THE MAN ON THE LAND

Pahiatua Herald, Volume XXXIV, Issue 10294, 21 July 1926, Page 5

THE MAN ON THE LAND

CHEAPER FERTILIZERS PORT RATES REDUCED. Electric Telegraph—Press Association AUCKLAND, Last Night. As a contribution toward reducing the costs' of fertilisers to the farmers of the Dominion, the Auckland Harbour Board has agreed to reduce port rates on crude sulphur, nitrates, and potash, from Is 10id per ton, to Is 3d, thus making a flat rate for all imported fertilisers, and ingredients used in their manufacture in New Zealand. The request to reduce the charges for handling fertilisers is part of a Dominion wide movement initiated by tlie Prime Minister, to make it easier for the primary producers to obtain fertilisers. Similar representations are being made to other Harbour Boards, and the subject is also being inquired into liy the Railway Department. A desire to do all that was possible to assist farmers was expressed by several members of the Board when the question was raised. Attention to the difference in the rates for various classes of fertilisers and ingredients was drawn by the deputy-chairman, Mr M. H. Wynyard, wlio pointed out that the reduction to the flat rate of Is 3d per ton would cost the Board approximately £357 per annum. It was also stated that any loss of revenue in handling fertilisers should be recouped in the greater amount of produce handled, which would allow the more extensive use of ma nures.