THE FARMERS’ UNION.

Lake County Press, Issue 2669, 15 February 1917, Page 5

THE FARMERS’ UNION.

Political Action Proposed. The Farmers’ Union of New Zealand has hitherto refrained from taking part in patty politics (remarks the Bruca Herald), but the opinion was expressed at a meeting of the Taranaki Executive that it was time the farmers made a determined stand to combat certain elements. The alteration of the constitution was urged, and the following resolution carried ; “That it be a'roirit to the next Dominion Conference that, with a view to the proper safeguarding of the interests of the producers of the Dominion, tho time has arrived when they should be represented by a united body of members oh the House of Representatives pledged to protect those interests first of all; aid that in order to promote the organisation of such a party members of producing institutions be requested to support the movement and take any stops that are necessary to originate tho formation of such party among members now in the House.” it was contended that the Farmers’ Union ought to organise not as aggressors but as n protecting force in the interests of producers, says our contemporary. Wo have a few remarks to make. 1. “The time has arrived.” Did the time arrive a little while ago or about forty years ago ? 2. Tho abovequoted resolution of tho Taranaki Executive is vague. What are the “certain hostile elements?” Is the Manufacturers’ Association to increase duties on imports one of them? •’>. There is no straightforward and manly declaration of political principles and policy. 4. If the political action is not aggressive it will bo of no value to farmers. 5, The farmers should follow the example of the farmers of Canada, and Australia, and begin a Free Trade movement.