POVERTY BAY FARMERS’ UNION.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2109, 18 June 1907, Page 2

POVERTY BAY FARMERS’ UNION.

PROVINCIAL CONFERENCE. The annual conforonco of tlie Poverty Bay Farmors’ Union was hold at tlio Povorty Bay Farmors Club rooms yesterday. PROVINCIAL .EXECUTIVE. Prior to tlio conforonco a meeting of tlio Provincial Exocutivo was liokl at 11.30. Routine business was transacted to wind up affairs for tlio incoming Executive. BALANCE SHEET. On tlio motion of Mr. Chambers, booondod by Mr. Clayton, tho balance shoot for the year ended March olst, 1907, was adopted as follows: Recoipts: To balance brought forward, £43 53 6d; branch payments on members’ account, 1905-6, £34 7s 6d; account 1906-7. £l4 8s; £4B los 6d. Land Bill Fighting Timroto branch £5, Rakauroa £3 12s; £8 12s, total, £IOO 13s. Expenditure: By Colonial Secretary’s dues, £36 3s, provincial socrotary, £10; advertising, £5 6s; stationery, stamps, telegrams. and miscellaneous, £4 18s IUQ, pamphlets re permanent pastures, io 6s 8d; bank charge, 10s; total, £6O 4s 6d. Balance: Cash in bank, £4O Assets: Cash in bank, £4O 8s 6d; received for dues since 31st March, ',£23 ss; unpaid branch dues, estimated £5; total, £OB 13s 6d. Liabilities: Advertising, £4 12s 6d - secretary’s salary, £10; stamps, etc., £1 6s; audit fees, £2 2s; Colonial Exocutivo dues to June 11th, 1907,-£lB 15s; ditto, subscriptions to Land Bill Fund; total, £45 7s 6d. Balance of assets over liabilities, £23 BRANCH DUES.

Statement of dues received from branches: — ■ , *, . , Q Account, 1905-06.—Patutahi, U working members, £2 12s; Waimata, 18 members, 1 member m arroar, / honorary, £4 10s; Gisborne, 65 members, £l3 ; Tiniroto, 20 members, 1 m arrear, 6 honorary, £4 16s; Nuhalta, 16 members, £3; Motu, 5 members, £1 ss; Hangaroa, 16 members, £3 4s 6d; Tokomaru, 10 members, £2.; total. £34 7s 6d. Note.—Colonial levy o n . abovo remitted August 3rd, 1906, £ 1906-07.—Wbatatutu, IS members, 3 honorary, £3 18s; Motu, 23 members, 3.in arrear, 1 honorary, £3 6s; Tokomaru 9 members, £1 lbs ; Rakauroa, 17 members, £3 8s; total, £l4 Bs. Received since March olst. 1907: —Account, 1906-07: Motu, 9 members, 1 in arrear, £2 3s; Tintroto, 26 members, 5 honorary, £5 14s; Gisborne, 69 members £l3 16s; Patutahi, 8 members, £1 12s; total, £23 ’ss. Duo to Colonial Executive: March 31st, on 70 members at 2s and 4 at Is, £7 4s; June lltli, on 113 members at 2s and 5 at Is, £ll Ills; total, £lB 15s. THE CONFERENCE.

Tho conference opened at noon, when tho following delegates and representatives were present: Messrs W K Chambers, Provincial President (Patutahi); A. R„ Watson, VicePresident (Waimata); T. Elliott (Motu): A. Cameron (Gisborne); W. Lissant Clayton, Provincial Secretary (Tiniroto); T. Holden and W. D. Lysnar (Gisborne); J. Hutchinson (Rakauroa);' C. H. Bridge (Motu); W. D. S. Macdonald (Motu); J. A. Caesar (Ormond); an<L-tlio assistant secretary, Mr. A. Graham. MINUTES. Tho minutes of last conference were read and confirmed. PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS. The retiring President’s address was in tho following terms: It is my duty to briefly report the achievements for tho Union for the past year in this district. Among tho questions which were discussed at tho last Provincial Conference was that of mutual fire insurance. AVe - liave succeeded in affiliating with the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Fire Insurance, and with that Board’s consent have elected Mr. A. R. Watson to act as ono of the directors. I regret to; say, however, that this movement has not received tile support that might have been expected from the farmers, very few having effected risks with tlie Association. The Executive advertised that they were prepared to accept risks, and advised all Branches and endeavored in other ways to make it as widely known as possible, but very few of the farmers responded. . As suggested at the iast Provincial Conference, suggestions were made to Branches to set up committees in each locality to act together in fighting unjust valuations before the Assessment. Courts. The idea seemed to meet with the approval of branches, but I have been unable to learn of anv occasion where/it Las been acted upon. The perpetual agitation of tho Farmers’ Union here and throughout tlio colony that-there should be an alteration in the appointments of assessors to Assessment Courts so that ratepayers or local bodies should have the appointment of at least one, has, I am pleased to say, resulted in this concession being granted b’- the Government, The last Conference’s suggestion that the Colonial President should write a letter to the British press pointing out the scarcity of farm labor here and so to encourage emigration of the right sort, was found impracticable by tlie Colonial Executive, as such letters would have to be paid for and would be an item of very considerable expense. The proposal that this district should appoint a veterinarian and organiser has not, I regret to say, matured owing to tlus want of funds. The funds at the disposal of your Executive aro insufficient, and therefore it ivquld be necessary before we obtain such a man that either his salary shall be guaranteed or else that voluntary subscriptions should be collected. So far we nave not found sufficient farmers to help us in taking either of these two steps, but the matter will again come.before you for discussion to-day,and it is hoped that some practical result may bo arrived at.

