FARMERS 'FRUSTRATED' APPLETON SAYS

Northern Advocate, 4 June 1947, Page 5

FARMERS 'FRUSTRATED' APPLETON SAYS

“AT the moment frustration is the one word which expresses the feelings of most dairy producers,” said Mr E. G. Appleton in his presidential remarks at the opening of the annual Northland Dairy Conference in Whangarei today.

Overseas there seemed to be a lack of progress towards recovery and Britain’s economic position appeared to be difficult.

That might have repercussions in New Zealand on account of the export trade with Britain upon which the Dominion’s economic structure rested. In New Zealand there was frequent —almost continual —industrial unrest, a lack of balance in economy and a continuous shortage or lag in the supply of goods and services which the farmer needed for efficient production. There appeared to be a lack of positive statesmanship and leadership towards a vigorous policy of getting something done.

Climatically the early part of the season had not been promising and that, plus the effects'of last season’s drought, had effected production. Output woufl be slightly above last season's but would not, by any means, reach the volume of a normal season, Mr Appleton continued.

LITTLE- DROUGHT RELIEF

Just a year ago strong representations were being made to the Government for compensation on account of drought conditions. At that time the only measure of relief in prospect had been the provision for granting bank overdrafts at 3 per cent on drought relief accounts.

Some further relief was gained by the Government’s attempts to conserve hay in certain areas and transport it to areas in need.

In spite of the efforts of the committee, consisting of Mr A. J. Sinclair, Mr H. H. Sutherland and himself, no further relief measures were obtained. No doubt all was done that could be done in the transfer of hay supplies — the transport position at that time not being the best—but results could have been of greater value. Mr Appleton commended the efforts of Messrs W. E. Lewisham, of Auckland, who did all they could to help producers in spite of an almost complete lack of any financial gain. Referring to the Dairy Industry Commission, Mr Appleton said he believed the step to be a slight one in the right direction. ‘SOME SLIGHT SAY’

If carried out the proposals would give the producer some slight say in the disposal of his produce and efficient functioning of the commission could lead to even more advanced measures in the producers’ interest. Much would depend on the earnestness and sincerity of all parties. The New Zealand Dairy Board approved the proposals, not believing that they were perfect but that they were the best obtainable at present.

Mr Appleton said he believed the Northland Conference, through the years of its existence, had exerted a 'great influence in achieving better conditions for the producer. The financial statement for the year ended April 30, 1947, showed a credit of £165 as against £lO9 at the commencement of the period.