AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATIONS. (REPLIES TO CIRCULARS SENT BY MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1891 Session II, H-39

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Sess. 11.—1891. NEW ZEALAND.

AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATIONS. (REPLIES TO CIRCULARS SENT BY MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE.)

Return to an Order of the House of Representatives, dated 24th June, 1891. Ordered, " That a copy be laid before this House of any circular addressed by the Minister of Agriculture to the several agricultural and pastoral associations, or other similar bodies, throughout the colony, inviting an expression of their opinion on questions of interest to the agricultural and pastoral industries; and ako of any replies to such circular." —(Hon. Sir John Hall.)

No. 1. (Circular Memorandum.) Department of Agriculture, Wellington, 27th May, 1891. With the object of benefit to the Agricultural Department I shall be glad to have the views of your society on any subject relating to the welfare of the agricultural and pastoral industries which it may deem necessary to consider during the incoming session of Parliament. This circular has been sent to all kindred societies throughout the colony. As the session is close at hand, you will oblige by bringing this before your committee for their consideration at the earliest opportunity. John McKenzie, The Secretary, — . Minister of Agriculture.

EEPLIES EBCEIVBD TO ABOVE CIECULAE. Dbab Sib,— Whangarei, 29th June, 1891. In reply to the circular you forwarded I beg to inform you that at a meeting of our club, held on the 24th instant, it was resolved, " That, in the opinion of this club, a stud-book should be established in New Zealand. That the ninety-four days quarantine for imported stock should commence from date of shipment instead of from the date of landing. That sellers and producers of all manures, including bone-dust, artificial or otherwise, should hold a certificate from a practical analyst before they can dispose of the same. That such, manures contain the parts they are represented to contain, and the quality and analyst's report to appear on the bags or other article in which the manures are packed or stored. Yours, &c, J. Melville Guilding, Secretary, Whangarei Farmers' Club.

Sib,— New Plymouth, 6th July, 1891. In reply to your circular of the 27th May last I have the honour, by direction of a subcommittee of the Taranaki Agricultural Society appointed for the purpose, to make the following recommendations as being conducive to benefits in the welfare of agricultural and pastoral industries, and in the interests of farmers in the district, viz.: — 1. That Mr. Sawyers (the Government dairy expert) should devote his services for the coming season principally in the North Island. 2. That increased facilities in the way of ventilated vans and freight at reduced rates be accorded to exporters of dairy produce, in order that overland freights will more closely approach sea freights. 3. That urgent need is felt for the provision of cool storage for produce at port of shipment. 4. That the aid of the Government be invoked to assist exporters in causing the shipping companies to place a copy of the cool-chambers' daily temperature at the disposal of consignors and consignees, and they assure the temperature shall not rise above a certain degree of heat, such degree to be mutually agreed upon for cheese and butter respectively. 5. That the farming interest should be more fully represented in Parliament,'and that the owners of land, who pay taxes on such land, should have a voice in the return of members representing the constituency or district where such land is situated. 6. That Sheep Inspectors should visit and inspect the flocks periodically. I—H. 39.

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7. That the tax on sheep should not exceed what is sufficient to pay the salaries of the Sheep Inspectors. 8. That there should be no distinction between the Native and European races respecting the collection of rates and the erection of legal fences where Native land joins European. 9. That farmers should be permitted to shoot game on their own land at all seasons when necessary to protect their crops, such permit to be obtained from the Magistrate or a Justice of the Peace. I have, &c, C. S. Mills, Secretary, Taranaki Agricultural Society. The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington.

Sik,— New Plymouth, 13th July, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of a sub-committee appointed by the Taranaki Agricultural Society, to reply to your circular of 27th May last, to supplement our recommendations of the -6th instant as follows :— That steps should be taken to abate the furze nuisance in this district. We had the matter under consideration last week, but being informed at the meeting there was provision made in one of the Acts by which a neighbour could be compelled to keep his boundary clear of stray furze for a space of half a chain, we did not bring the matter under your notice. We have since heard that no such proviso exists, and it is our opinion that such power is urgently needed, and, further, that the banks of rivers and streams should be kept free of furze owing to the seeds floating therefrom, and that the occupier of any land should be compelled to keep half the road free from furze, and it should not be necessary to prove that gorse spread from either side. Proviso to section 6 " Public Works Act, 1889," which provides that the local authority should have reasonable ground for believing that the plants have spread from adjoining ground leads to difficulties. We think that when it is brought before the notice of the police that stray furze is growing alongside of any road or scream, they (the police) should notify the owner or occupier of the land, to clear the same and see that such notice is complied with. We recommend this last paragraph as the local bodies appear to be too negligent hi the matter. Ou behalf of the Committee, I have, &c, C. S. Mills, Secretary, Taranaki Agricultural Society. The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington.

Sik, — Carterton, 24th June, 1891. I have the honour to inform you that the Show Committee of the Wairarapa and East Coast Agricultural and Pastoral Society, in reply to your circular of the 27th May, 1891, make the following suggestions:— Quarantine Charges. —The Society begs to call the attention of the Government to the excessive charges on stock. The expenses of the present system militates much against importing stud stock from outside countries. High Charges on Sliow Stock by Rail. —Though this department is not under the direct control of the Government, this society thinks it a matter that may well bo included in the reply to your inquiry. At present the cost of attending the different shows with show stock deters many from competing at any but their local show, whereas if the charges by rail were reduced breeders by coming together would be enabled to reap the benefit of each others experience. Disease among Young Stock. —The Society suggests the desirability of making careful inspection where many deaths occur among young stock. At present the death rate of hoggets and calves in some parts of the colony is very large indeed. A thorough inspection of such localities would probably, in many cases, result in the discovery of some of the causes. Analysing Artificial Manures. —This is a matter of very great importance. At present the purchaser has no means of obtaining an analysis, and these manures are now being very largely used. The society would therefore advocate that the services of the Government analyst should be placed at the disposal of farmers, in order that they may be saved the heavy loss entailed too frequently by adulteration. I am, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture. E. W. Dobset, Secretary.

Resolution passed by the Pahiatua County Council, 26th August, 1891, Ec Gone Nuisance. I have the honour to forward you a copy of resolution passed by the Council at its last meeting— viz. :— Resolved, That Mr. Hogg, M.H.E., be requested to ask the Ministry in legislating on the question of the gorse nuisance to make provision for the following: That any Eoad Board or County Council, in which gorse has not been introduced to any considerable extent, be empowered to prevent the introduction of gorse and destroying any found in such district, if there should be any already planted ; that the body aforementioned be empowered to compensate owners and destroying same; that the plants to be included in the measure be gorse, sweetbriar, and Californian thistle. Geokge Mooee, County Clerk.