The ,suggestion that an annual picnic should be held for the whole provincial district has fallen thrpugh owing to the fact that the season which would be suitable for picnics has been found to be Unsuitable for the farmers, as it happens to come in their busy time, although I am pleased to say a very successful effort was made in this way by the Motu Branch, which held a most enjoyable picnic at Motu, to which I and other members of the ExecuFive were invited. After the picnic a social evenin'l, was held and a few spoeches mad 6 on the work of the Union. It seems, to me that it would bp very desirable if other branches would endeavor to foster interest in the Union among the wives and daughters of farmers and the rising generation by holding these social functions, I very much deplore the apathv of the farming community with regard to the rural technical education. The vice-president, the provincial secretary ,and myself,- together with Mr. William Morgan, visited various branches and held meetings which apparently at the time "were enthusiastic, but unfortunately interest; was not sustained, and the movement received no practical support. As you are aware, the Provincial • Executive and the County Council had both guaranteed £SO towards the furtherance of this object, and the High School Board also indicated that they would lend all the assistance, financial and otherwise, in' their power. The Union are very much indebted to Mr. AVilliam Morgan for his efforts, and I can only regret that those efforts did nipt bring forth better results.

In spite of various resolutions and constant agitation on tile part of the Farmers’ Union tp promote the settlement of Maori lands, I regret to say that the settlement of these lands is not progressing with the rapidity we should like jn this district. There is no doubt that the last Act passed has promoted settlement to a Pertain extent but nevertheless it still leaves very much to bo desired, and the cost of acouirng lands under this Act frequently renders it prohibitive, especially when we consider the extraordinary value which is now being placed upon some of these lands, and it is borne in mind that rent has to be at 6 per cent, on these valuations. The Native Land Commission, which has just been set up, may possibly help matters and enable Parliament to arrive at some better solution of the native land question, but from the progress it has made hitherto I must confess that-1 feel sceptical. I regret to say that tjie arrangement made by the Farnjers r Union with the South British Accident Insurance Company to reduce tho rates of accident insurance to members of the Farmers’ Union fell through, and that the company found it was necessary to combine with the other companies in having a fixed tariff. Their action, however, it is'" pleasing to note, seems to have had tho effect of reducin' l, rates all round, as although a> tariff for all companies has since bee* l fixed, the tariff in farmers’ risks is on the whole lower. Your Executive had Mr, J, *N. Williams' very able_ pamphlet on permanent .pastures distributed among the branches of the Union, and kept a supply of copies on hand to be sold at a nominal price _ to any farmer who desired to obtain one. Strong resolutions hate reached

tlio Executive from tlio Gisborne and various other brandies in opposition to tlio principle of tlio present Land Bill, and I think wo may bo congratulated that tlio Farmers’ Union as a wholo has for once shown a practioally united front on this question, with the that tlio Government undoubtedly wavored on tlio question of the Bill and ultimately dropped it for tlio session. There is no doubt, 1 owing to tlio Farmers’ Union’s attitudo, that if it is reintroduced in the noxt sossion of Parliament, it will como boforo the House in an oxtremoly modified form. The opposition to the the Bill was exemplified in the two- bye-elections of Manakau and Taranaki, in both of which tlio Government were overwhelmingly defeated, mainly upon this issue. At tho instance of tlio Colonial Executive, a fund was started for fighting tho Land Bill, pamplielts were printed, which I have had distributed amonv all branches of the Union and throughout the Borough of Gisborne. Funds were invited from members,towards this fund, and roceived some response from individual mombers and branches in this district, but not quito as much as we should have liked, Tiniroto being the first branch to remit a cheque for this purpose. I would urge ail delegates to keep the new Land Bill prominently boforo their branches, when introduced into tho House, as only by continual„vigilanco can wo escape harassing .Legislation. The Executive deemed it advisable to issuo a circular to all branches of tho Union before this pamphlet arrived, stating wliat it considered was Union’s attitude upon this question. Mr. W. Lissant Clayton attended the last Colonial Conference at Wellington as your delegate, and he remained in Hnstings_at the request of the Executive to attond the meeting of the Hawke’s Bay Fanners’ Mutual Firo Insurance Board, and there arranged with tliom the details on which Poverty Bav could affiliate with them. In conclusion I confess that I have to deplore apathy throughout the district with regard to the Farmers’ Union. I can attribute this only to 1 two causes, tho first of which is the ! unparalleled prosperity which we are enjoying at tho present time, and secondly to the want of strength in the Farmers’ Union by its objection to taking a stronger attitude upon political questions. This has been moved and carried at every Provin-, cial Conference in this district, and I feel quite satisfied that it is of no value for the Farmers’ Union to simplv develop into a debating society if it has not power to show its teeth when necessary and to take strenuous action. All. previous conferences have emphasised this, at the same time pointing out that although the Union may take a strong political attitude, that does not necessarily .impW that it should take a party attitude, but it is folly to talk against legislation and measures which are opposed to tho farmers’ interests and then to vote for those who support them.' _ •' _

