeping quarters, the dining quarters, or the cooking quarters, and not less than 50 yards from the water supply. A sufficient supply of disinfectants shall also be provided. 8. Satisfactory provision shall be made for the disposal of garbage and drainage from the dining and cooking quarters, so that such refuse shall not create a nuisance, or be detrimental to health. AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL NEWS. “The way we put £1 on the totalisator and then growl when we are asked to put £1 into an investment where we positively know there is a £5 dividend absolutely beats me,” said Mr W. B. Matheson whqn speaking of subscriptions at a Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Union meeting. As evidence of the fact that bargains are still to be found in the saleyards occasionally, a farmer mentioned in conversation with a Timaru Herald reporter that he had recently bought for 9s a head a line of wethers, which killed out at 551 b, arid he was getting 6s for the skins. “1 am ready for absolute control,” said Mr Adam Hamilton, on the question of the Meat Board taking control (reports the Southland Times). “It would be in the best interests of Southland, but we have to consider the rest of New Zealand. Absolute control has my hearty support.” “Well, why not try it?” asked a farmer. “Because New Zealand is bigger than Southland,” replied Mr Hamilton. The increase of sheep in New Zealand, said the Director of Agriculture (Dr C. J. Reakes), was 772,000 over the previous year, including an increase of 639,000 on the number of breeding ewes. The number of ewes last season was 13,715,000, the largest number ever returned since the commencement of statistical compilation, and it forecasted an increase in exportable products as far as sheep were concerned. The breeding of sheep in New Zealand is all wrong, according to Mr R. J. Anderson, who addressed the meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society in Wellington on a suggestion to send samples of New Zealand wool Home to Professor Barker, who had promised a comprehensive report. “We are breeding from too many culls,” he said; “we kill the sheep we should keep, and keep those we should kill-” The offer of Professor Barker is to be accepted. A Ngaturi settler has received advice of gratifying returns on account of carcasses of two pigs shipped to Glasgow last season (says the Wairarapa Age). He was said in the first instance the full local market price, being allowed full weight for tne two pigs. He has now received a balance of £2 9s 6d on 3001 bof pork. Roughly, these pigs netted within a few shillings of £lO after all expenses had been paid. This gives a good idea of the possibilities of the frozen pork trade at Home. At ihe meeting of the New Zealand Clydesdale bociety last week it was mentioned that 16 animals were submitted for veterinary inspection, of which number five stallions and 10 maree were passed, and one stallion was rejected. Regret was expressed, however, that the Stallions’ Biil had not become law. Mr James Wylie, the retiring president of the New Zealand Clydesdale Society, is a firm believer in the creed of having and holding. At the society’s meeting on Wednesday aftemooi it was proposed that Mr A. Hunter should be re-elected as treasurer, the proposer making eulogistic tribute to the good work done by the treasurer in the past. Mr Wylie concurred heartily in Ib P proposer’s remarks, which drew from Mr Hunter the remark that there were just ns good fish in the sea as were every caught. “Aye,” said Mr Wylie, “but we’ve caught this one,’’ and Mr Hunter was forthwith re elected. “ This country wants move intensive cultivation and cheaper fertilisers,” said the Prime Minister when opening the Waikato Winter Show at Hamilton (says the Times). He also remarked that the question of cheaper fertilisers was at present being considered by the Government. The freezing works at Wairoa now contain no fewer than 60,000 carcases (reports the Napier Daily Telegraph), and it is expected that, all conditions being favourable, the total quantity will ho shipped before the beginning of next season. The Port Hardy is due at Waikokopu to load 9000 carcases. A sLaip conflict of opinion took place at the annual meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand whether or not owes which were suckling lambs should be shown at the Royal Show. Mr J. O. Coop (Waingawa) moved that a class should be included at next show for wet ewes. The President (Mr W. Perry) said he had had 42 years’ experience of exhibiting stock at shows, and he had found that both ewes and lambs deteriorated when forced to travel long distances to shows. It was decided thgt a clogs for wot ewes should be founded on the next Royal Show programme.

THE NORTH ISLAND.

fF»o« Oua Own Correspondent.)