•Manawatu and West Coast Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Dear Sib,- —■ Palmerston North. I have the honour to acknowledge the .receipt of your circular of the 27th May, which was laid before my committee on Saturday last, and I was instructed to say that this society will from

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time to time furnish you with any information, or make any suggestions they consider necessary for the welfare of the agricultural and pastoral industries. Yours faithfully, 0. C. Mills, Secretary.

Sir, — - Hawke's Bay Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Napier, 7th July, 1891. In reply to your circular of the 27th May I have the honour to inform you that at a meeting of this society, held on the 3rd instant, the following resolutions were carried : — (1.) That this society recommends that a bonus should be offered for the first five tons of starch, and a further bonus for the first five tons of farina manufactured in Hawke's Bay from potatoes. (2.) That this society recommends that the Government should give every possible encouragement to the dairying industry ; and that, with the view of encouraging the fruit industry, it is highly desirable that an Act should be passed this session for the purpose of eradicating the codlin-moth, which at present threatens to ruin every orchard. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington. Wi, Eeilbt, Secretary.

Sm,— Canterbury, 12th June, 1891. I have the honour to inform you that the committee appointed to prepare a reply to your circular, dated the 27th May last, have, in accordance with their instructions, done so. The association regret that, owing to the limited time within which their reply is called for, they are unable to deal as fully with the important subject upon which they are asked to express an opinion as its members would desire. The association beg, however, to make the following suggestions : — Dairy Produce. —Looking at the value of this industry as producing an important article of export without materially impoverishing the soil, and to the amount of employment which it is calculated to afford, as well as the extent to which judicious Government assistance in other countries has led to its development, the association believe that the dairy industry is deserving of every possible encouragement. They draw attention to the fact that in several adjoining colonies and other countries peripatetic dairy schools have been established, supplied with the most improved appliances, and worked by skilled experts, and which, visiting different local centres, afford more practical information than mere lectures can possibly do. They trust this question will receive the serious attention of the Government. Fruit-growing. —This is becoming an industry of great promise, well adapted to the colony, affording considerable employment, and likely to provide an increasing export. One branch of this fruit industry appeal's, however, to be threatened with very serious injury by the spread of the codlin-moth. In the other colonies this pest has been dealt with by stringent legislation, and unless the subject is taken in hand to prevent its further introduction and spread in New Zealand, the Association fear that the ravages of this pest will have a disastrous effect on the future of this branch of the fruit industry. The strong feeling on the subject in this part of New Zealand will be evinced by petition to Parliament, which, at the instance of the Canterbury Fruit-growers' Association, is now being generally signed. Irrigation. —This is a subject of far-reaching importance, and almost a necessity to a large portion of the Provincial District, of Canterbury. The district alluded to, while in great need of irrigation, appears to offer special facilities for its introduction. In the opinion of the association, however, it would hardly be wise to enter upon an undertaking of such magnitude without obtaining the best procurable information as to the cost of the work, the best mode of conducting it, and its probable results. The association would suggest that a Royal Commission of qualified persons should be appointed to inquire fully into the local conditions in Canterbury bearing on the question, as well as to ascertain what has been done in irrigation in adjoining colonies, and the probable cost and advantages likely to result from the introduction of this system here. Sheep Inspection. —While not expressing any opinion as to the general reorganization of the Sheep Department which has been effected by the Government the association feel bound to give expression to the general feeling of regret which is entertained in Canterbury at the withdrawal of Mr. Foster from the controlling position he has held in this district for so many years. They desire to bear testimony to his great energy and judgment, which, combined with his large experience and knowledge of the country, have been of the greatest service to the interests concerned. They venture to urge that Mr. Foster's services should be retained here. Lincoln College.—The association trusts that effect will be given without further delay to the report of the Commissioners appointed to inquire into the conduct and position of the Lincoln Agricultural College. They would draw attention to the fact that Bills for this purpose were introduced into last Parliament, but failed to become law. The position of the College, as disclosed in the report of the Commissioners, as well as the fact that the body in whom its management is now vested, is not representative of or connected with the agricultural industries, renders, in the opinion of this association, a change very desirable. The association is aware that since the date of the report certain alterations have been introduced into the system under which the College is managed. These appear, however, to be quite insufficient to remedy the evils pointed out, nor can the association consider the proposed institution of a Board of Advice to be a satisfactory or adequate solution of the question. This Board appears to have no executive functions, and is only to report to the governing body of Canterbury College, which, as already pointed out, has no qualifications for dealing with agricultural questions. Scholarships at Lincoln College. —The association believe that it would be very desirable, in the interests of improved and scientific agriculture, that an opportunity should be afforded to youths of exceptional industry and ability, who are desirious of following agricultural pursuits, to obtain the

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benefit of a training in scientific agriculture. In many cases the parents of such youths cannot afford to send their sons to the College. The association would therefore urge that scholarships should be established from the primary schools in the colony to Lincoln College, by means of which such youths might obtain the benefit of an advanced agricultural education. Instruction in Agriculture in Primary Schools. —The association beg to call the attention of the Government to the importance of introducing into primary schools in the country districts instruction in the elementary principles of agriculture. They believe this would be of far more practical value and interest to the majority of children in those districts than some of the subjects to which their time is now devoted. Hallway Carriage, of Agricultural Produce. —The association are aware that this is not under the control of the Government, but the subject is one of so great importance to agricultural and pastoral industries that they think that it should not be omitted from any reply to an inquiry as to their views on subjects affecting the welfare of these industries. Although the last harvest in this district was a deficient one, serious inconvenience was felt from the insufficiency of rolling-stock for the transport of grain, and an increase of this material is generally called for in the district. Lime. —A considerable amount of land in this part of New Zealand would be rendered vastly more productive than it now is by the liberal application of lime. At present the high cost of the article precludes its use except in a few instances, and in most cases the greater part of this cost consists of the railway freight. If it were practicable to considerably reduce such freight the use of this and other manures would be largely developed, and the prosperity of agricultural interests greatly promoted. The rates charged for the carriage of live-stock are at present so high as to place the owners at a great disadvantage in transporting their stock to market, and also to involve serious loss of revenue to the department. The rates charged are so much in excess of the cost of driving livestock by road that the freight on a large portion of such stock which would be sent by rail at more reasonable rates is now lost to the department. The Export of Frozen Meat. —A subject of large and growing importance to the colony has of late been considerably hampered by the insufficient supply of refrigerating-cars. The difficulties which such insufficiency will present to the growth of the trade are so serious as, in the opinion of the association, to call for an immediate remedy. They feel it their duty to call attention to the large amount of wool and other produce, the carriage of which is now lost to the railways in Canterbury in consequence of the railway-tariff being largely in excess of the rates at which such produce is being conveyed by traction-engines and waggons on ordinary roads. Quarantining Stock from England. —The association beg to suggest whether the introduction of valuable stud stock from England could not be facilitated without risk of introducing infectious diseases by making the ninety days quarantine to which stock are liable commence from the date of shipping instead of the date of landing. If this were done stock would probably be forwarded at a reduced rate by sailing-vessels, and the heavy expense of the present system of quarantine would be diminished. There are subjects which, if time permitted, would be urged on the consideration of the Government, but as the Minister presses for an immediate reply, the association content themselves at the present time with drawing his attention to the important questions above enumerated. They trust that it will not be considered a sufficient answer to their proposals that a compliance with them would involve some expense. Considerable expenditure has been, and is being, incurred by the colony in developing other industries of less importance than agriculture. In view of the fact that agriculture is the principal source of employment in New Zealand, and must be the chief factor in its permanent prosperity, the association believe that assistance should not be withheld from it, which has freely and wisely been granted to other industries of less general value and importance. I have, &c, S. Gabfobth, Chairman of Committee. The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington.

