Farmers Divided On Subsidy Scheme

Chronicle (Levin), 31 July 1948, Page 5

Farmers Divided On Subsidy Scheme

WELLINGTON, July 30. After a three hours' discussion to day, tho Doniinion eonference of Feder -lted Farmoi'S failed to reach a decision 011 the question of whether it desim i fertiliser subsidy scheme for niarginal 'aruls. The matter was the subjeet oi a long report to eonference, ineludcd in which were proposals fyom the Depart ment of Agriculture 011 the administra (ion of a subsidy should one be decided upon. Tlie-.-Deph.ri ment asked for a statement of tlie views of Federated Farmers on the proposals. The report stated that the Department had been informed that Federated Farmers' opinion was that unless and until there was a definite assurance tliat there would be adequate supplies of fertiliser for all land and an increas ing supply, it would be unwise tq em bark upon a venture wliich miglil create verv many difficulties. The De partment was informed, at the same tin-p, that the matter would be discuss ed by tlie annual eonference. The eonference hcard long argument against the pj'inciple of subsidies and in favour of some form of assistance for the development of hill country and deteriorated lands. No decision was reached on the subsidy proposal. but the eonference adopted a resolution nsl ing that the matter of relieving tlie lnrden of high costs of topdressin" hill country and deteriorated lands, be lef • to ihe hill country committee to report. to the Dominion Council after Ihe interim report of tlie Roval C0111tnirsion on the sheep industry is pub lished.