MESSAGE TO FARMERS

Hokitika Guardian, 14 March 1917, Page 1

MESSAGE TO FARMERS

I.MBOUTANT ADVICE FROM -MINISTER OF DEFENCE. Few Press Association.—Copyuioe * WELLINGTON, March 13 Sir James Alleo, as <Jiiair,nau of t:.n Recruiting Board, wired all newspapc. s to-night as follows Aly attention has been drawn to t 3 fact that in many parts of the .Dominion farmer reservists, who have been called up for service, are not taking steps to have their farms carried on, and are not representing to the Military Service Boards the difficulties with which they are-confronted. It has been reported to me that some farmer, reservists are not appealing for exemption, but are selling off their stock and shutting up their properties because they fee'l that any other cause “ may reflect upon their patriotism and loyalty. I fully appreciate the spirit which prompts them to take this' cause, hut I do not think it is one that is in the best interests of the Empire. It seems to he a national necessity at the present time to keep all farms going at their normal stock carrying, and grain producing capacity, in order to maintain the Dominion’s output of foodstuffs. Indeed it is essential in my opinion tjia't sufficient wheat should he grown in New Zealand during the next season for the year’s consumption. I therefore urge every farmer reservist who is called up by ballot and who is unable to make satisfactory arrangements for the carrying on of his farm to either bring his case before the Military Service Board of appeal, or to at once approach the National Efficiency Board for advice and assistance. In fact it is not necessary for any farmer reservist to wait until he is called up by ballot before consulting the National Efficiency Board, as the latter proposes to deal with the cases.of farmers called up or who are likely to he called up for service, and I can assure reservists that they need have no hesitation in seeking its help. fi—un——m