FARMERS’ UNION

Southland Times, Issue 19248, 11 June 1921, Page 5

FARMERS’ UNION

THE PROVINCIAL CONFERENCE LONG DISCUSSION OF REMITS The annual meeting of delegates to the Provincial Conference of the N.Z. Farmers’ Union was held in the Y.M.C.A. hall yesterday, the meeting commencing at 10.30 a.m. The president, Mr G. P. Johnston, occupied the chair, there being over 50 delegates present. PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS. In the course of his opening address the president said:— We are now passing through very trying times, especially from the wool growers’ point of view. But already the tide seems to have turned and it is to be hoped that the financial strain will soon ease considerably. One thing we can be proud of and that is the way the producers have cheerfully met the shock; and with set determination are cutting down expenses and making every effort to overcome all difficulties. This shows that the pluck and spirit of our worthy pioneers have passed to the generations that have succeeded. We, as members of the Farmers’ Union, have a most important part to play in the betterment of ourselves and all those who are struggling to obtain a living from the foundation of all wealth, The Soil. The discussion upon our remits will be helpful in this direction, I am sure. 1 hold in my hands a letter from our dominion president complimenting you on the splendid agenda paper. I should like to say a word here about our Union. We began the year with high hopes that, at the very leas:, half of the farmers in Southland would join up and help the faithful few who have worked hard in the past in their interests, and are still working on with resolution. Much has been done in the Eastern districts, thanks to the energetic executive, notably Mr Bowmar, Mr Gilchrist, Mr Hendry Smith, Mr Dickie, and others; but in the Western districts, owing -’perhaps to the delay in arranging a system of propaganda work and lack of time at the disposal of our executive members, organising work has not been carried on. I earnestly hope they will awake to I heir responsibilities and give the lie to the ignominy cast upon us by some of our North Island Union men. Listen to what Mr Polson says in his speech at the Wellington Provincial Conference: “At the Ibst Dominion Conference it was decided to give the provinces a delegate for every 500 members, thus to a certain extent counter-

acting the anomally by which the small southern unions with a 10s subscrip ion and a still more microscopic membership are able to outvote reforms proposed by the large union? in the North with ten times the membership and in some ca?es ten times the subscriptions.” Surely the farmers of this fine province will arouse themselves, and come along even without waiting to be ; asked to join their own Union and not allow our North Island members to crow over our laxity. In the past year our Union has been fully alive to the farming interests. Your president has been four times at Wellington where most important questions were discussed. The Union earnestly supported the extension of the moratorium which has saved many an institution from going down, and will support a fur her extension if necessary. Then the position of the wheat growers for the next season’s crop is due to the Union, thanks to the wisdom of the North Otago members aided by the backing up they got at a dominion executive meeting at Wellington. Much more assistance could be given to members if they were to confide mere in their executives who are alive and progressive and I trust will be more fo in the future. We have to discuss the formation of a Farmers’ Party, which requires careful consideration. It is true that there are a good many members in Parliament who are in favour of assisting the farming interests. But as a whole I am safe in saying that the Government has not been fully, alive to the fact that the farming interests have not yet received the impetus and help that they should. If our dominion is to be prosperous every effort must be made to make the farming business remunerative to a degree far beyond what it is now or indeed ever has been and so get the source of wealth to overflew. Thus only will a check i>e put upon such an excessive influx to ovr town’, which is already having such detrimental effects and will assuredly lead to the downfall of nil prosperity. The time has come when our Union must take more interest in politics than it has done in the na< l ut I should think that could be' easily done without going so far as to form a Farmers' Party. Great car? needs to be taken that at this present troublous time we do not open doors for other evils and thus defeat our aims. We have also to aim at the control of the marketing of our produce. The dairying industry has made the attempt and we are glad that they have been successful. That leads me to say a few words about the shinping question, which has been already before the branches. No doubt some concrete scheme will be devised that will work successfully, backed up by the Government and in which all the producers and manufacturers in this dominion will have shares and so when we are assured cf back loading for our ships there will not he any fefcr of failure. We should also keen in view some scheme whereby more direct monetarv assistance could he given to farmers. In Denmark there is what is called a Farmers’ Bank which has proved a great success and we could very well take a le« c on from that progressive little country. I have touched upon a tew points of interest to our industries and it seem? to me that our watchword for the ensuing year should he Co-operation wherever possible. To this end let us not he satisfied until at least 80 per cent, of our farmers have joined their union. Again I appeal to every farmer to he up and help himself and others. We fall a prey easily to every vulture that swoop? down upon u?, and if profiteers gain their unjust measure we have no redress. The merchant may he pulled up for charging a halfpenny too much for a matchbox, but the profit on a single fat lamb may be as much as ten shillings. Vested interests may put the screw on, to use a common phrase, and still the powers that be remain silent. Bnt now our backs are against the wall and there is net going to he defeat. The dawn will soon come. My closing call to the tried and trusty is: “Hold the Fort.” OFFICE BEARERS. Tli? election of office-bearers resulted as follows:—President, Mr G. P. Johnston (reelected) ; vice-president®, Messrs E. Bcwmar, D. J. Heenan, A. Roy, jvn.. A McXenrie and P. Arnott; executive, Messrs W. Cou’er, Kay, T. R. Eadie, R. Sim, S. J. Fowle, F. J. H. Smith, J. D. Trotter. A. Howe, A. L. Linscott; J. J. Crampton, A. P. Schmidt and E. A. Cameron; auditor, Mr D. Cochrane ; delegate? to the conference, the presient and Mr E. Bowmar, CONSTITUTIONAL. DOMINION CONFERENCE. “That with a view towards securing to the* producers of this Dominion a sound progressive policy, the time has arrived when the Constitution of the Farmers’ Union should be so altered as to allow of the formation of a Fanners’ Party, and that Rule 23 be amended accordingly.” “In order that matters affecting farmers may be intelligently dealt with in Parliament the time has now arrived when the Farmers’ Union through its members shall make a stand and determine that only farmers or men with practical knowledge of fanners’ needs shall receive support at Parliamentary Elections, and this Conference is of opinion that the rules of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union should be altered accordingly.” "That is not io the best interests of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union for the same member to hold the position of Provincial or Dominion President for more than two years in succession.”—Carried. Mr A. Roy, jun., said that his branch had instructed him to vote against the formation of a Farmers’ Party. He moved the adoption of the remits pro forma, but said that he was of the opinion that practical

