THE FARMERS' UNION.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIII, Issue 95, 23 April 1902, Page 4

THE FARMERS' UNION.

The quelsti-on of affiliation >wi'tbi the Farmers' Union was discussed at a meeting of the Waikato Farmers' Cliib on Monday evening:.

The President moved: "That the secretary be instructed to communicate with the Farmers' Union signifying the Wish of the club to affiliate, and atc^ptiKf ttis invitation to do so." The club,.■ft£:&4dß& ed, would remain perfectly independent, but would be called -upon to contribute Jo. the funds of the Union. There had been a great deal of talk about taking part in politics, but if they did not do so their, combination -would toe of little or no bener

fit to the farmers,

Mr Gane, in seconding the motion, said that if the farmers were banded .together they could command legislation in their inteTests. They did not want party polltics, but farmers' politics. > " s

Mr JC. Fisher said he was sorry that the club was about to be put asid« to so, some extent and replaced as* regards .some of its functions by the Union. The club had always avoided party politics. Jt had always considered measures, not men, and he saw no reason why th« Union should not do the same thing. They must waive sentiment in the interests of the farming community. He wotda vote for the motion. -^

Mr Forrest raised the objection that as they had difficulty in collecting- the club fees, they would not be able to collect the additiona^fee for the Union, and they would get landed in difficulties.'. - In referring to the resolution passed by the Trades Unions, he said they talked about what they did not understand. -They wanted only eight hours,work, and eight; loaves for 2d. He believed the preseif Ministry would do justice to the farmers' if the farmers gave them a little more support. He would like to see the farmers combine to fix prices.

Mr Blackett said the object of the meeting to be held in Wellington was to decide upon a platform. When this was nxed upon it would be necessary to send able men through the country to inform the farmers. He would suggest that a prize be offered for the best platform. The Trades Unions got all they wanted ■by sticking together, but he believed Mr Seddon was ashamed of them

tn^L Cr ai-rman> in reference to the fee* only n«vm °n' **♦',? that the Club wouia cSved? if t°T the, su-bseriPtion S it received, it took no liability in the matter unanimously" WaS then «"*•«* carried