EMPIRE TOURS.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 79, 3 April 1928, Page 9

EMPIRE TOURS.

FARMERS ORGANISING. RECIPROCAL HOSPITALITY. NEW ZEALAND VISIT PROPOSED. (By Telegraph.—Special to "Star.") WELLINGTON, this day.

Organised visits !of South African farmers to the Unfted Kingdom, and reciprocal, hospitality to groups of visiting English farmers, have been conducted for several years. The New Zealand Government has received from the High Commissioner in London information that it is now proposed to extend the scope of this system under the title of "The British National Union," directed by a committee composed of representatives of all the Dominions, and aiming at inter-Einpire visits of farmers.

"At the request of the union," states the Minister of Agriculture (the Hon. 0. J. Hawken), "the High Commissioner has had full inquiries made by reputable retired New Zealand farmers in London, who report that they consider the scheme a good one, in which New Zealand farmers would benefit by participation. Arrangements are being made

in other Dominions for farmers to visit and tour Great Britain this year, the tour commencing on June 4 and terminating on 'August 17. Visitors will be escorted, and will travel over a great part of England, Scotland, and Ireland, inspecting all matters of agricultural interest. While there might not be time for a delegation from New Zealand to be organised, visiting farmers from the Dominion could take advantage of the tour organised for other Dominions.

"I should like to make it plain," added Mr. Hawken, "that the scheme is not a Government one, although my Department will be pleased to extend its co-operation. lam informed that transport arrangements are in the hands of a large tourist agency, with branches iu the Dominion, and that the New Zealand Farmers' Union is in possession of particulars. I would, therefore, suggest that farmers interested in the system I get into communication with the Farmers' Union."

Asked whether farmers undertaking trips under the auspices of the union would receive any concessions in boat fares and other travelling expenses, the Minister stated that the information received by the Government did not disclose that such benefits were available.

The Minister added that the High Commissioner reported that the British National Union proposed a visit next year from farmers in England and other parts of the Empire to Australia and New Zealand. That would involve the setting up of an organisation in New Zealand to arrange for the reception of the visitors. The High Commissioner had expressed the opinion that the New Zealand Farmers' Union was the best body to undertake organisation, and this is also the opinion of the Minister.