Sib,— 18th July, 1891. I am directed by the president of the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association to inform you that a circular has been received from Mr. E. Poster, Inspector of Stock for Canterbury, offering suggestions for the consideration of this association, with a view to suppressing the prevalence of sheep-stealing. Mr. Foster's letter was referred to a sub-committee. They now beg to forward the following suggestions for your consideration : (1.) That earmarks should be registered for one ear only. The two sexes to be marked in opposite ears. (2.) That it should be illegal to use an unregistered mark in the legal ear. (3.) That a heavy penalty be imposed for altering the breeders' earmark. (4.) That a list of earmarks (legal) be agreed upon, and included in a schedule as part of the Branding Act, power being reserved to register new earmarks, which shall not include tattooing or the affixing of metal clips, by Order in Council. The committee would also suggest that travelling sheep should bear some travelling mark, to be applied before leaving the sellers premises. I have, &c, M. Muephy, Secretary, Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association. The Hon. John McKenzie, Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Wellington.

Sib,— 18th July, 1891. I have the honour, by the direction of the president of the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association, to ask that you will institute inquiries as to whether New Zealand is now free from scab, and, if so, that you will be pleased to proclaim the colony clean,

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Several breeders of pedigree sheep are anxious to open up a trade with Victoria so soon as our sheep will be admitted. The president believes that he is correct in stating that two shearings have taken place since the last reported case of scab. 1 have, &c, M. Muephy, Secretary, Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association. The Hon. John McKenzie, Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Wellington.

Sic,— Christchurch, 11th August, 1891. I have the honour, by request of the Committee of the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association, to forward you the following resolution, which was unanimously passed at a meeting held yesterday : — Resolved, That the Committee of the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association respectfully submits to the Government that the taxation proposals as at present before the House are against the prosperity of the country, that they are likely to cause widespread disaster and suffering to all classes, and that this Committee strongly protests against these proposals. I have, &c, The Hon. J. McKenzie, Minister of Lands. M. Muephy, Secretary.

Sic, — Ash-burton, 25th August. 1891. I have the honour to hand you the enclosed copies of resolutions passed at a meeting held here for the purpose of forming a congress on agricultural education for Ashburton County, and to ask you to be good enough to give an expression of opinion with regard to State secondary education as embodied in resolution No. 4. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Education, Wellington. Charles Beaddbll. Resolution No. I. —That this meeting constitute an Ashburton Congress on agricultural education, holding annual meetings, and consisting of delegates from School Committess and private persons interested in State secondary education {as defined in Resolution No. 4), with the final object of getting a Bill through Parliament providing for such secondary education. Resolution No. 4. —That the Congress support a State scheme of secondary education, consisting of (a) technical schools in towns, including marine and mining where required, and domestic economy; (b) horticultural schools in suburbs, including forestry and dairying; (c) agricultural schools in farming districts.

Sib,— Leeston, 27th August, 1891. In compliance with the wishes of your department to have our opinions on subjects likely to benefit agricultural industries, we, the members of the Ellesmere Agricultural and Pastoral Association, have the honour to submit to you the following suggestions, which we trust you will see your way to encourage and carry into effect: — 1. Dairying. —This is one of the most important industries in the colony, and as it has been proved that the dairy produce of New Zealand can be shipped Home in the cool chambers and give a fair profit to the producer, and as there is an unlimited demand for the first quality, we trust your department will bring before the Government the great necessity of encouraging this industry by every means in their power. We think this would be effected by having cool chambers erected at the ports, and by having insulated cool chambers in trucks for taking the packages to the ports. We would further suggest that the Government appoint a practical expert to lecture in the different country districts on the best and most suitable methods of making and packing butter and cheese for shipment. 2. Fruit-growing has attained a gigantic size during the last few years in some parts of the colony. Shipments of apples, grapes, and pears have been sent Home, and in most instances, where care and knowledge of packing have been carefully carried out, this result, as a whole, has been satisfactory. We consider this industry will be of great importance to the small farmers, and we would suggest that Government procure the services of a thoroughly qualified horticulturist to send to California to there study the system of fruit-growing, and the various methods used to eradicate the different kinds of blight, and various kinds of insect pests ; and, further, that he should pay particular attention to the fruit-canning industry, and other matters pertaining to the export of fruit, gathering, packing, and the varieties best suited for that purpose. 3. The Fishing Industry. —We must impress on your department the importance of Government paying more attention to the development of this industry. We have a very large expanse of sea-coast, the waters of which abound with all kinds of delicate fish suitable for curing and canning, providing a profitable occupation for a large number of people if Government would undertake the establishment of experimental fishing stations. 4. Grain Statistics. —We would suggest to your department that it would be much better if the grain statistics were taken at an earlier date, more especially the acreage sown in the different crops. That the proprietors of threshing-machines should be required to forward at the end of each season the amount of grain threshed by them, so that the actual returns could be compared with the estimated ones. We have, &c, The Committee of the Ellesmere Agricultural and Pastoral Association. —B. Willis, President. The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington.

