FARMERS' UNION.

Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 187, 8 August 1919, Page 8

FARMERS' UNION.

KING COUNTRY BRANCHES. SECESSION DISCUSSED. At a meeting of the King Country subprovincial area of the Farmers' Union a motion was moved by Mr. F. Iredale expressing the opinion that the time had arrived when business solely concerning the King Country farmers should be transacted locally, and that this area ask for permission from the Auckland provincial organisation to become a provincial body connected with the Dominion executive direct. Mr. Iredale eaid he was actuated mainly by financial considerations. The area had sent £150 to the Auckland execu-' tive this year and still owed £43, and this had led to financial embarrassment. The present levy was 3/6, but it was being doubled by the Auckland executive. The membership of the area was about S3O, of which about 475 were financialIt waa somewhat difficult to collect subscriptions now, and it would become more so in future. The branches must have more money, and secession from Auckland would result in that object being achieved. Local farmers would have no less power, as they would be in direct touch with the Dominion executive; 'in fact, the power exercised might be greater, as . the appointment of a delegate would be probable. If his pro posal were adopted the delegates' expenses could be met.

Mr. Bremner seconded the motion. He said the Auckland body was "battling" for itself only, and .urged matters, such as the cattle-tick problem, which were contrary to King Country interests. Mr. J. S. Hunter said, the motion seemed to him to be a retrograde step. Mr. H. H. Thorns said he did not agree with the view that the King Country had no interest in Auckland.

Mr. H. Stubbs and Mr. R Cowan (Rangitoto) supported the motion. If it were defeated, said Mr. Cowan, his branch would cease to exist. They had had nothing from Auckland, the syetem of representation was wrong, and he did not think 'that their sub-area could pay a levy of 7/6.

Mr. C. K. Wilson said he had no authority to say that if they linked up with the Dominion executive the levy would not be heavier. South Hawke'e Bay had seceded, and he suggested a letter should be sent to that branch asking how the scheme worked.

It was decided to adopt this suggestion, and a further meeting will be held in about a month's time.