STATE FARM PROPOSALS.

Evening Star, Issue 10900, 7 April 1899, Page 2

STATE FARM PROPOSALS.

~.. [SPECIAL TO THB STAB,]

WELLINGTON, April 7

A deputation of officers of the Women's Social Political League interviewed tbe Premier this morning, urging the establishment of a system of State farms. They proposed the purchase of three blocks aggregating 232 acres, near the city, at a cost of £6,000, with £4,000 for buildings and improvements, to be provided out of the charitable vote. They estimated the total value of labor, including 200jinmates earning 10s weekly, and 100 old-age pensioners paying 5s per week, at £6,500; and the expenses at £6,400. It was proposed tp form State farm homes for t&e negleoted, destitute, ajji the eligible inmates of the asylum, persons of weak intellect or senile. The Premier, in reply, said that the Government had been considering the questions raised by the deputation. There was a good deal to be said in favor of the soheme. Th G Government- were not responsible for statements in the newspapers regarding General Booth's proposals. The Government never said they were going to hand over the public institutions to tbe Silv.ition Army. The latter only proposed" to establish industrial colleges similar to those in the other colonies and on the same footing. If the Army established these the magistrates would have power to commit persons as in the case of the other homqs. Regarding formatories eetaimisned by the Army were superior to t£e State system of treatment. He admitted that the Government reformatories were not a complete success. The Cabinet would consider the depatation's proposals. He oongratulated the women on the interest they were taking in fhese questions., A reply would be sent in due course to the deputation.