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Sir,— Doyleston, 10th September, 1891. I am instructed by jthe committee of the P]llesmere Agricultural and Pastoral Association to forward you the enclosed suggestions in reply to your circular asking for their opinions on agricultural subjects. The committee desired me to especially thank you for having accorded them the important (and by-them much valued,) privilege of holding direct communication with the Government. I must apologize for the length of time that has elapsed between the receipt of your circular and the dispatch of these resolutions. But the circular came at a time when no meetings are held by our association, and, after the annual meeting, the discussion was twice postponed. I have, &c, Geoegk Bennie, Hon. Sec. The Hon. J. McKenzie, Minister of Agriculture, Wellington.

Sic, — Courtenay Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Oourtenay, 14th July, 1891. I have the honour to inform you that a committee, appointed by the Courtenay Agricultural and Pastoral Society, to consider circular from you of the 27th May, have instructed the secretary to reply as follows : — 1. That this committee thank the Minister for evincing so large an interest in agricultural matters, looking upon the appointment of a Minister especially for agriculture, whose duties no doubt will be to consider and promote the large interests involved in agricultural and pastoral pursuits throughout New Zealand, as a step likely to further advance those interests more than has hitherto been the case. 2. That the committee consider any alteration in the incidence of taxation at the present time inexpedient, and the infliction of a special land-tax as directly opposed to the welfare of agricultural interests. 3. That the committee trust the Government will use their best endeavours to promote the all important question of irrigation, by disseminating information as to the various systems in vogue, and the cost of same in those centres where irrigation is practically carried out. Also the granting greater facilities for acquiring loans for special purposes (such as irrigation) extending over longer periods, as they consider the benefits by such works will be more essential to the future than the present generation, and that the Loans to Local Bodies' Act might be amended in this respect. 4. That the committee are of opinion that the small-bird nuisance is likely to require further legislation, making the law more compulsory in its action, as well as to regulate the days on which special efforts should be made by every farmer to eradicate or minimise this pest. The County Councils should also have power to levy rates for such purpose without the restrictions implied in the present Counties Act. 5. That in the interest of agriculture scholarships should be instituted enabling boys in our primary schools to compete for such scholarships, and thus working in onr primary school system with the School of Agriculture at Lincoln, thereby popularising that institution and making it of practical value to the people of New Zealand, and not as now, only a benefit to those who can afford to send their sons to college, also that elementary agricultural science should be included in the syllabus of primary schools. 6. That the committee are desirous of pointing out that the railway rates are excessive on the carriage of stock and wools. That the late small concessions made by the Commissioners in the tariff will have no effect in stopping the present enormous road tariff by traction-engines, and the driving of stock by road; and that those concessions will not prevent the great loss of revenue to our railways, as producers will still forward their produce by the cheapest modes, —viz., by tractionengines, and drive their sheep instead of using the railway. We should like to draw 7 the attention of the Minister to the insufficiency of rolling-stock, and the advisability of encouraging farmers to build sheds at private sidings by reducing the present siding rates to a nominal cost. 7. The committee suggest that owners of cross-bred sheep should be compelled to dip on or before the Ist June in each year. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington. G. Bedfoed, Secretary.

Sic, — Timaiu Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Timara, 14th July, 1891. I have the honour, by direction, to forward you the following resolutions which have been passed by this Association in reply to your invitation by circular of the 27th May, a copy of which it states has been sent to all kindred societies throughout New Zealand: — 1. (a) That this association strongly protest against the proposal of the Government to specially tax land, as the members object to being singled out for special taxation ; (b) they also recommend to the Government to alter the quarantine law, so that the date of quarantine should date from the time stock are on board ship at the port of sailing; (c) that this association endorse and approve of the action taken by the Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association with regard to the management of the Lincoln School of Agriculture. 2. That it be represented to the Government that the railage rate for carrying sheep is excessive, more especially in store sheep. The first thousand (thirteen trucks) being charged £2 18s. 9d. for the first one hundred miles, arid for each additional truck £1 10s. per one hundred miles, and all after that at 3d. per truck per mile. This association considers the whole should be charged at the latter price only, 3d. per truck per mile. We would also point out that all manures, including lime, should be carried at the lowest rates possible.

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3. The committee recommend that the Act relating to changing earmarks be put into force, and that any person changing an earmark be liable to a fine not exceeding £ . Also, that the Government should appoint a stock ranger to ba paid out of stock-tax for each county, and two veterinary surgeons for each Island, they to ba stock inspectors also. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Welligton. J. W. Stubbs, Secretary.

North Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Oamaru. Sir,— 25th July, 1891. I have the honour to forward to you a copy of resolutions passed at a meeting of the committee of the association, being in response to your invitation to them to give their views on any subject relating to the welfare of the agricultural and pastoral industries, contained in your circular memorandum of the 27th May, 1891. I have, &c, The Hon. John McKenzie, Minister of Agriculture. J. Chubch, Secretary.

Resolutions passed by the Committee of the North Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association. 24th July, 1891. That the committee of this association are pleased with the action of the Minister of Agriculture in consulting the various bodies representing the agricultural and pastoral industries, asking them for suggestions relating to anything that will promote the prosperity of such pursuits ; and desire to tender their thanks for the interest he evinces in endeavouring to elicit the opinions of those connected with these important industries. That in response to his invitation to express suggestions this committee are of opinion,— 1. That the sheep rate of 2s. per 100 is excessive, and would suggest that the rate be reduced to such an amount as would cover the cost of inspection, and that the balance, if any, be handed over to the county funds. 2. That the subsidy to the San Francisco service should be abolished, as the fact of subsidising shipping to and from America is frequently most injurious to the interests of agriculturists, by enabling America to compete in the grain-markets of Australia, while there is no corresponding benefit of trade with that country. 3. That the duties upon grain and agricultual products, and also those upon timber, should be abolished, as the former are simply inoperative from excess of production over consumption in the colony, and the latter offer a premium for the destruction of our forest trees, while they increase the cost of all improvements upon farms where timber is used, and the farmers are thus made to pay, iv addition to the special land-tax, an increased price for timber. 4. That the railway rates for the conveyance of live-stock should be reduced to the lowest possible figure, especially for store stock. 5. That the petition of the Oamaru Harbour Board should be acceded to, inasmuch as the forced competition of the railway is most prejudicial to the owners and occupiers of land in the North Otago District, as they are rated compulsorily for the maintenance of the harbour, and the Oamaru Harbour is the natural outlet for the products of the district. 6. That it is desirable that arrangements should be made with the Railway Commissioners for the conveyance of judges to and from all agricultural shows free of charge, as the payment of such an expense is a heavy burden upon all agricultural associations that are universally acknowledged to be benefitting to the agricultural and pastoral industries. 7 That the Sailway Commissioners be asked to reduce the short-distance rates on the railways for the carriage of grain and other agricultural products to the lowest possible figure, as carriage of such products has been done for a long time alongside of a railway-line by farm drays and waggons. J. Chukch, Secretary.

