THE RABBIT PEST.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 5566, 15 May 1896, Page 2

THE RABBIT PEST.

At the last meeting ' of the Waitahuna Farmers' Club (says the Tuapelca Times) Mr . Robert Craig said he thought they should take into consideration the advisability of approaching the Government with the object of inducing them to supply wire netting to farmers at cost price. In his opinion it was the only plan that would effectually deal with the rabbit pcst — that .of fencing with wire netting the districts infested with rabbits. At present the cost of wire netting, along with/ the middleman's charges, made it prohibitive to farmers, and it would be a great boon to them if the Government could be induced to supply the wire netting on a somewhat similar plan to the money loaned under the Advances to Settlers Act. In other words, that a certain time should be allowed in which to pay off in yearly instalments both principal and interest. Messrs M'Ara, Livingston, Ryan, Scott and others took part in the discussion, all fully approving of the suggestien, and being of opinion that a considerable saving would be made in the present cost of the Rabbit Department if the Government could be induced to adopt the plan suggested. • No new machinery would be necessary, as the Advances to Settlers Board could carry out the plan -if adopted.