Supplementing his address, the President concluded bv saying the past year had not been a very good one as regarded the Union, owin«- to the apathy displayed in many quarters, but lie looked forward to a keener interest in affairs during the ensuincr year. Mr, Watson, Vice-President, moved the adoption of the report. Mr Macdonald queried whether the insurance contract with the South British Company had fallen through. He believed it was not so. Mr.. Clayton, provincial secretary, said lie was in a position to say the contract had fallen through. Members would find that the company would not accept risks at the tariff scale formerly proposed to the Farmers’ Union. Mr. Bridge said that as chairman and secretary of the Motu branch he had some knowledge of the matter. When the. South British Company offered their contract prices to the Farmers’ Union, the Motu branch, as well as all the other branches, was notified through the Executive, but tliev were unable to take the mattei

up at the time. ’■Some months afterwards apparently the other insurance companies were bringing force to bear against the South British, and at a conference the companies agreed upon a uniform tariff throughout the colon-. But before this was arranged, the Wellington manager of the company wrote to him (Mr Bridge), as well as to all other local agents he supposed, asking for a list of the names of all Union members who had already taken out policies or had indicated their intention of doing so. He sent in this list, and received a replv stating that, all the companies having in the meantime come to an agreement, only . those Farmers’ Union members whose names had been sent in would receive the benefit of the contract price, which would hold good for three years. He was pleased to say that he was still insuring men whose names were on that list at contract rates. Mr. Clayton agreed that any existin' contract would hold -ood, but the company would not nsure on the same terms anyone who was not on the list mentioned, and would not change any risk previously given under the contract price. Members would find they were not entitled, when a risk was given under contract rates; to make any change in the form of policy. Of course any farmer that had signed for three vears would have his policy maintained for that term at the same rate. Of course the company was bound in writing new business to adhere to the joint agreement arrived at bv all the insurance companies. The speaker mentioned that he did not think he had received any notification from the com - any such as Mr. Bridge referred to. Mr. Bridge added that the list he had sent in comprised 15 or 16 names. Up to the time of the correspondence he had only insured six or seven of those persons. The others had indicated their willingness to insure with the South British when existing policies ran out, or made some promise of the kind. He could not say what the company ruled as regarded, changes in risks, but he had never been notified that they would only reinsure under the advanced tariff. On the little insurance he had done under the contract rates, the Motu settlers

had saved fully £2O. Mr. Watson: The businesslike methods of the Motu people should have been copied by the other centres. Mr. Bridge mentioned that the company had refused transfers of policies from two settlers who had since sold out to newcomers.

Mr. Clayton seconded the adoption of the President’s report. He thought it covered pretty well all the work of the Farmers’ Union for the

year. He must say that he quite agreed with the President in deploring the apathy with which the Union had been confronted during the twelve' months. Possibly the Executive had been somewhat lax. He had noticed some little criticism levelled at the Executive for not holding meetings more freouontly, but this was mainly due to the branches —of course there were some active branches to which all credit was due — allowing interest to flag, and not sending forward business for the Executive to transact. When members of the Executive found so little to do they fell away in attendance, each man would say, ‘‘Oh, there is not much to do. They will bo aHe to get a quorum without me,” Mr Clayton went on to say that Messrs. El-

liott (Motu) and Hutchinson (Rakauroa), who had the longest distance to travel, held the record for attendance, and he thought tliev deserved all commendation for the interest they had shown. They may have missed one meeting but not more, beating those who were on the spot, including himself. JTe trusted the farmers of Poverty Bay would not allow the Union to languish because,, in his opinion, the time was approaching when their organisation would make'its power felt. Despite criticism as the Farmers-’ Union from a political standpoint, their united stand on the Land Bill showed what could be achieved. It was mainly due to the Farmers’ Union that the Government had dropped the Bill last Mission, (Applause.) The report was unanimously adopted. and on the motion of Mr. Lysnar, seconded by Mr. Caesar, the balance sheet (read at the Executive meeting) was taken as read, ELECTION OF OFFICERS.

Mr. Clayton moved, in accordance with the practice adopted at last conference, that the members of the retiring executive he allowed to speak and vote on ail matters excepting the election of officers. Mr. Hutchinson seconded. The Chairman did not - see the object. Mr. Clayton explained that actually only the delegates had any standing at the conference. He pointed out that- under other conditions it would be possible for 20 or 30 outside members: to come in and ‘‘swamp” the conference. The motion was carried. .'

Regarding the election of President, Mr. Chambers (retiring President) said he thought this was a position that should go round. It was not his intention to accept rc-nom-•nation, as in all probability he would be absent for three or four months tills year'. He had muc}) pleasure in proposing Mr. M atson, A mo-Presi-dent ,for the position. Mr. Cameron seconded. Mr. Clayton- ,in supporting the motion, said bo was quite satisfied all

tho executivo members and members generally throughout Poverty Pay would regret Mr. Chambers’ retirement, os ho had been an indefatigable worker for tho Union, and had spared neither time nor trouble in visiting branches. In hia position as Secretary he hud a personal knowledge of the retiring President’s valuable work. In Mr. Watson ho believed they would get a very able successor to Mr. Chambers, as he too was a man with plenty of energy. Mr. Watson was thereupon unanimously elected President, and escorted to the chair. . In acknowledging tho honor, Mr. Watson said lie would not have accepted nomination but for Mr. Chambois’ assurance that lie would be unable to accopt re-election. He would use his best endeavors to further the Union, and trusted to receive the same loyal support and co-ojieration that the executive and membors had accorded his predecessor. He anticipated that tho business would take up a good deal of bis'time this year, I and hoped, all working in accord, that their year’B record would prove satisfactory to all concerned. (Applause.) Mr. Clayton proposed Mr. Chambers as Vice-President. He would still be able to render good service in that position. Mr. Cameron seconded. Carried unanimously. Mr. Chambers said he wished to thank them for their kindly remarks concerning his past efforts. Ho would continue to assist the Union’s work to the best of his ability. Mr. Hutchinson nominated Mr. W. Lissant Clayton as delegate to the Colonial Conference, which will be held in Wellington some time next month. Mr. Cayton had acted .in that capacity lost year with great success, and ho considered the executive could not select a better man. Mr. McDonald seconded.—Carried.