Sin, —- Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Dunedin, 25th June, 1891. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your circular memorandum of the 27th May, and to enclose herein the resolutions passed by this association at a meeting held on the 24th instant, called to consider the same. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington. Sydney James, Secretary.

Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Dunedin. Resolved, That it is of great importance to the farming community to have the Customs returns of the exports to foreign ports published regularly, as is done in the Australian Colonies, and that the Hon. the Minister of Agriculture be respectfully urged to have this done in future. 2. That greater expedition should be used in publishing the agricultural returns, which, as a rule, are collected iv February, and are seldom published till June, after the greater portion of the grain has been exported. 3. That, as this association did not receive the letter of the Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, which was dated the 27th May, until the 15th June, when Parliament was already in session, they had not an opportunity of thinking over suggestions bearing on the welfare of the agricultural community as fully as they would have wished to. Under the circumstances, they content themselves by endorsing the resolutions passed by the Canterbury association as regards dairy produce and the rates for railway carriage, and urge the Hon. the -.Minister to endeavour to carry into effect as soon as possible the recommendations made therein.

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Sic,— Waitahuna, Ist July, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of the Waitahuna Farmers' Club, to acknowledge receipt of your circular memorandum of the 27th May, requesting them to communicate their views on any subject relating to the welfare of the agricultural and pastoral industries. lam further directed to state that the club are of opinion that the farming community are to bo congratulated on having at length a "department to watch over their interest, and on having a Minister in charge who is practically acquainted with their requirements. They will avail themselves of his kind permission to communicate with him on any subject that the club may deem worthy of his consideration. I have, &c. James Moggath, Secretary, Waitahuna Farmers' Club.

No. 2. Sic,— Stock Department, Wellington, 11th April, 1891. The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, having been requested to legislate, re the yearly licensing of stallions, is anxious to obtain an expression of opinion thereon. lam therefore directed to ask you to kindly place the matter before your committee, and advise me of the result of their deliberations. I have, &c, The Secretary, . John D. Bitchie, Chief Inspector of Stock.

BEPLIES TO ABOVE CIRCULAR. Deae Sic, — Auckland, 26th June, 1891. I have the honour to forward you copy of resolution, re proposed tax on stallions, carried unanimously at a large meeting of the association. I have, &c, Aethue Atkin, Hon. Sec, Auckland Provincial Agricultural Association. The Hon. J. McKeime, Minister of Lands.

Resolved, That, in the opinion of this association, it is doubtful whether the taxing of stallions will be of any material benefit to the breeders of horses, and, unless great caution is exercised, will lead not only to an increase of officials, but will probably be harassing in its effects on country settlers.

Sic,— Office Whangarei Farmers' Club, Whangarei, 29th May, 1891. I have the honour to hereby acknowledge receipt of your memorandum of the 2nd instant, with the enclosed circular attached thereto. According to your request I called a meeting of the above club on the 21st instant, when there was a large attendance. The question was fully gone into, when the following resolution was unanimously adopted—namely : " That, in the opinion of this club, all stallions should be licensed at not less than ten guineas each, and that it be necessary for all such horses to undergo a veterinary examination by a duly-qualified vet., and that the result of such examination be printed cm the advertising cards of such horse." Club consists of seventy-five members. I have, &c, J. Melville Guilding, Secretary and Treasurer, Whangarei Farmers' Club. Grattan Cooke, Esq., Stock Inspector.

Sim, — 3rd June, 1891. I have the honour to inform you that the Mangere Farmers' Club, at a meeting held on Tuesday, the 26th May, passed the following resolution, which I am instructed to forward to you in reply to your circular of the 20th April:— Resolved, That this club is of opinion that stallions should be licensed, and that the fees for service shall not be recoverable by law for unlicensed stallions ; and that the license fees so collected be handed to the agricultural and pastoral association of the province. I have, &c, John C. Hubbaed, Secretary, Mangere Farmers' Club. J. D. Bitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock Department, Wellington.

Sic, — Waikato Farmers' Club, Cambridge, 29th May, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of the chairman of the above club, to convey to you the following resolution re the licensing of stallions carried at our last meeting:— Resolved, That this club is in favour of a tax on all entire horses of two years old and upwards, native horses included, only upon the understanding that such tax will be used exclusively in providing premiums for first-class stallions to stand in central districts at fixed fees. I have, &c, Maetin Butlee, Secretary Waikato Farmers' Club. J. D. Bitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

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Deae Sir, — Hamilton, 22nd June, 1891. I have applied to Mr. Oldham for a copy of circular re proposed tax on stallions, and he informs me that he has not received any, and knows nothing of such a document. I have to inform you that at a meeting of the club, held on Monday evening, the 22nd June, the following resolution was passed with only one dissentient: —■ Boeolved, This club views with alarm the proposed tax on stallions, and fails to see that it will improve our horses under existing circumstances, and objects most emphatically to the tax as an undue interference with the liberty of the subject. Will you please forward to Chief Inspector of Stock. I have, &c, The Inspector of Stock, Auckland. G. W. Baeton, Honorary Secretary.

Sic,— New Plymouth, 9th May, 1891. I have to acknowledge receipt of your circular of the 11th instant, with reference to the yearly licensing of stallions, and beg to inform you that the matter was considered at a committee meeting of the Taranaki Agricultural Society held this date, when the following resolution was. passed:— Besolved, That in the opinion of the committee it is not advisable to license stallions. I have, &c, Chief Inspector, Stock Department, Wellington. C. S. Mills, Secretary.

Sic, — Napier, Hawke's Bay, Ist May, 1891. Eeferring to your circular of the 11th of April, re the yearly licensing of stallions, I have the honour to inform you that at a meeting of this society, held this day, the following resolution was carried unanimously :-- Besolved, That this society is favourable to licensing all entire horses, and reaffirms the following resolution, which was passed at a meeting of the society held on the 3rd May, 1891 : " That this society recommends Ministers to introduce a Bill during the next session of Parliament to impose a fee of £10 on all entire horses of two years old and upwards after the Ist November of each year; fees so collected to be applied by way of premiums to all sire horses within such district; the amount of premiums to be awarded according to the decision of the judges, subject to regulations that may be drawn up for the purpose." I have, &c, William Beilby, Secretary, Hawke's Bay Agricultural and Pastoral J. D. Eitchie, Esq., Wellington. Society.

