RESERVISTS WITH FARMS

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 3027, 14 March 1917, Page 10

RESERVISTS WITH FARMS

9 RECRUITING BOARD'S ADVICE KEEP THE FARMS GOING i : "My attention has been drawn lo tho fact that in many parts of tho Dominion farmer reservists who have- beou called up for service arc not taking steps to have their farms carried on, and aro not representing to tho Military Sorvico Boaids tho ' difficulties with which they aro confronted," states Sir James Allen, chairman of tho Eecruitiiig Board. "It has been reported to mo that some- fanner reservists aro nob appealing for exemption, uttt are selling off their stock and shutting lip their properties, because, they feel that any other course, may reflect upon their patriotism and loyalty. / "I fully appreciate the spirit which prompts them to take this course, hut do not think it is ono that in in tho host interests of tii© Empire. It seems to ino a national necessity at tho present time to keep all farms going at their normal stockVcarryini;* and grainproducing capacity ju order to Mamtain the Dominion's output of foodstuffs. Indeed, it is essential in my opinion thai; sufficient wheat should be grown in Now Zealand during the next season for the year's consumption. "1 therefore -urge overy farmer reservist who ia called up by ballot, and ■who is -unablo to make satisfactory arrangements for the carrying on of his ■.farm, to either bring his case beforethe Military Service- Board on appeal or to at once approach the National Efficiency Board for advicoancl assistance. In fact, it is not necessary for 'any farmer reservist to"wait until bo is called vp by ballot before consulting the National Efficiency Board, as Iho latter proposes to deal with tho cases of farmers called up, or who are likely to bo called np, for service, and I can assure reservists that they need have no hesitation in seeking its holp." ■ '