LABOR FOR FARMERS.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 January 1920, Page 8

LABOR FOR FARMERS.

IMMIGRATION ADVOCATED. ' REQUEST TO GOVERNMENT. The executive of the Auckland Farmers' Union discussed tho question of immigration. A resolution was received from the Te Awamutu branch requesting that in order to encourage the development of the Dominion, which is being hindered ai. present by the shortage of labor, the provincial executive urge upon the Government the necessity for immediately promoting the immigration of a good class of industrial and agricultural labor. °

The president, Mr. J. Boduie, stated that this question was at trie very root of advancement and progress in this country, and it was perfectly patent to him that the Government was not dealing with it in an earnest raanrcr. The only way they could get increased production was to increase the labor. Mr. C. K. Wilson said that the Farmers' Union should bring forward a scheme and force it upon the Government. The Union should send men Home to choose suitable labor. Mr. J. E. Makgill said the time was opportune to take up this .matter. The members of the Expeditionary Force were nearly all hack, and they knew what labor was now required.' Men were wanted not only on farms, hut In industries as well, and if New Zealand did not encourage immigrants here quickly then they would go to other Dominions.

Lhe president, Mr. ,T. Boddie, moved that a strong remiest be made to the Government to initiate a progressive immigration policy. He said more labor was required in New Zealand, and if it wore obtained it would go a long way (o solving the question of the cost of living. Every industry was calling out for labor and could not get it. In one woollen mill in New Zealand, six looms were idle because there were no operators despite the fact that the highest wnires and best enndil.'.i-* we.'e offered. Fhe motion was carried. i