Those who were crying out for fine weather have had their wish gratified during the past week, but they have had extreme cold to contend with. Some very hard frosts have been experienced, and the weather has been of the typical winter brand. Agriculturalists, however, have been busy with thei? plough teams in preparation for further seasonable crops. Dairying is dying out fast, and the general opinion is that, despite the shocking commencement, the season’s operations have been fairly satisfactory. Butter has shown a decrease in production, but cheese has a substantial increase to its credit. Reviewing the position in the Auckland province, which, of course, includes the great Waikato, one exporter points out that returns for butter for the season should be approximately equal to those of last season, notwithstanding the difficulties of marketing in Britain owing to industrial troubles. A feature of the London market has been the even range at' which prices have been maintained. Unfortunately, owing to the shipping strike, very little New Zealand butter reached England in time to benefit by the fairly high prices that ruled early in the season. Early in December the prospect of a glutted market in January, due to large arrivals from New Zealand and other countries, caused prices to drop, and on December 12 the London quotations for New Zealand butter ranged from 172 s per cwt to 178 s per cwt. The market was steadied at about these prices, and during the ensuing five months did not fluctuate more than 10s per cwt. The latest quotations are 168 s to 172 s per cwt. It would appear from present indications that the prospects for New Zealand butter during the next few months are reasonably good. The producers had not rushed the market with supplies, and there might be some accumulations to clear, but this should not affect the market seriously. An important factor was that butter production both in New Zealand and Australia was lower this year than last, and the merchants in Britain were aware of the statistical position. A week or two ?>efore the strike in Britain there had been small parcels of butter sold locally for export at Is 6d per lb. CATTLE BRANDING. The Royal Agricultural Society had before it the question of altering the place of branding on cattle, and the matter was finally handed over to the council to deal with, with power to act. Introducing a remit on the question, Mr H. B. Stuckey moved—“ That the branding of cattle be made illegal except on shoulder or neck.” In doing so, he contended that there was tremendous loss to farmers through the present system of branding. In 1925 595,000 ox hides had been produced in the Dominion, and setting aside calfskins there had been a loss on each hide of round about ss, making a total loss to the country of from £150,000 to £250,000 annually. This was very serious. The argument was advanced that if farmers did not brand their hides they would get more for them. A great deal • of the damage, he thought, was due to the branding iron being put on tod cold and kept on much longer than otherwise would be necessary. This meant that the brand was too deep. Mr J. D. Hall (Canterbury) seconded. Dr C. J. Reakes (director of agriculture) told the conference that the department would be very glad indeed to have its opinion on the matter. The figures quoted were very striking, and he knew from personal experience that the practice of branding animals on the hip, which was one of the most commercially valuable parts of the hide, was, from a business point of view, a very serious matter. It was said that with stock branded on any other part of the body identification was rendered difficult when they were herded together. The point was whether this additional inconvenience would not • be more than counter-balanced by the increase in value of the hides. Like all other marketed material, hides sold on their merits, and if they would become more valuable when a new system of branding was adopted, it was only reasonable to assume that the farmer would get the benefit of the increase in value. The Minister of Agriculture would like to be informed as to farming opinion, for legislation was being drawn up, and what form it took would be influenced by the decision of the conference. Mr