MANAWATU FARMERS’ UNION.

Shannon News, 11 March 1924, Page 4

MANAWATU FARMERS’ UNION.

MONTHLY MEETING OE EXECUTIVE. The monthly meeting of the Manawatu Provincial executive of the Farmers ’ Union was held on Saturday, Mr. O. P. Lynch presiding - . There wore also present Messrs J. A. McLeavey, J. Balsillic, J. Gloyn, A. MeLeavoy, L. 11. Atkins, W. H. Becker, F. W. Hubbard, and B. G. Gower. ! Some time ago a riemib was received from the Manaltau branch, pro- | testing against the high price of variJ ous farm implements. After the matI ter had been considered by . the Union, ) it was referred to the Dominion executive for investigation. Replies from several of the firms concerned disclosed the facts that the highest 1 price for a plough during the war was £4B. To-day it was £32, which, considering the increased wages and reduction of working hours, compared favourably with, the pre-war price of £23. Regarding the threat that the Farmers’ Union would work for the removal of dutv on farm implements, one firm pointed out that the duty was so small and on such a few. lines that they would be losing very little assistance. The Government Department of industries made inquiries some weeks ago regarding certain lines, but when it found it was the implement makers who needed assistance, it apparently let the matter drop.—lt was resolved to acknowledge ',receipt*of the 'communications, and forward them on to the Manakau branch.

It was agreed that, the provincial levy for the incoming year- be 10s, and for the branches the usual ss, making a total of 30s, with the Dominion levy of 15s. In this connection the secretary (Mr. Budden), was instructed to obtain definite information as to whether the amount levied for propaganda purposes included the cost of the Farmers' publication, which is to be issued in the future. Matters appertaining to the dairy "ticket" weie again raised, it being pointed out that the universal opinion in the district was that the ward system of election was preferable. The secretary was instructed to communicate with the branches and ascertain their opinions regarding the Dairy and Meat Control Board elections, and also relative to the proposed petrol tax.

It was reported that entries for the Fanners' Union shooting contest close on March 15th, and the secretary is to advise the various branches to this effect.