Mr. Clayton, snea'king in acknowledgment, remarked jocularly that this position did not seem to be one sought after. Nevertheless he took it as a compliment to bo re-elected delogato and would certainly do his best. He recognised that- it would be his duty at the Colonial Conference to advocate to the host of his ability all resolutions emanating from this executive," even ’when they conflicted with his own personal views. It was agreed that the executive consist of 13 members, in addition to the President and Vice-President. The Chairman mentioned that the secretary and treasurer were appointed by the executive. Mr. Clayton was speaking in the capacity of a delegate. Mr. Clayton said the practice in electing the executive had been to elect delegates and branch representatives first, and then if the number were not made up to select representative men in the various parts of the district. Ho regretted that Tolaga Bay was not at present represented. Mr. Cameron moved the re-election

of the old executive, as they were exprienoed and representative men. One drawback to appointing outside men was that they were not able to attend regularly. Mr Chambers: We have had exceptions to that rule. So long as the quorum is not too large there will be nj difficulty. Mr. Cameron altered hiß motion to read that the delegates present be elected.

Seconded by Mr. Chambers and carried, thus electing Messrs. Hulchin-

non, Clayton, Chambers, Cameron, McDonald, and Watson. On the motion of Mr. Clayton, seconded .by Mr. McDonald, the following representatives were also elected: Messrs. T. Elliott, J. A. Caesar, W. I>. Lysnar, T. Holden, and C. H. Budge. For the remaining four seats, Messrs. Kent (Tiniroto), McNeil (Tolaga Bay), Hegarty (Mangatu), R. Hensen (Motu), Steele (Tahora or Wliarekopae), Wall (Waerenga-o-kuri), and Sainsbury (Hangaroa), were nominated. On a ballot being taken Messrs. Kent', McNeil, Sainsbury, and Steele were declared elected.

Upon resuming after the luncheon adjournment, the discussion on the remits was proceeded with.

THE FREEHOLD. “That this Conference of farmers place on record emphatically—that in the interests of the colony generally no legislation relating to the disposal of the unsold lands, or the fulfilment of present contracts, will be satisfactory unless it provides plainly and clearly for the ultimate securing of the freehold in all cases where so desired, and all farmers are urged to do their utmost to secure the legalising of this principle.” Mr. Caesar inquired if the optional tenure would imjily the freehold. The Chairman replied that it included the freehold and the L.I.P. Mr. Chambers thought the question had been discussed pretty freely all over the colony and he therefore moved that the remit be confirmed. Mr. Lysnar did not express himself in favor of the remit. Mr.-Caesar seconded Mr. Chambers’ motion. Mr. Lysnar considered that it went toj far. It was not advisable for the Farmers’ Union to identify itself with a hard and fast condition such as provided. He would prefer the remit giving the option'al tenure. They wanted the freehold and the leasehold. He would vote against it. Mr. McDonald said he would like to have it made more definite and clear what was meant by leasehold lands. Present contracts would include 0.R.P., L.I.P. and small grazing runs. It would be stretching a point too far to ask that the Conference should approve of small grazing runs. He thought it would be unfair to press a point like that'. They had a good right to the freehold on short dated leases. He moved as an amendment that it be struck out.

Mr. Clayton thought it was not a desirable resolution. The deletion of the words “or the fulfilment of present contracts” would meet the case. If the Farmers’ Union pretends to express a desire to acquire thr freehold on short term leases, they would do themselves harm in the eyes of the public. This was unfair. The small tenants have practically exemption of rates. He thought that with regard to the L.I.P. ten ai.ts, that was what the Union was battling for. - ' The L.I.P. takes a dibit rent position absolutely. It is doing a great benefit to the colony and to the State as a whole. If the tenants were allowed to acquiro the freehold, it would give the Government more money to spend in acquiring estates and an opportunity of getting additional taxation. From a return put on the table of the House a little time back, it was seen that there was not one tenant who

v/as paying land tax. Small grazing runs on short term leases should be excluded from the freehold. The Faimers’ Union would be considered working for selfish ends, but it is working for the benefit of the town and the colony as a whole, although the formers’ needs took precedence. The amendment was not seconded and was withdrawn. Mr. Hutchinson was in favor ol the whole motion being passed as ii stood. He always understood the Farmers’ Union was in favor of the fieehold in a general way. They would not alienate the public but the lessees, which was more important than the views of the public. The remit was lost, three voting for and six against.

ENDOWMENTS. ‘‘That in any future setting aside of lands by way of endowments for education or any other purpose, lessees of such lands shall have the op tioii of obtaining the ■ freehold when so desired, the purchase money o' such lands to be placed as prir.Vtpa, to such endowment fund.”

Mr. Lysnar said this was quite contrary to what the Union would ask for He moved that the remit be rejected by the Conference. He considered it quite wrong in principle and was a.t a loss to know how it came on the order-paper. Mr. McDonald seconded.

Mr. Hutchinson expressed the opinion. that they could not carry the remit and be consistent with their principles. Mr. McDonald, said the purpose of erdowments was that they should increase in vaue as time went on. buc if they were sold it ended there. Mr. Clayton was not in favor of the principle of endowments being continued, but he did not think this resolution met the case.

