The Wool Board Proposal

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 281, 24 August 1944, Page 4

The Wool Board Proposal

Sir, —You are to be commended for the able, constructive sub-leader covering the suggested setting-up of a “Wool Control Board.” Over 25 years ago the farmers organization gathered for conference in Wellington aud subsequently in Christchurch discussed the question of meat, dairy, and wool control. The Meat Board, which met with opposition from some quarters, has survived and fulfilled a useful purpose to the farmer, and exporter, both in peace and wartime. The work of the original Dairy Board was unfortunately crippled, which motivated the present guaranteed price and the elimination of well established exporters. It might yet be sound policy on the part of the Government to get the Dairy Board revised and operated similar to the Meat Board. The establishment of a. wool control board should not be a difficult matter and would eliminate much unnecessary expense without affecting to any great extent the' use of well-established and reputable wool buying organizations. When discussing this proposal it is well to realize that a large amount of capital is represented in wool store sidings and other equipment which have given the farmers facilities which cannot be lightly set aside. In all these matters, as indicated in your article, it is advisable at a time like the present to approach any change over with caution and every effort should be exercised to preserve the excellent service which the wool growers have enjoyed for many years past. No matter what Government controls the affairs of the country, it is always a wise policy to secure co-operation of present or time-tested services with safeguards which the representatives of producers, woolbuyers and exporters should be able to agree upon in order to promote the interests of all concerned with a minimum of dislocation. Personally. I consider the Wool Control Board” a wise and prudent suggestion which could be operated successfully to the advantage and not detriment of interested parties.—l am, etc. —ARTHUR W. JAMIESON. August 23.