FARMERS’ UNION

Wairarapa Times-Age, 3 November 1941, Page 5

FARMERS’ UNION

PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE MEETING SOLDIERS’ LAND SETTLEMENT SCHEME. DISCUSSION IN MASTERTON TODAY. A meeting of the Wairarapa Provincial Executive of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union was held in Masterton today. The president, Mr Hugh Morrison, presided over a good attendance of branch delegates. The secretary of the Wairarapa R.S.A., Mr A. E. Prentice, forwarded a circular asking for the Union’s cooperation in a drive for stock in connection with a land settlement scheme for returned men from the Second N.Z.E.F. “While I am in favour of the scheme, I think it is starting too late,” said Mr Morrison. “Calves which could have been saved are now in full milk. We are willing to co-operate, but I think it should be held over for another season.” Mr J. H. Brennan said that most farmers had doubts on the Government and the R.S.A.’s scheme of caring for the stock during its most critical period, from 6 to 12 months. If the farmers could be assured that the stock would be looked after, none would hesitate to contribute. Mr R. E. Chamberlain contended that while the scheme was a good one, a more definite scheme was required. More information was necessary on the matter. The scheme was not necessarily too late. Many farmers who kept up to 12 calves could contribute one or two animals. Mr D. McGregor considered that sheep farmers could graze calves if necessary. Mr A. Forsberg suggested that farmers could winter the calves themselves. Mr Crawford held that a businesslike scheme was wanted. Mr A. Linton, of the New Zealand Dairy Board, stated that arrangements

in conection with the scheme were almost completed. The calves would be placed on Crown Lands from early next year. He commended the scheme, to all farmers. If all dairy farmers would contribute a calf, several thousand cows would be available to returned men. On the motion of Mr L. T. Daniell it was decided to refer the letter to the branches, and that the R.S.A. be asked to set up a committee to take possession of the stock.