SEASON’S CROPS

Waikato Times, Volume 130, Issue 21654, 14 February 1942, Page 6

SEASON’S CROPS

PROGRAMME OUTLINED NEXT YEAR’S REQUIREMENTS LABOUR AND MACHINERY (By Telegraph.—Press Association) WELLINGTON, Friday An outline of the agricultural cropping programme for tne 1942-43 season, wnicn in the opinion of the Government and the National Council of Primary Production is necessary to meet tne Dominion’s requirements during the coming year, was announced this evening by the Minister of Marketing, uie Hon. J. G. Barclay. A further statement is to be made later dealing with the pastoral programme for the coming season. In the case of wheat, it is the opinion of the Government that the minimum objective is a sowing of 300,000 acres, entailing increasing last year’s area by approximately 42,000 acres. In respect of oats, it would be advisable that plantings should be maintained at least at the level of this year, 275,000 acres, and wherever possible further increases made in the production of oat chaff and oats to be utilised mainly for home consumption. Producers of maize are asked to maintain their growings at not less than 10,000 acres for the 1942-43 season. Last year's area was 10,700 acres. This should make the Dominion independent of imported supplies. Because of the recent potato shortage, it is highly desirable that farmers should, wherever possible, make plans to plant an increased acreage next spring. Last year the area of onions grown was 903 acres, and if possible during the coming year this should be increased to luOu acres to make the Dominion self-supporting. Military Labour If Necessary The Government has made arrangements for the necessary labour to be provided to ensure planting this autumn and spring and for the subsequent harvest. If this labour is unobtainable through ordinary channels, provision nas been made to secure the assistance of the military authorities in making the necessary manpower available. If petrol is available in the country, farmers can be assured that sufficient supplies will be obtainable to carry out this work. In addition, it is the intention of the Government to organise, if necessary, the supply of essential machinery to enable all producers, and particularly farmers, with small holdings, to harvest their crops with the minimum utilisation ot manpower.