H. Ross, secretary of the New Zealand Tanners’ Association, addressing the conference at its invitation, said that in the past the farmer had never received the benefit of proper branding. The Tanners’ Association thought that legislation should be introduced compelling auctioneers to make separate stacks of branded and unbranded hides. At present the hides were not stacked separately, and the buyers had not the time to go through them. But if the auctioneer was compelled to stack separately, the farmer would benefit. In Victoria, in 1908, an Act governing branding had been passed, and in it the shoulder was specified as the place on which to brand. But anywhere forward of the shoulder would do, it was immaterial from the point of view of the tanner. The notion that the brand was not visible anywhere save on the rump was erroneous, and was the result of habit. A brand was just as visible high up on the shoulder. In answer to a question by the chairman, Dr Reakes said that the Government had no fixed ideas on the subject beyond wanting to do what was best in the interest of the farmers, and after them of the tanners and the dealers in leather. Mr H. Ewart asked that the remit should not be voted on until the opinions of the owners of Aberdeen Angus cattle could be obtained. Herefords and Shorthorns could be branded on the horns if necessary, but Aberdeen Angus cattle had no horns. He moved that the matter should be referred to the Aberdeen Angus Breeders’ Society, and thnt the reply should be dealt with by the council. One speaker maintained that there had been a great deal of exaggeration about tbs matter, but Mr Ross assured the meetIpg that there had been no exaggeration. r Vft«y rpAoaed, as toners, that the value of a Urae” wm dWinished by one penny

per pound by the present system of branding. Other defects brought the loss up to 3d per pound, but they had nothing to do with branding. If they took one penny per pound on something like 600,000 hides, they would get the annual loss to the country. To this must be added the tremendous amount of leather imported to New Zealand for belting. The leather should be available in the Dominion, but the tanners could not get unbranded hides in sufficient quantities to turn it out. Mr Stuckey agreed to the matter being held over in the meantime, and referred to the Cattle Breeders’ Society, after which it would be dealt with by the council. He assured menbers that the remit would be adopted by the council. This action met with unanimous approval. ROOT CROPS IN TARANAKI. The root crops competition of the Toko settlers resulted as follows : Mangolds.—J. B. Hine 11 tons 13cwt (tveight 223, cultivation 9, quality 8) 240, 1; Evan Jones, 83 tons lewt (weight 166, cultivation 9, quality 9) 184, 2; W. 11. Were, 82 tons 14cwt (weight 165, cultivation 8, quality 9) 182, 3. Other entries were:—A. Marfell, 62 tons 6cwt (1414 points); L. Marfell, 62 tons 6cwt (1404 points); Max Gernhoefer, 58 tons scwt (133 points); J. R. Woollaston, 53 tons 15cwt (125 points); L. Marfell, 54 tons 14cwt (125 points); Max Gernhoefer, 50 tons 17cwt (1184 points); Max Gernhoefer, 42 tons Iscwt (102 points). Swedes.—A. Marfell, 60 tons 16cwt (weight 121$, cultivation 8, quality 94), 139, 1; Evan Jones 60 tons llcwt (weight 121, cultivation 8, quality 9) 133, 2; H. Kaye, 51 tons 18cwt (weight 1034, cultivation 84, quality 8) 120, 3. Other entries: J. Wainer, 49 ton 9 19c\vt, 116 points; 11. Cook, 48 tons 17cwt, 112 points; J. B. Hine, 35 tons 15cwt, 814 points; Clark Bros., 30 tons 13cwt, 75 points; Clark Bros., 28 tons 15cwt, 714 points. Carrots.—J. R. Woollaston, 50 tons (weight 100, cultivation 9, quality 8). 118, 1; W. 11. Were. 43 tons lOcwt (weight 97, cultivation 8, quality 9), 114, 2; Max Gernhoefer, 42 tons 2cwt (weight 84, cultivation 74, quality 8), 994, 3. PRICES OF WOOL. An ex-banker in Wellington has compiled a comparative statement of the prices obtained at auction for wool at London and Wellington on or about March 27 last make interesting reading. The prices quoted in London are those cabled by the New Zealand Loan Company, which happened to he the self-same grades as those telegraphed by the Press Association,’ and obtained at the Wellington sales, same day. —London Prices.— Highest and lowest, cl. d.

