FARMERS’ UNION

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 427, 7 May 1937, Page 4

FARMERS’ UNION

PROGRESS REVIEWED Sub-Provincial Annual Meeting The annual meeting of the Strat- ; ford sub-provincial executive of the Farmers’ Union was held to-day, Mr T. T. Murray presiding. “I have to report another busy year in union affairs,” said Mr Murray in ■ his address to members. "Recent changes cause us to be more alert in watching our interests.” | The proposed amalgamation of I counties was a matter that required consideration, and support should be given local bodies after they had come to a decision. The labour question was still acute and could not go on indefinitely. Although the appearance of many farms and buildings had been improved during the past year, noxious weeds were still covering hundreds of acres that should be producing. Increased prices for wool, mutton and lamb had benefited graziers to a great extent. The position in regard to the dairy branch of farming appeared to be a serious one. Cheese prices were fair, but the problem was to keep farmers in the manufacture of cheese as the margin promised by the guaranteed price seemed to have disappeared. When it was realised | that the year was what could be termed a peak one for prices of all other i exports from New Zealand, the price !of butter at Home was poor. If the marketing system was at fault, then it would have to be remedied. Rising costs were receiving the attention of the Union at the present time, and he reminded members that as primary producers they could not pass on costs and the matter was one of- vital importance to them. In conclusion, Mr Murray thanked the Railway Department, auctioneers, Mrs H. A. Hunt, who had attended to the union’s business during the illness of her husband, the Press, and , all others who had assisted during | the year. I The motion for the adoption of tho report was seconded by Mr B. Richi mond and was carried after a short ; discussion. I Officers were elected as follow: President, Mr T. T. Murray; vicepresidents, Messrs M. Davis and M. P. Ford: secretary, Mr 11. A. Hunt; I emergency committee:—President, | vice-presidents, secretary and Mr H. . J. Marchant; delegates to North Tara- ' naki provincial executive, president ' and secretary; auditor, Mr W. F. Ross. The Stratford Chamber of Commerce is to be asked to appoint a representative on the executive.