BACK TO THE LAND

New Zealand Listener, Volume 9, Issue 227, 29 October 1943, Page 3

BACK TO THE LAND

Sir,-Might I also add a word of praise for the very fine article on "Agriculture Ard Modern Life," by Professor E, R. Hudson, It is well worthy of attention by those who are striving to get the people back on the land. Nevertheless, the question one asks is, how are the people to get on the land if some authoritative person does not make this objective his special mission? It seems to me we must shed the old idea of large-scale farms when thinking of farming in the present age. In

the past, the pioneers secured the land cheap because there was plenty available; they worked hard, and built up large holdings. To-day, our thoughts must turn to the small farm or small farm communities if we are going to put more people on the land, and engage in progressive farming. While we zre waiting for the boys of 16 and over to get suitable training for the land, I would suggest that a scheme be instituted such as was in operation in Denmark before the present war, under which town schoolchildren were exchanged for several weeks in summer with country children, This system would soon break down the prevailing dread town people have of country life, besides giving country children a taste of the amenities of the city. It would also give both groups of children a better chance of understanding the dependance industry and agriculture have on each other, If small farm communities were peopled with young couples, the question of increasing population in the country would solve itself. It is in the crowded cities where housing is scarce and living is high that the natural increase falls, The land girls are breaking down the prevailing idea of the drudgery of farm life. Let us extend the privilege to the younger children and make them eager to start their life’s work on the land.

A.

K.

(Christchurch).