Deae Sik, — Wellington Agricultural and Pastoral Association, 12th June, 1891. Be taxing stallions : I am instructed by my committee to write you upon the above, stating that they decline to recommend the taxing of stallions by Government in New Zealand. John D. Eitchie, Esq., I have, &c, Government Buildings, Wellington. W. Heney Dat, Secretary.

Wairarapa and East Coast Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Sic, Carterton, 25th April, 1891. At a meeting of this society held to-day I was instructed to inform you that this society see no reason to recommend legislation with the view to the yearly licensing of stallions as, suggested by the circular from the Minister of Agriculture. J. D. Eitchie, Esq., Yours, &c, Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington. E. W. Dokset, Secretary.

Deae Sik, — Palmerston North, 15th June, 1891. I have the honour to inform you that at a small meeting of my committee (only eight being present) on Saturday last your circular, re the yearly licensing of stallions, was discussed, and it was resolved to recommend that a yearly tax on stallions should be imposed. Yours, &c, CO. Miles, Secretary, Manawatu and West Coast Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Palmerston North. J. D. Bitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Sic, — Wanganui, Ist May, 1891. In reply to your circular of the 11th April I have the honour to convey to you herewith copy of a resolution which has been carried by the Wanganui Agricultural and Pastoral Association, subject, of course, to the approval of the Minister of Agriculture. The resolution is as follows : —■ Besolved, That all entires in the Wanganui district—that is, between the Waitotara and Eangitikei Eivers, be licensed at a fee of ten guineas each, and that no owner can recover fees for unlicensed horses. That it be necessary for all unlicensed horses to bear on their advertising cards the result of a veterinary surgeon's examination, to be made by a duly-qualified veterinary surgeon, 2—H. 39.

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and that the fees bo collected by the agricultural society, and, after paying veterinary exp3nses, used by the society for the purpose of applying them as prizes for horses in such classes as the society may think fit. The appointment of surgeon was relegated to your department. Yours, &c, Freeman B. Jackson, Chairman. J. D. Bitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock, Stock Department, Wellington.

Sic, — Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association, 13th May, 1891. Eeferring to your circular, re the taxing of stallions, I beg to inform you that the matter was discussed at the last meeting of committee, when the following resolution was adopted : — Besolved, That this committee is of opinion that the appointment of a department for the taxing and the inspection of stallions at the present is inopportune. John D. Eitchie, Esq., I have, &c, Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington. M. Mubphy, Secretary.

Sib, — Courtenay Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Courtenay, 16th June, 1891. In reply to circular of the 11th April, in re the licensing of stallions, I have the honour to inform you that our society sympathizes with the object desired to be obtained by the breeding from a superior class of horses, but are not in favour of a tax on stallions at present. I have, &c, Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington. G. Bedford, Secretary.

Sic, — Timaru Agricultural and Pastoral Association, 24th June, 1891. In reply to your circular of the 11th April, the Timaru Agricultural and Pastoral Association resolve as follows : " That this association recommend that a tax should be paid on all entires over three years old used for stud purposes, with the understanding that the fees are to be returned to the association in whose district the fees are raised." Other circulars received from the Minister of Agriculture will be considered and replied to at an early date. I have, &c, John D. Eitchie, Esq., J. W. Stubbs, Secretary. Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Sib, — Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Dunedin, 29th April, 1891. At a meeting of the association, specially convened for to-day to consider your circular of the 11th instant, it was unanimously resolved, " That, in view of the fact that the horse stock of Otago has unquestionably deteriorated of late years, this association is of opinion that legislation in the direction of an annual license fee on stallions would benefit breeders of horses and farmers generally. They would recommend that an annual fee, not less than £30, should be imposed on all entire horses used for the stud purposes, ponies under fourteen hands half price. That the amount so raised should be appropriated for the purpose of giving prizes to the respective class of horses which pay the tax, at the agricultural and pastoral association's show in the district where the money is raised." I may say that the meeting was a representative one, and that several owners of stallions were present or represented. I have, &c, J. D. Eitchie, Esq., Sydney James, Secretary. Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Sib, — North Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Oamaru, 9th July, 1891. I am instructed by the committee to inform you that the resolution passed some time ago, and a copy of which I forwarded to you on the 12th ultimo, approving of the principle of licensing stallions, was, at a full meeting held yesterday, almost unanimously received. You will, therefore, now understand that this association does not approve of the proposal. I am, &c, John D. Eitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock. J. Chuech, Secretary.

gut,— North Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Oamaru, 12th June, 1891. In reference to your circular of the 11th April in connection with the yearly taxing of stallions I have to forward you a copy of a resolution passed by my committee :— Besolved, That this association approves of the principle of licensing stallions, and request that the Legislature take steps to give effect to the principle. Although the resolution was passed at a large meeting I think it right to mention that it was only so passed by the casting-vote of the Chairman. The opinion of the meeting being almost equally divided. I am, &c, John D. Ritchie, Esq., J. Chuech, Secretary. Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

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Sir,— Waitahuna, 26th May, 1891. I have the honour to inform you that your circular of the 11th April, requesting the opinion of the Waitahuna Farmers' Club re the yearly licensing of stallions, was duly received and laid before the club at its meeting on the 25th May. I am instructed by the club to state in reply that they are not in favour of taxing stallions, as they are of opinion that it would be an indirect tax upon the farming community, from which they would derive little or no benefit. It would be the means of excluding many useful animals now in use, and place the trade in the hands of a few, who would alone reap any benefit to be derived from the proposed measure. I have, &c, James Moggath, Secretary, Waitahuna Farmers' Club. John D. Eitchie, Chief Inspector of Stock, Welllington.

