FARMERS AND THE WAR.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXXV, Issue 8204, 29 July 1915, Page 6

FARMERS AND THE WAR.

MATTERS OF DEFENCE

DISCUSSION AT UNION CONFERENCE.

WELLINGTON, July 28

Considerable discussion look place at the annual conference of the New Zealand Farmers' Union to-day on the question of local defence. This was introduced by thn following remit from Otago and Southland: —"That, in the opinion of this conference, although the unity of the Empire Fleet must always remain hnperatiye, the heart t>t the Empire being vital to the extremities,' yet some form of local de-

fence is a necessity and will tend to develop the sentiment of personal interest and sacrifice to the Empire to a greater degree than a purely monetary subsidy." Mr J. McQueen (Southland) said that by the time Great Britain had finished with Germany there would not be much necessity for building up a strong fleet, but the conference could express its opinion on local defence. He thought that New Zealand should have a fast cruiser, and perhaps a number of submarines. Mr G. Gardner (North Canterbury) asked that the remit should be withdrawn. The country was under military rule, and it was no time for an academic discussion. All efforts should be devoted to helping the Motherland in her struggle against the Germans. Mr G. Anderson (Pelorns Sound) said there was no doubt of the farmers' Imperialism. They had the largest stake in the country. Other speakers said the present xvas an inopportune time for such a subject to be introduced. Mr E. Maxwell (Taranaki) asked that the following motion should be considered after the one under 'discussion : " That it is the opinion of the conference that. a Dominion register should ■be forthwith compiled. so that absolute ; knowledge as to our resources in men, etc., could be available in case of extreme need or urgency." Mr Maxwell said that he did not desire to do more than refer to the ghastly experience of the past, when " we were not ready either with men or material."

Mr Anderson said that the German menace was not the only one to New Zealand. There were other Powers bordering : on the Pacific that might possibly be a' danger. The farmers were all in favour of a white Nov.- Zealand.

After further discussion, the following amendment was carried by a large majority: "That any derision as to the future naval policy of the Dominion should be left in abeyance tintil after the close of the war."

It vva.s decided to deal with the motion referring to a national register later on in the session.