STARVING FARMERS

Hokitika Guardian, 6 January 1931, Page 6

STARVING FARMERS

DEMAND FOOD IN TOWN. , , .. .;t *. i [United Press Association.—By Electne Telegraph.—Copyright.] NEW YORK, January 4. A report from England, in Arkansas states: —The prolonged drought that ruined hundreds of Cemtralf United States farms last summer liad a dramatic sequel when a mob of five hundred farmers,' some of them armed, marched on this town, demanding food for themselves and their falmilies, When the mob threatened to break into shops for provisions unless they were supplied without cost from other sources, the local residents sent aji appeal to the Red Cross headquarters, while Mr George Moms, an Attorney, addressed the fanners, assuring them that they would not he permitted to 'starve, and cautioning them against committing regrettable depredations. Mr Morris was frequently interrupted by cries from the farmers that their wives and children were actually dying because there was no food. Some •of them shouted: “We arc not beggars. We will willingly work if we can get it.” The Red Cross authorised the local provision shops to issue a small food allowance to the , needy until other arrangements are made.