NO COMMANDEER.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 223, 20 September 1938, Page 11

NO COMMANDEER.

FOR DAIRY PRODUCE.

GUARANTEED MINIMUM.

COMPENSATING PRINCIPLE.

The removal of the commandeer principle in connection with dairy produce and the institution of a guaranteed minimum pike are promises made by the National party in its manifesto. A promise is also made to honour all commitments made bv the Labour Government a* to the current season's prices under the guaranteed price scheme. The ownership of hi* produce is to he returned to the producer. _ "Primary production Is the foundation of industry of New Zealand, and is entitled to a standard of reward comparable with other industries." the manifesto says. "As the farmer labours under an economic disadvantage in that he has to accept world market prices for his produce, but has to meet internal costs, we will give effect to such measures as will ensure that farmers are able to pay competitive rates nf wages, are assured of reasonable interest on capital value in farms and stock, are enabled to meet increased costs imposed by legislation— including train's— and are ensured a remuneration commensurate with the service they render, comparable with that obtained by other members of the community who render equal service. Lowering Costs. "This will be accomplished by a lowering of costs, or by a compensating payment for farm produce, or a combination of both.

"We will consult the dairy industry on matters relating to marketing and finance, and will assist by providing a guaranteed minimum price. Interim! prices and farming costs will both receive close attention."'

A vigorous land settlement policy i>4 to he pursued, first by making available fur settlement ;iny suitable areas of Crown hinds, and, secondly, by a policy of subdivision of such areas n-t are suitable for this purpose, the manifesto continues. Settlers will obtain their holdings at reasonable and economic values and on table mortgage. Voluntary Subdivision. Financial assistance will be provided and costs adjusted in order to encourage voluntary subdivision; to provide farms for suitable applicants such as farmers' sons, rural workers, share milkers and others with small amounts of capital; to assist in building homer* and developing and stocking the holdings; and to arrange small holdings for such seasonal workers a< dairy factory, freezing works, and farm workers and miners. Uroup settlement will he undertaken to assimilate less experienced men under the control of a group manager. The value of the farms. when developed, will be based on productive values.

"In order to provide amenities for married workers, in districts where such labour can ho utilised—particularly in tlie vieinitv of facilities will be given fur tin* erection of convenient ami suitable homes upon sin ill farms of convenient size,"—adds the manifesto.

"Land tenure will he in all cases at (fie option ot tlie settler, and allvigorous policy of tree-pinntin;r will he weather roads will he provided. A encouraged and assisted."