NATIONAL INTERESTS FIRST

Evening Star, Issue 25995, 9 January 1947, Page 6

NATIONAL INTERESTS FIRST

SHIPPING MUST BE DESPATCHED WILL ASSIST GOVERNMENT (P.A.) WELLINGTON, Jan. 8. Although the farmers hoped the waterside workers’ grievances would be reasonably settled and serious delays at the ports ended, they were prepared to stand behind efforts taken in the interests of the community as a whole, said the chairman of the Action Committee of the Federated Farmers, Mr H. E. Blyde, in a telephone interview to-day. The present situation was delicate, and the farmers did not wish to cause 1 antagonism, but there was no point in disguising the fact that they were vitally concerned with industrial developments and the very serious effects which could occur to the economy of New Zealand. “If trouble occurs, I am expecting a call to Wellington,” he said } “ and doubtless the position will be discussed by duf organisation should circumstances warrant. Our attitude is quite plain. We do not wish to attack any other section of the community, but we are prepared to do whatever ;is necessary to assist the Government in maintaining production, which is necessary for the welfare of New Zealand and Britain. In this connection, we are.-of the opinion that the responsibility is the Government’s, but we are prepared to co-operate with the Government in the interests of the community and essential production.” Mr, Blyde added; that it was already apparent that this season’s produce would reach Britain later than was normal, which would be bad for Britain. and would not help New Zealand’s economy.