FARM LABOUR

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22350, 22 February 1936, Page 17

FARM LABOUR

Sir, —I have been interested in the various expressions of opinion on farm labour. Naturally, there is a strong tendency to feel sore because of lack of response, especially when the potential supply is sapped by public works. Are we fairly facing the problem, and are we understanding? The truth seems reasonably obvious that up to now we have been able to impress labour on to farms by economic conditions, on slavery terms. Is this human or reasonable? 1 myself have farmed and know something about the hardship and ceaseless toil of a poorly-capitalised farm under inflated land values, and the narrow margin left for hired labour. It seems to nif that the solution of the problem does not lie in forcing economic victims on to farms, but in understanding whither the purpose in life is leading. We are learning through countless experiences and hard lessons that there is a greater purpose than profit and that exploitation and inhumanity to the weak only reacts on the perpetrator in the end. There is a modern trend, that expresses itself in an urge toward co-operation and mutual interest; this is healthy. With farming we have yet to learn that in many cases so-called ownership and freehold is a fallacy and cruel illusion. When interest on mortgages, loans and stock advances, to say nothing of outgoings, have been met, the average farmer is lucky if lie pays his store bill. Why these long hours on often poor and unsuitable land and inadequate equipment? I have often visualised the possibilities of group farming. Surely, by co-operation, modern equipment and regular and reasonable hours, returns could be assured that would satisfy any reasonable standard ot living and allow for rational wages for labour. Such an arrangement would allow for regular hours, leisure and the enjoyment of amenities that are beyond the wildest dreams of individual ownership. It seems that a steady and irresistible urge is pushing man into a more human relationship. We can expedite or retard this, as we wake up and realise that it exists and is part of God's plan to freedom. H.E.B.