FARMERS AND WAR EFFORT

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23618, 30 March 1940, Page 15

FARMERS AND WAR EFFORT

Sir, —1 notice the WJiangarei executive of the Farmers' Union lias recorded a resolution of disagreement with the provincial executive's action in withdrawing its representatives from the Primary Production Council. In doing so they express a feeling shared by a great number of members throughout the province. The provincial executive a few weeks ago also refused to co-operate with the Primary Production Council in response to its request to facilitate farm labour arrangements. No matter what officials of the union may personally think of the Government's policy, it is their duty to be helpful and to assist the Primary Production Council with their delegate's advice, and in every way possible. ' As a life-long member of the union, I support the protest of the Whangarei meeting. There is a marked tendency for the union officials to carry out then' own expressed ideas irrespective of the views of the rank and file of the membership. This makes the farmers look ridiculous and reflects seriously on the influence of the union in the community. • Some months ago a prominent member in the north advocated a more direct and democratic method of election of the provincial executive. It is high time something was done to ensure that the executive officials express the mind of the members and take a more reasonable attitude, especially where cooperation with the Government in the war effort is concerned. Old Member.