Seedy and inferior, all grades I*2 to 54 It will be noticed, said the ex-banker, that there is a much wider range of value at Dominion sales than in London, and sellers wilt be able to effect fair comparisons. Both prices are subject to transport and sale charges, but London charges are not now much greater than Dominion, as wool is sent direct to port of shipment. THE FARMER’S YEAR. The Prime Minister, speaking at the Waikato Winter Show, dealt with the past year’s operations as it affected the farmers. He said that unsatisfactory climatic conditions had prevailed in various parts of New Zealand. There had been dry spells in Hawke’s Bay, the East Coast, and in Marlborough, but the conditions in Auckland, Taranaki, ancf Canterbury Avere somewhat better. One of the chief features of the agricultural year had been the substantial increase in the number of sheep raised. There had been a further decrease in the area under wheat and a decline in the production of butter-fat. The number of cattle grown had also shown a shrinkage. Features of the market had been a fall in the value of wool and in the prices for lamb and mnutton, while there had been a moderate decline in the prices for butter and cheese. The principal need at the present time was to increase the volume of primary products, and at the same time to reduce costs. This called for better farming methods, the further subdivision of farm lands, and a deflation of land values in some districts. During the last year the imports had exceeded exports—a position which showed the need for general thrift. Mr Coates held that New Zealand dairy should pay more attention to quality. Russia and Denmark were in active competition with New Zealand on the English butter market, and as they were a few hundred miles away from the market compared with the thousands of miles vvliich separated New Zealand from Britain, they had a great advantage. Storage had a deteriorating effect on New Zealand butter, and this was noticed by the British consumer. Australian butter had realised the same price as New Zealand a few days ago because the latter butter had deteriorated in quality during storage. Speedy transit was one of the essentials needed by New Zealand producers for the supply of good butter to the English market. In reply to an interjection, Mr Coates said the conduct of the Dairy Control Board was in the hands of the producers. He agreed that the greatest care* should be exercised in controlling the export of produce. Another point referred to was the need for extending the dairying season throughout the year, instead of for a limited period only. Dealing with the meat industry, Mr Coates said the output of lamb for the six-month period ended April 30 amounted to 4,245,000 carcases—an increase of 150,000 carcases over the corresponding period last year. Beef showed a decided shrinkage. The export trade in pork showed a small increase, but lacked real expansion. Better feeding and care were

essential in this respect. The European markets were proving a useful outlet for New Zealand’s secondary and cow beef. For example, Italy, France, Belgium, and Germany were now buying supplies of this produce. As far as the wool industry was concerned, there had been an increase of 750,000 sheep in 1925, but still this number was 2,000,000 less thau the peak number of 26,500,000 in 1918. The average value realised at Dominion sales was just under 12d per lb, compared with nearly 20d in 1924-25. On present production the difference of each Id per lb meant approximately £1,000,000 less return to the grower. New Zealand fruit production and export trade, said Mr Coates, had eclipsed all previous records. The Government had guaranteed Id per lb up to 750,000 cases, and already 650,000 cases had been sent away. This was a remarkable increase over the 200,000 cases exported prior to the Government taking action. The cost to the country had so far not exceeded £SOOO, and a new industry had been established. A splendid outlook had been opened up for tell hemp industry, and the export trade had expanded by 8000 bales last year, as compared with the output of 1924-25. Mr Coates appealed for support of Britain by buying British-made goods and by absorbing British stock as immigrants. OUR CANTERBURY AGRICULTURAL BUDGET. (Feoy 00-u Own CobbesponointJ SOME STINGING FROSTS. Frosts have been experienced in Canterbury, which will effectively check growth. It is June, and we must expect such weather conditions. The 14 degrees which were registered on Friday morning was the highest for the season up to then, and there w r ere others that left one in little doubt as to what season of the year it is. Ploughing operations were not possible until late on one or two days; but on most agricultural farms this work is w*ell advanced. When the wheat is all sown it would not surprise the writer if close upon twice the area is down in the cereal when the returns are compiled. The problem then will be how the surplus is to be disposed of instead of the present one as to importing our supplies. QUIETER STOCK MARKETS. After an easing off there has been a resumption of