Sib,— Waitati, 30th May, 1891. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated the 11th April, 1891, and in reply I am instructed to forward you the following copy of a resolution adopted at a committee meeting of the Blueskin Agricultural and Pastoral Society held this evening. Besolved, That this association does not consider it desirable to legislate in the direction indicated, being of opinion that the breeders of horses are quite competent to select the most suitable stallions for their mares, and are also of opinion that the suggested license fee would be very injurious to residents in sparsely settled districts. I have, &c, Alexandeb Watson, Secretary, Blueskin Agricultural and Pastoral Society. The Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Sib,— Naseby, 11th May, 1891. Your circular, dated the 11th April, re tax on stallions, duly to hand. There has been no meeting of my committee since receipt thereof, nor will there be any for some weeks. However, the matter has already been considered by our association, and the following resolution unanimously agreed to: — Besolved, That this association join with the Hawke's Bay Agricultural and Pastoral Association in urging the Government to introduce a Bill to enable the Government to impose an annual fee of £10 on all entire horses of three years and upwards after the Ist November in each year, the ago of such horses to date from the Ist August. All fees so collected to be given as annual prizes to sire horses standing in the district in which the fee is levied. Trusting the above conveys all the information you desire. I am &c, E. E. Indee, Secretary, Maniatoto Agricultural and Pastoral Association. J. D. Eitchie, Esq., Stock Department, Wellington.

Dbae Sir,— Stirling, 6th June, 1891. Your circular of the 11th April, re yearly licensing of stallions, was laid before the Clutha and Matau Agricultural and Pastoral Association at the committee meeting held yesterday. After considerable discussion the following resolution was agreed to : — Besolved, That this society is in favour of licensing fees being imposed on stallions, provided such fees be paid to the various local agricultural societies, to be offered by them as premiums for the best entire horses travelling in the respective districts. Yours, &c, H. Cameron, Secretary, Clutha and Matau Agricultural and Pastoral Association. J. D. Eitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Sib, — Tokomairiro Farmers' Club, Milton, 2nd June, 1891. Yours to hand, re licensing stallions, was laid before a meeting of committee on the 2nd June, 1891. It was resolved that the time has not arrived for licensing stallions, as it would be at present detrimental to the interest of farmers to do so. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Wellington. James Inglis, Secretary.

Sib, — Waihemo Mains, Palmerston, 7th July, 1891. In reply to your circular, with reference to yearly licensing of stallions, I have to inform you that the Palmerston and Waihemo County Agricultural and Pastoral Association declared themselves to be in favour of a tax on stallions, such tax not to exceed £20, and the amount of tax so raised to go to the funds of the agricultural and pastoral association in the district in which the horse travels. Yours, &c, J. D. Eitchie, Esq. Thomas Muir, Honorary Secretary.

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Extract from letter, dated the 9th July, 1891. At a well attended meeting of the Winton Agricultural and Pastoral Association, held the 4th July, it was resolved, "This meeting think it desirable to ask the Government, through you, to have veterinary surgeons appointed to inspect all entire horses travelling, to prevent unsound and diseased-horses from serving mares." A. Liddell, Secretary, Winton Agricultural and Pastoral Association

Dear Sir,— Thornbury, 19th May, 1891. At a meeting of the general committee of the Western District Agricultural and Pastoral Association, held on the 18th instant, I was instructed to inform you that your circular, re the licensing of stallions, was considered, and that this association express its opinion that it is unwise for the Government to take action in the matter. I have, &c, B. Hancock, Secretary, Western District Agricultural and Pastoral Association. J. D. Eitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Sir, — Southland Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Invercargil, 18th May, 1891. I have the honour to acknowledge your circular of the 11th ultimo, re imposing a yearly tax on stallions. This letter was considered at the yearly meeting of this association held on the 16th instant, when the proposal did not meet with any support, and was regarded as an unnecessary interference with the principles of freetrade. But, at the same time, it was resolved to recommend the Government to grant bonuses in each provincial district for the best draught and thoroughbred stock, such bonuses to be awarded by the various agricultural and pastoral societies in such districts. I am, &c, The Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington. Eobbet Cuthbertson, Secretary.

No. 3. (Circular Memorandum). Head Office, Live-stock Department, Wellington, 26th May, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of the Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, to forward herewith copy of a communication received from the Oceanic Steamship Company, of San Francisco, drawing attention to the regulation anent the importation into the United States of live-stock from New Zealand and the Australian Colonies. I should esteem it a favour if you would lay this before your society for an expression of its opinion and suggestions thereon. The Secretary, . John D. Eitohie, Chief Inspector of Stock.

Enclosures. Dear Sir, — Oceanic Steamship Company, San Francisco, 3rd April, 1891. We enclose herewith some regulations in regard to the entry into the United States free of duty of animals specially imported for breeding purposes. We sent you similar regulations on this subject some time ago, but, as there seems to be a misunderstanding of the law by shippers, we have prepared this information for your guidance from instructions issued by the Government in as concise form as possible. From information obtained here we learn there is no stud-book or herd-book kept in New Zealand or Australia. There is an Australian stud-book printed by Mr. Yuille, of Melbourne, but it is not official as far as we can learn. Dr. Eoss arrived from New Zealand per last steamer, bringing two thoroughbred mares, and, after considerable delay and trouble, he succeeded in having the mares admitted free of duty, but he will have to obtain a certificate of pedigree, &c, to cancel certain bonds given for their conditional free entry. He suggests that a stud-book and herd-book be immediately established in New Zealand and Australia, and thinks the most appropriate keeper of such books of record would be the secretary of the agricultural and pastoral association, who could issue the necessary certificates under seal, charging a small fee for the same. As Dr. Eoss has had practical experience in importing animals under the new law, his suggestion seems to be a good one. The late tariff law was framed by legislators living in the eastern section of this country, and they have avidently made the law to conform to records kept in England and other European countries, without any modifying provisions for other countries, and, in order to comply with the law as strictly as possible, a stud-book and herd-book should be established and a keeper appointed without delay. Copies of the regulations enclosed will be forwarded to Australia by other parties interested, and we hope you will give publicity to these rules, that all concerned may be properly informed. In the case of certain animals claimed by the importers to be pure bred imported from Canada, the Secretary of the Treasury, on the 31st January, 1891, ruled that duties must be collected, unless the importer could produce a ..certificate of registry from a book of record. As the importer could not produce the required certificate, because no book of record for that breed was kept, and as the fact that such book of record was not kept, could not abrogate the provisions in the statute, the Secretary refused to order a refund of the duties.

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We hope that the stud-book and herd-book will be established at once, as it will facilitate matters very much at this end of the line. The regulation (formerly issued) requiring a certificate of purity of breed from the breeder of the animals has been abolished by the Secretary of the Treasury, and such certificate will no longer be required. Yours, &c, J. D. Speeckles and Beothers, General Agents, Oceanic Steamship Company. Thomas Henderson, junior, Esq., Auckland, New Zealand.