The Chairman said that on the question of endowments there was one striking example in this district and he referred to the Harbor Board endowments just about duo. If a law like this had been passed, they would have been in a bad position. It was not a- question of leasehold against freehold. This question was on a different basis.

Mr. Chambers was not opposed to the principle of endowments. It was licnsence to say that endowments should be sold.

Mr. Clayton proposed as an amendment that while the Conference was not opposed to the principle of endow ments it was against the wholesale setting aside of tho Government lands for endowment purposes. Mr. Caesar was of opinion that the best thing to do was to strike it out. They coulfj not alter the whole thing like that;" 'Mr. Chambers seconded. The remit was put to the vote and rejected.

LANDS MORTGAGED. “That where loans to local bodies have been raised under the Act, und tha lands mortgaged to the .Govein ment to secure repayment with ante rest, tho proportionate amount ol such liability shall bo deducted horn valuation in computing land tax m same manner as ordinary mortgages are deducted.” .... The Chairman said that the remits were coming up for discussion and lie seconded the above pro forma. Mr. Lysnar thought- it wrong in

principle. . . Mr. Chambers maintained that one should not spend money and bo taxed for spending. Mr. Clayton said that Mr. Lysnar pointed out that local bodies could obtain money from tho Government at a lower rate than they could obtain it elsewhere. They did not pay a mortgage tax and naturally file Government. does not- tax itself. T," I tiers taxed themselves to provide I r< ads, doing Government work ant. certainly the amount of liability should bo deducted as in tlio case ot oidinary mortgage. The resolution was confirmed, u I voting for and 2 against. THE NAVY.

“The seeing our welfare as exporters of food productions is .so directly dependent on Britain s supremacy as a naval Poweir this Cc nforence heartily endorse Sir J • Cf. Ward’s pronouncements in regard to New Zealand supplementing tlio cost of the British navy, in preference to supporting any scheme for a local contingent of the same, ill proposing that the remit bo confirmed. Sir Joseph was in favor ol an Imperial navy. Mr. Clayton said the farmers as a whole desired to support the Imperial navy. It was ridiculous to attempt to start a navy of our own. It was very desirable to encourage Colonials to join the navy and help it, that way. £IOO,OOO would not provide a navy* it would not buy a torpedo boat. If the colonies had a little navy it would be destroyed in detail. He seconded the remit. Mr. Lysnar said they could well I afford to leave the Colonial navy alone. He believed it was right in principle, until they had some bettei basis of working. Ho referred particularly to the tariff question. It I K,n gland was able to give us preferI once in tariff, or put us on a better I basis than she puts on foreign naI tions, it, then would be time to give I very substantial contribution to the ravy. The colony was very much hampered in competing with foreig I tiers, while we have no preference I against foreigners we should not contribute to the English navy. I The voting resulted in tho remit I being passed by one. PREFERENCE.

“That unconditional preferentia. treatment should be continued to tho Mother Country.” Mr. Clayton said he had great pleasure in moving practically what Mr. Lysnar had supported. New Zealand gave preference in her own small way, and in doing so showee the conservative public in England that a small nation with such a smal. population could have an extraordinary educative effect on the British public, by the Premiers’ Conference •n London. ■ ' , Mr. Caesar did not like the wording of this remit at all,, that a little colony giving all the preference should be worded differently. He moved as an amendment, that the wc rds, “any system of reciproca, preference be endorsed by this Con:elence.,, “We are giving all and they aro giving us nothing.” continued Mr. Caesar, “we are not educating the Old Country.” Mr. Bridge seconded. Mr. Chambers said they had got ,v certain amount of preference legislation in New Zealand, and they should support it, Mr. Clayton said one thing should be pointed out. At the present time fhe Mother Country gives us free access to her markets and we are nof giving her absolute freetrade. He though this motion was in the right direction. The colonies were showing the Mother Country that they were doing their best and she would reciprocate against foreigners. Mr.- Lvsnar said the condition ot things at Home had to ho taken into account. They could not altogether blame the English people when they rtmembered the small wages farm laborers received, from 15s to £1 per : week. (Mr. Caesar: Less than that.) I They have to be very chary about | altering the cost of food. He would not go so far as to say that the colonies should go in free and foreigners lie charged; he would sooner see the resolution go as it is and back up i the legislation of the Colony. The remit was passed.

MEMBERSHIP FEES. Mr. . Cameron submitted a motion affirming “That the most satisfactory method of supporting the Farmers’ Union is by a graduated or sliding scale on the value of properties, ana that as power to effect the change is now in the branches’ own hands, t'he Cominittes are earnestly desired to give this system a trial in fixing the coming year’s subscription.” Mr. Holden seconded.

