THE FARMERS' UNION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XL, Issue 12267, 11 May 1903, Page 6

THE FARMERS' UNION.

CONFERENCE AT INVERCARGILL. [nV TiSI.ECRAPH.-—PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

In'vercaegill, Saturday. At the annual meeting of tho Provincial Conference of the Farmers' Union satisfaction was expressed with the year's progress. Dealing with the motions sent in by the branches and executive, the union throughout the colony was urged to use its influence on members of Parliament to oppose legislation giving preference of employment to unionists. It was resolved to enter a strong protest against additional duties on agricultural machinery, and to support the proposed Bill by Mr. Kirkbride, M.H.R., providing for the mutual insurance of farmers against accident or fire. A motion setting forth that the Arbitration Act was unfair as providing for organised labour—employers, consumers, and farmers being ignored—and suggesting an amendment giving farmers representation on the Court was carried. A motion to hold the meetings of the colonial executive in the North and South Islands alternately led to a discussion, in which a separate executive for eaoh island was advocated. Amendments were moved, but all lost, as was the motion. It was resolved that the attention of the Government be called, with a view to legislation, to the extensive use of shoddy and cotton in woollen goods to the detriment of the pastoral industry, and that the Government be asked to offer a bonus for the destruction of small birds, tho local bodies contributing part of the cost. Mr. J. McQueen was re-elected president. CIUIISTCUTJnon, Saturday. The Templeton branch of the Farmers' Union held their annual conference and reunion yesterday, when there was a very large attendance of members and their families. The conference of the branches was held during the afternoon. Whilst this was proceeding, games and races were provided for the young people, and an excellent tea was served, after which was a concert Speeches were given by prominent members of the union.