FARMERS AND THE ELECTION.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 3, Issue 250, 24 November 1914, Page 4

FARMERS AND THE ELECTION.

In its N-ue of last week ilie " Farmers' Union Advocato " has a few words to say relative to the coming election. It states that although it has not adopted a definite party attitude, it has given a clear indication to certain members of Parliament in times past that their actions, both in word and vote, have merited a withdrawal of support. Although nothing is said or dune to influence the vote of any member of the Union, it naturally expects that candidates who support the Union's policy will receive the individual support of members. Continuing, the " Advocate " says : " For the benefit of our country readers who may not yet have cast in their lot with the Farmers' Union, wo would urge them to make sure that the candidates they givo their support to are sound in their views in respect to the freehold tenuie of land, and in respect to the question of giving every encouragement to settlers to make their land productive. There are some candidates who would curry favour with certain sections by advocating increased taxation of land : the introduction of the betterment principle in development works, and by placing all sorts of restrictions on the farmer in his business. Theso men should be given to understand that such views will alienate the support of the farmer rather than secure it."

Referring to town organisation and that of the country the '' Advocato "' considers that " on the surface there may not bo any outstanding danger on this occasion, but we would note that the Socialists are working hard to secure a number of representatives in the hope of holding the balance of power and in thosa constituencies at any rate we trust the farmers will realise their responsibilities and not let the matter go by default."