l The following remit from the Gisborne branch was also received : “That the finances be reviewed with

a view to having a more equitable distribution of the funds of the Union.” Mr. Cameron said the question arose whether some members would not be too heavily taxed, whilst others escaped too lightly. Of course it would be quite clear, the man holding the largest and most valuable area would pay proportionately and the small man would be let down lightly. However, the man holding a big area might object, arguing that he did not get full value for hit money. It seemed to the speaker rather much to expect payment oil the basis of valuation. But some change was necessary; the subscriptions must be increased or the Union could not exist. They should be able to pay the secretaries for loss of time one day a week in enroling members and collecting subscriptions. More than that the Union required an organiser. So far they had been fortunate in gettiiig good men to come forward and perform the secretarial and other work gratuitously, but they could not expect this to continue always. The Chairman said Mr. Cameron’s objection could very easily bo overcome by the branches fixing a maximum and minimum subscription. Fix the maximum at say £2 and the minimum at ss, and work on a. sliding scale between that margin. At the same time there was no objection to a man putting up a “fiver” if lie liked. Personally lie was very much, m favor of a sliding scale; the men who had the most property were entitled to contribute the most towards an organisation which conserved their interests. ~ Mr-. Elliot said his experience was that if they asked for too much they would get nothing at all, members would drop out-. To fix a scale might only prove detrimental to membership. The Chairman said that was a matter for the branches to discuss. It would oomo as a recommendation from the Conference. Mr. Cameron: I think all the branches should be induced to fall into line. In reply to a question the Chairman said the sliding scale would not affect the levy. The Provincial Executive fixed their levy on the branches and then the Colonial Executive imposed a levy on tlio district executive.

Mr. Lysnar, i n supporting the motion, argued that the .executive should suggest a scale, otherwise some brancnes would fix one scale and neighboring branches something ouit© different. He suggested that the following subscription scale bo approvrdoir7lf property, capital value £250, ss; £SOO, 7s 6d; £IOOO 155£2000, £2OOO, 17s 6d; £3OOO, 20s; £4ooo’ 2os; £SOOO, 30s; £6000., 355; £7000,’ 40s; £BOOO, 50s; £IO,OOO, 60s. A man who owned £IO,OOO worth of property, if ho took any interest at all in tho organisation, would not, he believed, begrudge £3, nor would the smaller men begrudge to pay on the same basis. The small man should be allowed m as cheaply as possible; it was the big holders who should pav up. x •’

Mr. Elliot : How about those who lease from owners? The Chairman: Then fix the value of their interest.

Mr. Lysnar agreed. The Chairman pointed out that the freeholder, who rented land to others, had a right to allow himself 5 per cent, oil liis capital, before calculating that ho made any profit. With this exception both the freeholder and tho leaseholder should bo treated on the same footing when arriving at tneir respective interests in a -roperty.

Mr. Chambers suggested that tho executive be asked to draw up a scheme to submit to the various branones.

"Mr. McDonald maintained that something definite should bo arrived at- without fyrther delay. Ho thought Mr. Lysnar? 8 scale too high, and would suggest 7s 6d as the-minimum ana £1 Is as the maximum. He did not see that the Union would have anv extraordinary expenditure to face during the coming year. If any emergency did arise ho believed a levy could readily be raised: by a special notification to the various branches. The subscription he suggested would be a good start, and sufficient,

ho bolioved, to keep tho branches fin-

Mr. Cameron thought the 7s 6d. minimum rather too high. Mr. Clayton was not averse to a liifrli maximum. Ho thoug.it tho men who hold largo property interests could afford more in order to protect those interests. Therefore he favored a sliding scale with a fixed minimum • there was no objection to a nan-putting £2O or £SO uito the funds if ho felt he could afford it. Mr. Lysnar’s £250 valuation wm too low. How many farmers woro there whose valuation stood ™ * mont rolls at tAwr email in the back country. However small , their holdings, the valuations were rarely • below £SOO or £IOO . would suggest starting at 5s lor pro portv not over £IOOO, and raising fee 2s Gd for every additional[ £IOOO in value, with a maximum of £IO,OOO or £20,000. This would he eon,table and more easily worked out. He am ZtZo* with the advice— Heave, it to the branches.” Tins matter of finance had been the most formidable obstacle to face. The Present system was cumbersome and unworkable. .It was most difficult for a Provincial secretary to keep Tns books and fin- =”.,? r ii.*ba % x astss£'nnnn His advice in solving tne air mente For instance, to meet the conditions prevailing m. Auckland, where the holdings were as . a mle verv small the minimum, should notexcled 5s He would suggest that the branches should.-be upon, under the new system, on the aver age membership of the precei-” h ? year. Of course the argument might be raised, “Wo have 50 members Hus vear, and hext year may have ordy GO, so this method would he unfair. But to meet this contingency it would pay the Executives to make some concession, perhaps 5 per cent and say, ‘‘Your average was 50 last vear. Ve will fix cur levy at 45, and will expect payment on for the ensuing year. Brancn sec retaries would then bestir themselves to beat up the subscriptions : and __ "ommittoes would infuse more life m to the concern. Some such system -■hould he instituted, anil then Provincial Executives and .die Colonial Executive would know precisely how they Stood, and what funds they could depend.upon. WhaFwas the present position here? When the Executive proposed to appoint an organiser the solo obstacle was the question of finance. They were not in a position to say what they «udd afford in salary. The same thing when technical education was broached, hut in this case ths Executive took the bull by the horns and granted £SO, hoping, if funds did not turn no to make up the amount privately. He maintained that to properly discharge tlieir duties the Executive should have been in a position to say, “We will get so much revenue this year, and can afford to allocate so much for these particular objects. On every hand when anything was proposed they were met with the fear that they would not have sufficient funds. (A member: We could not even have a picnic.) (Laughter.) Probably that was an item apart from general funds. It was apparent the present system was hampering the Executive at every turn. It tended to prevent any member from bringing forward any original proposition that might be for the benefit of the Union, because someone was sure to raise the bogey, “Where is the revenue to come from?” Drastic reform was wanted, and lie thought it should come from the Colonial Executive, for endorsement by the Provincial Executives. , The Chairman thought the following scale would about meet the case: —£looo, ss; £3500, 10s; £IO,OOO, 20s. Mr. Bridge: Will that meet all levies? The Chairman : Yes, everything. .1 would point out that there is no Farthers’ Union branch in the colony with a majority of members whose valuations are under £IOOO. Mr. Lysnar suggested fixing the amount at 5s up to £500; 7s fid up to £1000; an additional 2s 6d for every y£]ooo up to £10,000; above that 10s for everv £2500. Thus with a. valuation of £20,000 the subscription would be £3. No doubt, he remarked, the average farmer was about as mean an individual as ever existed, when it came to the fee for '-his Union. (Laughter.) On the other hand, to give farmers their due, there were many who gave generously without any cavilling. As an alternative he would like to_ see the maximum fixed at not less than £2 2s. Mr. Clayton wished to move a motion to come before the Colonial Conference, hut agreed to Mr. Lysnar’s re-nest that it stand down until the sliding scale had been dealt with. Mr. Cameron remarked that whatever scale was fixed it should be for the whole of the North Island. It would he a mistake for one branch to fix one scale and another a different scale. After some further compj-omise, to meet all views the scale was approved as follows: —Subscription for property valued at £2s(L(mininium), 2s 6d; £SOO. ss; £IOOO, 7s 6d; £2OOO, 10s; £3OOO, 12s 6d: £4OOO, 15s; £5000,17s 6d: £6OOO, 20s"; £7OOO, 22:: 6d; £BOOO, 255; £9OOO, 27s 6d ■ £IO,OOO, 30s; £12,500, 40s; £15,000, 50s; £20,000 (maximum), 60s. Mr. Campbell’s motion urging a trial of the graduated or sliding scale of charges, with the addition of the scale suggested, was then unanimously agreed to. Mr. Clayton again submitted his motion as follows “That the delegate he instructed to bring before the Colonial Conference the whole question of Farmers’ Union finances, with a view of fixing subscriptions on a sliding scale, and with a view to placing the Colonial and Provincial Executives in a position to accurately estimate their income for the ensuing year.” By bringing the question before such a representative gathering there would be an opportunity to try and establish a good scheme, which would he binding on all branches. Mr. Holden seconded. Mr. Lysnar considered something should he added ,as to what proportion of the subscriptions should g0,,t0 the Provincial and Colonial Executives. He nut forward tentatively that when the subscription Hid not exceed 10s fifty per cent, should go to the Provincial and Colonial Executives jointly (leaving the latter’s pronortion of tlie 50 per cent, to he settled later), and for subscriptions exceeding 10s. 25 or cent, of the excess over 10s also to go to the Executive. Tf the proportion were made larger the branches would have no inducement to work up funds: it. must lie remembered they would still have to make some honorarium to their secretaries. Tlio Cisborne branch, for instance, was under very heavy Pense. as they had to pav rent, sec-’ rotarv’s allowance; printing, etc. The branch would not, make an effort to strengthen tlieir finances if tho hulk of the increase went to he Executive. Sav that they induced tho big men to give £3. members would not agree to 50 per cent. o:f that going to headquarters. - - -