the shipping of ewes from the North Island. This week there were again several consiguments of ewes from the East Coast country. Some very fairclass ewes were among them, and they were rather better conditioned than usual from this quarter of the Dominion. Generally, business is quite quiet, and the more venturesome are now looking ahead as to what the future holds, with a view to forward buying. This is the most speculative of all stock operations, and it embraces, at this time, wethers off the shears and lambs; but the volume, is not at all considerable, and so far as lambs for next season are concerned the peculiar features of the fat lamb trade, coupled with the weakness in wool, will tend to restrict this class of business to a small compass. Much money was dropped by the forward delivery buyers last seasou, and had it not been that they had had several very good years preceding quite a number would have been unable to stand the gruelling they received at the hands of the market. There were a few casualties. Last year much re-selling was done with options on stock. Lines of lambs sold at 21s to 23s by groAvers were turned over many times by speculators. Cases are knoAA'n of where sales Avere made three, four, and fiA*e times before the delivery Avas gi\’en, and in each case at an advance. There was no little heart-burning Avhen it Avas necessary for delh’eries to be taken, especially Avhen the spring A\*cather Avas against good lambs being turned off. The fonvard dell\*ery nian has to risk much more than the market. BUYING FOR SOUTHLAND. On Tuesday the market was held at Addington, in view of the fact that the holiday folloAving an ordinary Wednesday sale Avould have meant that stock purchased could not be slaughtered until Friday. It is usual that the altering of the date of the Addington sale has the effect of making the entry of small proportions, and does not improve it from • a business point of vieAv, but this week the attendance was up to the average, and the fat stock sales were quite representative. It was fortunate that buyers for South Canterbury and the Southland Province AA’ere present,” for the buying power of Canterbury was not great. Not that Canterbury farmers haAe all the stock they require, but it Avas due to the fact that the sheep of the class wanted Avere not aA’ailable. The southern men took between 10 and 12 trucks for Edendale, and the purchases for South Canterbury Avere heavy. Many attractive pens of ewes were sold to the south. One pen of fine Avoolled sheep, Avith sound mouths, that had been on a good farm, made a fair test of the eAve market. This was a draft of ewes, strong halfbreds with a sprinkling that might have been described as three-quarterbreds. A proportion of four and six-toothed sheep were among them, and they had been mated with black-faced rams. The condition of the eAves Avas good, and they represented a typical small farm flock. The sheep had cost the vendor very little under 40s, back in the autumn, hut they had not been bought for sale. Competition Avas keen, and they went to 33s before the bidding stopped, but the price A\ r as not sufficient to reimburse the vendor for the outlay. Another pen of eAves which were out of the ordinary was some soundmouthed Corriedales from the property of Mr G. D. Greemvood (Teviotdale). These were four, six, and eight-toothed 'sheep, and some of the older eAves showed the fact that they were off hard country in the rather worn row of teeth they had. This line of 300 sold at 34. The North Island ewes sold at from 21s to 265, according to age and condition, but they have to be good to make 25s or better. Of late wethers have not been selling so keenly, but good sorts are very scarce. Some good-skinned halfbred two-tooths this week sold at 20s. Store lambs are easing back practically every Afeek, and it wijl not bo until the weather turns that they will alter much.

All stock OAvners were interested in the wool sale held lately in Christchurch, for it suggested thnt the buyers were quite willing to handle any lines which were offering, which is a healthy sign at the fag end of the year, and they Avere prepared to pay rather better priles than the rates which ruled at the concluding sale of the main series. This is a hopeful augury for the opening of the season, in November next, for it is good to see the buyers eager to do business at the end of the season. REVIVAL IN POTATOES. SensitiA’c to the slightest influence, the potato market, which had seemed submerged in a sea of depression, has responded buoyantly to cabled inquiries from Sydney. An actual rise in rates of 58 a ton has been witnessed, with a translation of timidity from buyers to sellers. Once more a spirit of optimism is abroad. Up to and including Wednesday, the sheet anchor of the market appeared to haA’e dragged. June potatoes were quoted from £5 to £5 5s a ton, f.0.b., s.i., July-Septembei-8 from £6 5s to £6 7s 6d, and August-Septemher from £6 10s to £6 15s. But troubled Avaters became calmer on receipt of cabled requests for quotations from Sydney, for the special significance of this revived inquiry was that it