APPEAL FOR LINEN FLAX

Southland Times, Issue 25350, 29 April 1944, Page 3

APPEAL FOR LINEN FLAX

I'6o Acres Promised In Gore District

The slow rate of progress that was being made with the securing of acreages of linen flax in the Gore ( district was mentioned by the Gore representative of the Department of Agriculture (Mr W. Faithful) at a meeting of the Gore branch of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union yesterday afternoon. Only 160 acres had been promised so far, he said, and at that rate of progress it was going to be a long time before the objective of 1200 acres was reached. Practically all the areas already promised had been obtained through canvassing. Mr Faithful said he did not want farmers to take an undue risk, but there were extensive areas up to Waikaka and as far as Waipahi suitable for growing linen flax crops. “I think many farmers intend growing flax,” he said, “and I would like them to let me know so that I can form an idea of the areas to be canvassed. The sooner the plough goes in the better.” An appeal for the growing of flax was received from the secretary of the provincial executive (Mr A. L. Adamson). The chairman (Mr R. Cumming) said he questioned whether the appeal was being conducted along the right lines. The commercial interests should play a bigger part. Every farmer dealt with a particular firm in which he had confidence.

While agreeing with the suggestion, Mr Faithful said the grain and seed merchants had been approached and they had always been able to participate in the appeal. They could get any number of areas and be paid for them. It was decided that the Gore branch should do all it could to induce farmers to grow linen flax.