The Chairman was informed by Mr. Lysnar that lie did not intend only a quarter of, say, 20s subscriptions being levied by the Executive. His nroposal was 50 per cent, of 10s. and in additiou 25 per cent, of all in excess or 10s. Therefore on a 20s subscription (s 6d would he devoted to Executive requirements. Mr. Cameron said the idea abroad was that the Provincial Executive received sufficient, and that if. was tho blanches which required moire monev to carry on. Tile Executives had not raised the question of raising the jlavy. Was it good policy to raise tms question until the Executives asked for more money? It was the branches that wanted pushing along, to make a heavy levy on the branches would probably result iu killing them. - The Executives should keep their expenses to a minimum and give the branches a chance of building up J , flU , lds - Tlle Proportion sug° gested by Mr. Lysnar was, in his opinion, too high. . Chambers:- Whatever tho-levy is we can’t fix it to-day. All we can do is to fix our own ra,ths. and sugthe^lev Conference fix

The Chairman: We have already fixed our own rates, or rather recommended the branches to agree to a scale submitted. We are discussing now a just proportion that bo submitted to the Colonial Conference so as to fix a definite line oi: action right through. Mr. Clayton considered tho proposal an excellent one. In his opinion the proposition would not press unduly on the branches. The Gisborne branch had been quoted, but it was in quite a different position from tjie other branches regarding' expenses. Some of the country branches had moro money than with their limited scope they could use to advantage. Ho would suggest that the proportion rcoommended be one-third to the branches, one-third to the Propincial Executive, and one-third to the Colonial Executive. Branches had not

to undertake large expenditure; for offectivo'Vork it was the governing Executives they had to look to. For branch expenses Gisborne was iu an exceptional position, expending as

much as any other two or three braii.ches combined, but it must not be taken as typical of tho branches m Poverty Bar. If the Provincial Executive had tho money to properly ndminster affairs, it would bo the Exe cutive’s duty to undortako such ox pondrturo d for printing, ■ tion of pamphlets, and other, h armors’ Union literature., advertising, defraying tho expenses of speakei-s (such as in connection with the Land Bill) and so on. Branches would not need to incur such liabilities under a proper system. It was necessary to strengthen the position of the Provincial Executive; moroovor, it was highly important that the Colonial Executive should he very strong finaiioially. He was satisfied that E one-third-was retained by the branches and two-thirds allocated between