Eegulations eefeered to above. Animals for Breeding Purposes. The United States Tariff Act, of the Ist October, 1890, makes a radical change in the former law in regard to the entry free of duty of animals specially imported for breeding purposes, and, in order that the law may be uniformly and properly complied with, the following information is given for the benefit of all concerned. The law reads : " Any animal imported specially for breeding purposes shall be admitted free, provided that no such animal shall be admitted free unless pure bred of a recognised breed, and duly registered in the book of record established for that breed; and provided further that certificate of such record, and if the pedigree of such animal shall be produced and submitted to tha Customs officer, duly authenticated by the proper custodian of such book of record. The Secretary of the Treasury may prescribe such additional regulations as may be required for the strict enforcement of this provision." Therefore in all cases of importation and entry of animals claimed to be exempt from duty under the present tariff laws the importer must produce to the Collector of Customs at the time of entry, in addition to the requisite invoice duly authenticated by the United States Consular officer, a certificate from the keeper of record certifying that such record is kept and showing a proper pedigree of the animals, which, in the case of horses, should refer to the English or American studbook, and in the case of cattle to the different herd-books, such as Shorthorn, Herefordshire, Devon, Ayrshire, &c, as the case may be. If there be no stud-book kept for draft-horses such as Clydesdales, Percheron, Suffolk Punches, &c, or if there be no herd-book for Herefords, Shorthorns, or other recognised thoroughbred cattle,, such books of record ought immediately to be established, and a custodian or keeper of such book of record showing pedigrees, &c, should at once be appointed and authorised to issue certificates under seal from such stud-book or herd-book. A strict compliance by shippers with the above regulations will save delay, trouble, and expense to the importer when the animals arrive.

EEPLIES TO ABOVE CIECULAE. Deae Sib, — Wellington Agricultural and Pastoral Association, 12th June, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of the committee of the above association, to answer yours of the 26th ultimo. The committee consider the stud- and herd-books of New Zealand sufficient, as they are recognised by all breeders, agricultural and pastoral associations, and racing-clubs. They also wish it to be noticed that no stud-books are under Government control or jurisdiction in England or Australia. They suggest that this intimation be sent to the American Government. My committee also wish it to be known that Dr. Eoss never applied for two certificates, if he had done so he could have received them. I have, &c. John D. Eitchie, Esq., W. H. Day, Secretary. Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Dear Sic, — Palmers ton North, 15th June, 1891. I beg to acknowledge receipt of your circular of the 26th May, re the importation of stock into the United States. The same was laid before my committee on Saturday last, and I was instructed to draw your attention to the fact that a stud-book, a shorthorn herd-book, and a herdbook for breeds other than shorthorn are already in existence in this colony, and this society considers these stud-books should be official, and they also consider this an excellent time to establish a flock-book for Eomney Marsh and Lincoln sheep. Yours, &c, J. D. Ritchie, Esq., C. C. Miles, Secretary. Chief Insbector of Stock, Wellington.

Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Bra,— Ghristchurch, 6th July, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of this association, to acknowledge receipt of a circular forwarded by the Live-stock Department, Wellington, drawing attention to a communication received (a copy of which has been received from the Oceanic Steamship Company, San Francisco) touching the regulations affecting the importation of live-stock from Nev/ Zealand and the Australian Colonies with the United States of America. You are aware that animals specially imported for breeding purposes are admitted duty free, but their pedigrees must be undoubted. 3—H. 39.

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The document referred to contains the following statement: "From information obtained here we learn there is no stud-book or herd-book kept in New Zealand or Australia. There is an Australian stud-book printed by Mr. Yuille, of Melbourne, but it is not official as far as we can learn," and suggests that a stud-book and herd-book be immediately established in New Zealand. I am directed to draw your attention to the fact that our society has been publishing a stud- and herd-book for several years past. We have a draught-horse stud-book, a herd-book for shorthorn cattle, and one for other breeds, copies of which I am instructed to forward for your inspection. From the accompanying circular you will observe that we are endeavouring to get Australian breeders to join us in publishing a herd-book (general). Our association consider the matter of considerable importance, believing, as they do, that sooner or later an important trade will be done in pedigrees, horses, cattle, and sheep with the eastern States of the United States, especially so as our colony enjoys the enviable position of being the only one which is absolutely free from any kind of stock disease. The committee, therefore, trust that you will give the matter your favourable consideration, and that you will cause measures to be taken to inform the American authorities officially of the existence of properly-constituted studand herd-books in this colony. Mr Elliot, of Nelson, publishes a light-horse stud-book, which is recognised by the Canterbury Jockey Club. I may add that copies of the books above referred to have been sent to the Oceanic Steamship Company. I have, &c, M. Mubphy, Canterbury Agricultural and Pastoral Association. The Hon. the Minister of Lands, Wellington.

Sib, — Waitahuna, Ist July, 1891. I have the honour, by direction of the Waitahuna Farmers' Club, to acknowledge receipt of your circular memorandum of the 26th May, enclosing a communication from the Oceanic Steam Shipping Company, of San Francisco, relative to the importation of pure-bred stock to the United States free of duty, and also recommending the establishing of a herd- and stud-book for New Zealand and the Australian Colonies. I am instructed to state, in reply, that this club fully approve of the suggestion contained in your letter, and are of opinion that it is absolutely necessary in the interest both of shippers and breeders that a herd- and stud-book should be established in New Zealand and Australia, and that the Metropolitan agricultural and pastoral societies should take the necessary steps to get it brought about as soon as possible. Any assistance that can bo pointed out that this club has it in its power to afford will be most cheerfully given. The Minister of Agriculture has earned the thanks of both breeders and shippers in bringing the subject under their consideration so early, and the club trust his efforts in this direction will have a successful result. I have, &c, Jambs Moggath, Secretary, Waitahuna Farmers' Club. J. D. Eitchie, Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington.

Dear Sib, — Tokomairiro Farmers' Club, Milton, 18th July, 1891. Your circular of the 26th May was laid before a meeting of the above club, held on the loth instant, when it was resolved, " That this club heartily approves of the proposal to establish a stock- and herd-book for New Zealand, as set forth by the Oceanic Steamship Company in a circular, a copy of which has been received from the Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington; and, also, that the existence of such a record would be of great value to breeders and others in the colony, and that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Chief Inspector of Stock." I have, &c, James Inglis, Secretary. John D. Eitchie, Esq., Chief Inspector of Stock, Wellington. Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, nil; printing (1,200 copies), £8 Us.

By Authority : Geoeqb Didsbury, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB9l. Price 6d.