BOYS ON FARMS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LV, Issue 257, 27 September 1935, Page 3

BOYS ON FARMS.

BETTER CONDITIONS URGED. NAPIER, Sept. 25. “The committee notes with regret that some- farmers are finding it difficult to get boys to fill positions. It is undoubtedly a pity that more boys do not go into the country; at the same time, However, the committee, trorn evidence that has come before it from time to time, is forced to the conclusion that some farmers expect boys to,

live in accommodation that is scarcely adequate.” The above is an extract from the annual report of the Napier Central Employment Committee for youths. Further, the report states that the life of a farm labourer is a hard one, ; especially on a dairy farm; the hours . are long and outdoor work has to be done no matter what the weather conditions may be. The committee feels cer- ! tain that if suitable accommodation were provided, a reasonable wage paid and sympathetic treatment afforded in conditions and hours of work, there , would be less difficulty in getting town.

boys to fill jobs in the country. “The position is also accounted for by the fact that where there are dairy herds boys are expected to work far too many hours,” the report adds. “There is, however, a gratifying progressive increase in the wages paid to toys for country positions. In 1932 the wage for boys was from 5s to 10s a week, and for the year just ended, 1934-35, 10s to £1 a week for good boys.”