set in after the arrival from the Dominion of the Waikouaiti with a large consignment. Either the effect on the Sydney market of what seemed to be an over-supply has been less than expected, or the quality of stocks much better. Canterbury operators got busy, buyers appearing. Not only did rates rise as stated, but it is hard to find sellers. Advices from Auckland are to the effect that in a Aveek or 10 days the glut of supplies will be worked off. By then coastal business should come into its OAvn again. It W’ould seem that the danger of the Auckland market again being submerged is not large. Clearly, an unusual set of circumstances caused the recent flooding. The yield was big, and the fine Aveather and the good prices combined to set groAvers digging with zest. The market “rained potatoes,” and at the critical moment Syd-. now AvithdreAv. But the supply now has eased off greatly, and should not be supject to big fluctuations. The prospect is that there should be steady shipments to Sydney. From Lyttelton alone, oA’er 400 tons AA'ere lifted in May, and sales for June-July-August are heavy. In the three months the indication is that from 10,000 to 15,000 tons will be shipped from Lyttelton alone for Australia. That must ha\e an effect both moral and actual. Very feAV farmers accepted the prices offered when the market slumped, a factor .assisting an improvement in the situation. Now merchants probably would offer the enhanced price of £4 a ton on trucks for June, and they may pay more before long. For July the quotation is £5. THE BREADSTUFFS AND PRODUCE MARKETS. Friday evening. Advices from Liverpool in regard to wneat state tnat tne Uontineu of Europe is still buying, and that short supplies in the United Kingdom are keeping the price of wheat in the near positions firm. Canadian and Argentine shippers are asking an advance oi 6d a quarter. "BromhaH” says that hencelorth the market will be dependent largely upon weather and crop influences. In North America the winter crops are in good condition, while the spring crops are fair. In Europe the plants are Dackward, and the hkely production there, it is lorecasted, will be below tnat oi luat year. Although there has been a marked slackening in oversea demands for Australian flour in the last tew wecKs, millers in the Common weal tii have built up an extensive trade in various parts of the world. Egyptian business in particular has grown, and Egypt is now the principal maruet for Australia. Eastern business has also ex panded. Competition in the world flour markets, however, in increasing, but at the moment exporting countries all report dull market conditions. In the United States reports are that the mills on the whole are working only about 55 per cent, capacity, and Canadian mills arc also said to he running at reduced time. In the United States, however, several large flour mills havo been erected in the last two or three years, and additional plants are being provided. The capacity of some of the individual milk is very large, and one just completed is capable of producing 2000 tons of flour daily. It is believed that this is the largest single unit mill in the world. Although millers in Australia recognise that competition for world trade will become more intense they are confident that Australia will hold its OAvn. Within the last few weeks a heavy business has been done in cornsacks (says the Australasian). Purchases in Calcutta for season’s shipment have been extensi :e, and trade opinion is that at least 100,000 bales so far have been bought in that centre. In addition agents in the country in V ictoria have bought supplies freely, and farmers also have obtained a portion of their requirements. Much of the business was done at higher prices than those now ruling, and concern is expressed by holders at the substantial drop prices that has been recorded in tne Calcutta market in the last two weeks. This decline has been reflected here in the desire oi some resellers to press sales at below Calcutta parity. This position has been brought about by two reasons. First, the yield of jute is largely in excess of the official estimate pf about 7,800,000 bales, and Calcutta merchants consider that production may exceed 9,000,000 bales. Already arrivals of jute at the Indian seaboard ports from growing districts have amounted to considerably more than the estimated yield. Secondly, the high price that has obtained for raw jute has influenced economy in the use of this material to a far greater extent than Avas predicted. Paper as a substitute Avas used considerably in America, particularly in connection with the bagging of cement, and it is understood that paper bags Avere also employed fairly extensively for sugar purposes. These factors combined have resulted in dealers-in India being left with a large quantity of raw jute on their hands, purchased at high prices. Another matter that is tending to influence lower prices for jute is the opinion expressed in Calcutta that prospects for the new season’s crop are mqst promising, and that a yjpljd of 10,600.000 males would cause no surprieetto the trade in India.

