THE COST OF GROWING WHEAT

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20667, 4 March 1937, Page 9

THE COST OF GROWING WHEAT

To the Editor of “ The Timaru Herald." Sir, —As reported in the newspapers, the Hon. D. G. Sullivan, Minister of Industries and Commerce, made a statement after a meeting of the committee of the Wheat Control Board. He expressed concern at the possible shortage of the acreage, of wheat being planted in New Zealand, for the Dominion's requirements. And rightly so. He said New Zealand should grow at least sufficient wheat for our own use. We are all agreed on that. It would be a calamity if we have to import our wheat supply, as the cost of production is the only bar to our growing sufficient wheat for our requirements. Mr Sullivan is anxious to suggest several schemes to find out the actual cost of producing wheat, so as, he says, he will be able to be fair to the grower and consumer. I would suggest, sir, that Mr Sullivan acquire a block of wheat-growing land, and with the assistance of his experts (which may be an advantage) grow wheat—Mr Sullivan to pay the current price for the land, also interest, rates, and taxes, and pay market price for all the commodities' necessary to carry on the industry. For instance, wages 16/- per day, 40 hours a week, plus weather conditions, and all the other disabilities the farmers have to contend with. He will then have firsthand knowledge of the cost of producing wheat, and be in a position to be able to do justice to both grower and consumer. — I am, etc., COUNTRY WORKER. Albury, March 1.