PROBLEMS IN THE BACK COUNTRY.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVI, Issue 21323, 18 April 1939, Page 6

PROBLEMS IN THE BACK COUNTRY.

A long list of facts indicating the seriousness of the position facing back country sheep men, was placed before the Acting-Minister of Lands at Tekapo yesterday, and one fairly obvious assumption is that a legislative policy encouraging rising costs has not been conducive to profitable sheep-farming. Back country has not of course, deteriorated from the time the present Government assumed office, but the difficulties pressing on sheep men have made themselves felt because expenditure has been rapidly increased. In the past, it has been claimed that high costs caused by auction rentals, were one cause of back country deterioration; runs were overstocked in an attempt to raise the necessary money and tussocks were eaten out never, in many cases, to grow again. As time has passed, the voracious rabbit has played his part, and so has injudicious burning. But, those are only some of the causes leading up to the position at the present time. And the fact that the high counry man is now faced with an unprofitable proposition, is reflected in part, in the realisations for finewoolled sheep. A thorough investigation of the whole position is undoubtedly required, and the personnel of the necessary commission should include high country men. High country sheep farming in New Zealand has developed into a specialised industry; there are important factors involved which might not be apparent to anyone unacquainted with the subject. The enthusiasts who organised yesterday’s meeting should be able to derive a certain amount of satisfaction from the impressive way they put. important facts before the Minister, and for the sake of a valuable industry it is imperative that the representative of Cabinet should put into effect, early the undertaking given to make a thorough investigation.