FARMERS’ UNION.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXII, Issue 8828, 1 June 1907, Page 3

FARMERS’ UNION.

Southland Conference. Far-Reaching Resolutions. Per Press. Association.. Ihvehcaeqiix, May 31. .A.t the annual Conference of Southland branch of the Farmers’ Union, the President, Mr John McQueen, congratulated the farmers on the splendid season. Resolutions wore carried in favour of freehold tenure (this in emphatic terms); of granting the option of freehold to lessees of any endowment set aside in future for education or other purposes, purchase money to be placed as principal to such endowment fund; and of giving all Crown tenants the same privilege as West Coast settlement tenants in paying rent through the Post Office. It was also resolved that in the case of loans raised under Act, and lands mortgaged to Government to secure payment with interest, a proportionate amount of such liability bo deducted from the valuation in computing land tax, the same as in ordinary mortgage.

That in valuing land tho increased value given to same by improvements made by Government Loans to Local Bodies and local rates and contributions bo added to tho improved value and not to the unimproved value, the Valuation Act to be amended accordingly.

That Government be asked to assist competent ploughmen, farm Laborers, and domestic servants to immigrate. That Sir Joseph Ward’s pronouncement re navy subsidy be endorsed. That Britain should be given unconditional preference.

That opposition to the referendum be affirmed. That tin Colonial Farmers’ Conference be-urged to oppose any alteration in the system of voting for representation on local bodies.

That a universal Saturday half-holiday be opposed and district option favored.

That small bird destruction be enforced rigidly against all town authorities. That the sheep tax be abolished.

That the Government bo asked to introduce police and enforce the Vagrancy Act in the country districts. That the cost of railage of stock should be reduced. That the attention of the Minister of Agriculture bo called to Government's omission to destroy noxious weeds on Crown lands and reserves.

That the Union take up the question of readjustment of electorates. That £IOOO per annum be paid to the Leader of the Opposition for the time being and that ho have the privileges of a Minister in the matter of access to books and documents.