THE FARMERS’ CAUSE.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 198, 28 August 1901, Page 2

THE FARMERS’ CAUSE.

PROPOSED COMBINATION FOR DISTRIBUTION.

A FIZZLJ

(Special to Tbiks.) Wellington, last night. Sonic sort of attempt was made this afternoon to secure an effective combination jf the producers and distributors of the colony’s pro luce, hut it was not particularly successful. A circular had been sent round by Mr F. T. Moore, secretary of the Producers’ Union, whien is in opposition to the New Zealand Farmers’ Union, convening a conference —(a) to consider the advantages of concerted action on tho part of all dealers and agents that sell and distribute North Island produce; (b) to formulate a scheme or schemes whereby all concerned in the sale and distribution of produce may secure tho best possible realisation ; (c) to create a representative body or committee which will administer the opening up of whatever scheme or schemes may be devised, and to promote tho formation of a similar body in London that will superintend operations in the British markets. The attendance was limited to the convener, a member of Parliament, three representatives of local Freezing Companies, and the Agricultural Department, avowedly as lookers-on, and two or three others—eight in all. Mr Moore submitted a schcmo for the setting up of a Board of Commerce, consisting of the representatives of the farming, trading, and laboring portions of tho community and of the State, to administer the functions of the Department of Trade and Commerce. This, on the face of it, looked rather a slap in the eye for the present Minister for Trade and Customs, and though the Government and Freezing Company delegates did not say so, they evidently thought it. Tho proposal was carried on the votes of the mover and seconder. No one else voted. Then tho somewhat farcical nature of the proceedings appeared to strike the other delegates, who rather than let it go forth to the world that the principle of the establishment of commerce on the conditions named had been affirmed, even under existing conditions persuaded tho Chairman to accept another motion as an amendment, adjourning the Conference, and suggesting that if another is thought desirable it should be called by the Government, and embrace the wholo colony. This was agreed to, and so the Conference stands adjourned sine die. [By Telegraph—Press Association.]

As the result of a recent deputation which waited on the Premier, Mr Moore, Secretary of the Producers’ Union, convened a conference of producers and representatives of the meat export industry. The meeting was held to-day, and was attended by six persons, besides the convenor. The latter gentleman explained that he wanted to have a Board of Commerce appointed, which should take the disposal of all exports under its control; should, in fact, take over the control of the Department of Commerce and Industries. This Board should bo composed of Government nominees, labor representatives, and representatives of farming and trading communities. During a discussion which ensued, the opinion was expressed that the scheme seemed to lack much necessary detail, and to be somewhat vague. It was finally decided that consideration of the matter should be deferred until a later conference, which should be called by the State, and embracing representatives; of the whole colony.