LOCAL MARKETS. Some of the farmers who came to Dun. odin for Show Week brought samples of wheat which they had taken from recontlythreehed lines or from stocks they had been holding in their barns. There is not much demand, however, for either milling or fowl wheat. Local millers, as 3tated last week, have reduced their buying limits to 6s Bd, 6s lOd, and 7s per bushel for Tuscan, Hunters, and Velvet respectively. These were the prices decided on at a conference of millers held a few months ago, but in order to obtain supplies some millers paid higher than the values agroed upon. GroAvers are not prepared to accept the reduced values, and as a result there is little business passing. As a matter of fact the quantity of wheat held by groAvers is not large, and it can hav-e no effect on the future of the market. Millers are holding fair-sized stocks, and with the reduced demand for flour they should have no difficulty in securing all the wheat they require till the new season’s crop is available. Australian Avheat is still going in to the North Island, and a considerable amount of flour continues to be imported from Australia. Millers’ prices for flour remain unchanged as folloAvs: —2001 b, £lB 10s 100’s, £l9 10s; 50’s, £2O 2s 6d; 25’s, £2O 10s. Bran, £8 10s per ton. Pollard, £9 10s. Oatmeal, 25’s, £25; 200’s, £24. The oat market is quite lifeless. The bulk of the best oats has noAV passed from farmers’ hands, and the only lines offering are under grade, Avhich have been affected by the weather. There is little demand for this quality. North Island merchants appear to have sufficient stocks of Canadians to keep them going. Local merchants are content to hold AvliateA'er stocks they have, as they consider that prices cannot come any lower. The current prices to farmers are 3s 3d on trucks, sacks extra, for A grade; and 3s for B’s. These prices are equivalent to 4s 3d, f.0.b.5.i., for A’s, and 4s for B’s—the nominal shipping quotation to-day. Under-grade are being sold at 2s 6d on trucks, sacks extra, country sidings, for sound lines, but the volume of business is small. The demand locally for chaff is on th* quiet side. Odd lots only are coining to hand, and these are being sold at £5 15s to £6, sacks extra, ex truck. Some shipping inquiries have been received, but the prices asked by farmers will not permit of much business being transacted, as North Island merchants can buy cheaper from either Canterbury or Blenheim. Some lines have been sent away from here, hoAvever, but merchants report that there is only a small margin of profit. The weakening in the Canterbury potato market has been reflected in the local market, and buyers are holding off the market to some extent. Odd lots have been sold at £6 to £6 10s per ton, sacks included, ex truck, but South Canterbury is nowoffering to supply the market with good quality at £5 ex trucks. This quotation is equivalent tq about £5 15s delivered m Dunedin. Growers in this district are not prepared to sell at the present market values, and as a consequence their line* are being put into store. Reports from Australia state that tha market there is over-supplied in the meantime. There have been inquiries, however, for potatoes for spread delivery, and it is thought that there may still be a chance of doin" business with Australia. The yields ol potatoes have been very heavy right throughout New Zealand, and a ~fair quantity will have to be shipped if the surplus is to be absorbed. The quality of the tubers is better this season than it has been for some years. Current wholesale prices for produce lines are as follows: Chaff, £5 15s to £6 per ion. Potatoes, £6. Dairy Butter. —Best milled bulk Is 4d per lb, according to quality; separator pats Is Eggs.—Stamped, 2s 9d : case, 2* 7d; preserved, Is 9d. Bacon.—Roll, Is 3d per lb. Hams, Is 3d per lb; boneless. Is 4d. Canterbury onions, 16s to 16s 6d per cwt, FRUIT REPORT. A moderate shipment of Island oranges arrived during the week from Auckland. The market being bare of supplies these were readily taken up. A line of Aucklandgrown poorman oranges is expected next week. Supplies of lemons are on the short side. Auckland-grown only are on the market. A line of Fiji bananas is expected next week. Supplies of Christchurch-grown tomatoes are now about finished. Local-grown are still available in small lots. Fair quantities of pears are reaching the market. Prices have been ruling low, j apparently on account of the small size* of the fruit arriving. Fair supplies of dessert apples are coming forward. Prices are loav. A fair inquiry exists for sound cookers. Some nice lines of Sturmer apples ha\e arrived from . Marlborough. Current Avhojesale prices aro as follow:—* Bananas. —Ripe, to 30s. Apples.—Cox’s Orange: Choice, 10s 6d > per case, medium 6s to 7s; Jonathans, 6s 6d to 7s 6d for prime; Sturmers, 7s 6d to 8s 6d; cookers, 4s 6d to 5s 6d. Oranges.—lsland, 15s as landed; 16a 6d to 18s repacked; Italian, 21s 6d to 22s 6d. Lemons —Auckland. 22s 6d to 255. Tomatoes. —Christchurch, choice, 4d to sd; Central. sd; local hothouse, Is to Is 5d per lb. Grapes, Is 6d to 2s 3d per lb. Pears.—Dessert, prime, 2d per lb; cook-: ing, lid. Peas. 3d. Rhubarb, 2d to 3d per lb. Cabbages.—Choice, Is 6d to 3s per sack of two dozen; others, unsaleable. Cauliflowers, 6s to 8s per sack containing a dozen (choice only); others, 3s to ss. Celery, 4d to 6d per bunch of four sticks. White turnips, Is per dozen bunches. * Parsnips. 8s 6d per cwt. ' Carrots, 6s to 7s per cwt. \ Potatoes, 7s 6d per cwt. w * Swedes, 4s to 5s per cwt. ». * * MarroAvs, 8s 6d per cwt. , Pumpkins, 10s per cwt. * •: MERCHANDISE MARKET.’* A parcel of English cream of tartar bail just come to hand by the Port Napier. j A special line oi Turban brand figs, inj drums, lias just come to hand. The prW\ is 13s 6d per doron. The next consignment of sugar will arrival by the Waipahi. which fa due about Tues-I dfty next. In the meantime local stocks arc. ample-for requirements.

