“Too Many Loafing In Camps,” Says Farmer

Northern Advocate, 30 September 1943, Page 2

“Too Many Loafing In Camps,” Says Farmer

(Special) DUNEDIN, Tuesday. The serious shortage of labour for farms was emphasised at a meeting of the Otago Provincial Council of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union. Several members criticised the procedure that had to be followed by farmers in their efforts to secure the release of men from the army. "There are far too many men loafing about the military camps of New Zealand,” said the chairman (Mr W. Lee). Mr James Begg: Eight thousand men have been released, according to Mr MeLagan. Mr Lee: Not one of them has come to our district. Mr Begg: Everyone says the same. After discussion in committee it was resolved that it be a recommendation to the National Service Department that a responsible officer should be put in charge of all applications for farm labour and should be given authority to act according to his own judgment on eases placed before him. A further resolution was passed expressing concern at the apparently cumbersome method provided for the release ol Grade I men recommended by armed forces appeal boards for the carrying on of primary production.