the two Executives this would bo found much the hotter basis to work on. Tho Executives should he tlio fighting factors; they were the voices of the branches which sent representatives. The solid work, to ttfing good results, must bo left to the Executives, therefore funds fo lthe pur pose should be provided. Ho »” recti that tho Poverty Bay Executive had not been doing all they should, but it was due to the want °f money. +or( Mr. Lvsnar: One-tlnrd is too much; it is out of tho question. So far the Executive have been able to manage with 4s, and the expenses are not likely to increase to such an ex

to The Chairman said that Mr. Lvsnar’s proposal would work out tlia S H the branches would contribute at " least ss, so the Executive would gain Is per head._ Mr. Cameron agreed that it was quite true people coming hereto uprk ill the interests of the Farmers Union put the Executive to a considerable amount of expense,-and perhaps the Executive were entitled to

a larger levy on that account. Mr. Clayton: Suppose, for -instance we desire to appoint a voterinarian for the farmers the question of moans stares us in the face. Mr. Lysnar said that with his proposition "approved, branches adopting the slidng scale would Ok now exactly what to pnv to the Executive If the branches would not adopt the sliding scale the. Executive conic] say “MV still want the 4s. Therefore they would ho in no worse position th The b Chnirman: So small branches with a 5s fee wav the 4s?—-A os l . Then they just manage to waggle along. (Laughter.) A proposal was made to alter Mr. Lvsnar’s -roposition to a levy of 50 per cent, up to 10s. and 10.per 1 cenih on anv excess over that sum. Mr. Clavton: Ton w l find that this will rather deplete than rewlenish our Executive income, we don t want to submit a scheme that th Conference will summar’ 1 throw out After some further discussion Mr Clavton’s motion recommending the Sliding scale to Coufprence was carried. with the following addition (on Mr. T.vsnar’s mottnnl. and that i be suggested that 50 nor cent, pf •>' . snK«crir>tions ut> to 10s. «no V TL pr coot., on ariv oppose nwr th? 1 ATT to rv*orunl and Pro rpl.„ • mho oil'll"" seel<we reerimmond "dll preomnnnv +hmotion. T thiol- have done rath"<Tf)od work over this. -IT- ir„no"',lrl "b id n>» Mot" branoh ha'7 trol the vojit Oll'W.rjriClflTl at 7s od. Tbo rho.lrmnn • Our recommend" t.Tori to the hnwliw not "bo"— 1 f.oto a" alteraflor the nml o« th' T~ir. - 'Th'.ro is _ nothing Vlnhi"" In it io fo- • it is simnlv r roeommenrlb + ion from a nrettv repre sontetlv"

A JOURNAL FOR FARMERS. The following remit was submitted:—“That we note with pleasure the excellent manner in which the ‘Farmers’ Union Advocate’ is conducted, and urge all members to do their utmost to secure an increased circulation.” . . . Mr. Caesar said he saw nothing in the resolution. Was it intended for a recommendation to the Conference r It simply' looked like an advertisement for the Advocate. Mr. Clayton said the journal .was ownod by a section of the Colonial ; Executive. He preferred to move as an addition to the motion, “but we suggest that if funds will not pemiil it becoming a larger and more comprehensive journal, which would be of interest to the farmer’s family ar well as to the farmer, efforts should be’ made to affiliate it with some of the better known and established farm journals, lq/lg as the Colonic Executive control a certain space therein.” He thought ayeryone would agree that the Advocate, so far as'it went, was -an excellent little - journal.' It contained a lot of good readable stuff, but not enough of in- ' terest to suit the bulk.of fanners and serve as a family paper. Seeing that the Colonial Executive owned the paper, he thought some means should be devised to make it more attractive or else affiliate with some larger paper. (A voice: The Bulletin, for instance.) (Laughter.) Say it went as a supplement, its scope would be greatly enlarged, and it would reach many’more members than at present. The Advocate was not strong financially. and unless some steps were taken he was afraid it would fall said that personally he thought it would be a great mistake to affiliate with any other paper. It was run in the interests of the Earmers’ Union, and should be kept as the official organ, irrespective of anv other paper. He proposed that the original motion be sent on. Mr. Ijysnar seconded the Chairman. He did not believe in the Advocate taking a back seat as the supplement to any paper. Personally he never read a supplement. A member: You don’t realise what you’ve missed. (Daughter.) _ Mr. Lvsnar did not see why the paper could not be improved, without resorting to such means:' . Mr. Clayton:. I agree with -qu Cift it-is a question of finance, omce more. , • , .. Mr. Lysnar: Let us hang on to it and urge the T»eople to subscribe.. Mr. Clayton: We have done thal for three years, and the Advocate does not appear to have any more subscribers'now in this district. The Chairman did not agree witr this statement.' He noticed that lists were often published of peoojr who paid three vears’ subscriptions. Mr. Lysnar: I subscribe to it, and find it useful and interesting read in". If each branch would try and get -members to .subscribe the paper would soon be on its leys again, bp don’t, affiliate it, or its individuality will be sunk. , , Mr. Clayton : It does not make sat isfactorv progress. lam afraid 1+ will firale out if some such scheme y not adontod. Tbo last time I was m Wellington things seemed to be enti ° a Xho Chairman : The paper has beer improved altogether since then. Mr. Chambers seconded the amendment I 1" would sooner see it independent—(Mr. Clavton: So would Id —hut was afraid there was no hope. Mr. Cameron : TF the farmers won + ■ subscribe to the paper, then let it retirThe Chairman said that the pane" had just emerged from the first ama’ gamation. . , ~ On a vote being taken the amend ment was lost, arid the original me tion carried. . - fTbo conclusion of onr_ renort or xi proceedings will annear t.o-morrOW.l