a parcel *>f genuine ground almonds, Turla« brand, haa crtuo Co hand, and shows a ir-crejuM in cost. The quotation is *t*w 5a 9u per doKen. "*he Karetu, which arrived to-«lay from Sydney, Melbourne, and Ilobart, brought t. wonhi pm 2 ate ex reveral Eastern steamers, inchuhrig tea from Colombo. She also brought a consignment of Mildtua sultanas nud rsnts, and a parcel ot canned fruit from Hobart.

ExpenPer Revenue . diture. £ £ revenue. Kniku 710 7,901 126.82 (lisbornc ... 3,129 3.216 102.79 North Island main lines and branches ••• 399,720 270,733 67-73 / Totals ... 403,560 274,852 68.11 SOUTH ISLAND. Main lines and branches ... 301,382 212,046 70.36 Westport ... 10,628 7,647 71.95 ’ Nelson 2,480 2,643 106.58 Picton ••• ... 3,551 3,697 10411 Totals ... 318,042 226,034 71.07 Operating * totals ... 721,603 590,887 68.41 > Miscellane o u s ro venue ... 24,199 — — 4 Lake Wakafcipu V steamers ... 901 1,139 126 S4 Rofres hment rooms ... ... 25,150 16,751 66.58 Departme n t a 1 dwellings •.. 6,505 8,184 126.81 , Grand totals ... 778,370 526,963 67,70 '

1904. 1025. Lb I.b Europe .. .. .. 528,403,000 535,309,000 North Amerka .. 304,167,000 319,834,000 South America .. 435,742,000 446,283,000 Africa .. .. 246,600,000 Australia .. 662,400,000 735,000,000 New Zealand .. 188,000,000 170,000,000 Other countries .. 445,330,000 439,330,000 2,806,442,000 2,892,416,000

3 . . 5yr COd 21,688 743.29 4 .. 2yr 273d 20,564 681.91 6 . . 2yr 34d 15,100 651.38 0 . . 2yr 34d 15.061

Age at lb. of Starting Test. Butter-fat. 1 .. .. 2yr 4d 690.16 2 .. .. 2yr 36d 677.95 3 .. .. 2yr 9d 668.46 4 .. .. lyr 342d 649.26 .. .. lyr 348(1 630.94 0 .. .. lyr 347(1 615.63

Merino Crossbred, 56-58 .. . .. 22 to 19 Crossbred, 50-5G .. . .. 20 tv. 17 Crossbred, 48-50 .. . .. 18 to 16 Crossbred, 46-48 .. . .. 16 to 14 Crossbred, 4-1—16 .. . Crossbred, 40-44 .. . .. 14* to 13 Crossbred, 36-40 .. . .. 14 to 13 —Wellington Prices.— Highest and lowest d. d. Merino .. Crossbred, 56-58 .. 17* to 11 Crossbred, 50-56 .. . .. 16* to lOJ Crossbred, 48-50 .. 15i to 10 Crossbred, 46-48 .. . .. 141 to 9 Crossbred, 44-46 .. 13£ to 91 Crossbred, 40-44 .. . .. 121 to 9 Crossbred, 36-40 .. . .. 12 to 9