men should represent the farmers irrespective of party and they would be on the right lines if they adopted a remit to that effect. He moved the second remit. Mr W. Couser, seconding the motion, said that the time had arrived when the farmer* should have the best men representing the farmer? in Parliament. Surely the time had arrived when the farmers should have solid representation in Parliament. Not until they could get men conversant with their needs would they get intelligent legislation. Mr R. Sim said that the time had arrived when they should have a Fanners' Party with political representation in Parliament. He moved that the time had arrived for the formation of a Farmers’ Party. The chairman said that the remits would mean an alteration of rule 23. Mr P. Arnott remarked that prior to the last election the farmers were not represented. So far as the amendment was concerned he would oppose it. He had supported the amendment two years ago. but the expenence had been that it would split the Union in half it a separate party were formed. Mr H. Mclean, said that a few years age he had introduced the matter at a conference, but it had been defeated and he hoped to see the second remit carried. Mr L. Dey, Oteramika, stated that hil branch was adverse to the forming of a separate Farmers’ Party. He was of the opinion that rule 23 should be altered to allow of political question being discussed. Mr J. Irwin, Mataura, said that they should consider local conditions and they would be going a little too’far at present in forming a Farmers’ Party although he was in sympathy with the movement. Mr A. P. Schmidt said that at present they had a farmers' platform and they should support the candidates pledged to that platform. Mr A. McQueen said that at present thfl country was in a precarious state and there was a grave danger in bringing politics into the Union, as they would risk spoiling the work of reconstruction at present being performed. Several other delegates were against the formation of a political party. Mr A. Roy, with the permission of hie seconder asked permission to delete the word* “that Rule 23 be amended accordingly.” The president, said that in the past they had achieved little and he had often been asked what the farmers were doing. The farming interests were not getting the consideration they deserved as th? men in Parliament did not understand the farmers* needs. The powers that be were not going to move without having a consultation with farmers and he had had experience of this already. At those conferences the farmers were not given the voice they required. The aim of the politician to-day was to get as high as possible on the wave of public favour and just poise himself to hold that position. Mr J. D. Trotter made the statement that the rules at present gave the organisation ample room to work. Mr A. McKenzie said that their hands were at present tied by their rules and they should have a free hand to move if at any time they were of the opinion that a party should be formed. Ft would always be a .safeguard in dealing with politicians. The last-named remit was carried. AMENDMENT TO RULES.

“That Rule 12 be amended by inserting in line 5 after the word ‘year’ the wordi ‘not less than 7 days’ notice of the meeting shall be given to members by circular or advertisement.” —Carried. “That when any member of the Advisory Committee is not elected member of the Provincial Executive of the district he represents he shall nevertheless have a seat and vote on such Provincial Executive.” —Carried. AGRICULTURAL INSTRUCTION. Executive. —“That agricultural instruction as at present given in Technical Schools is of so little value that unless a better method is devised it had better be dropped from the curriculium.” Mr W. Couser moved the remit, saying that as the representative on the Technical Board for two years, and he had tried to get a plot of ground for pracical agricultural instruction. All the instruction they received was from text books. They could not teach anything out of a text book and demonstrations were necessary. They must have the land to work upon to get satisfactory results. They had paid £IU a year fov many years and practically nothing was done. When they threatened to withdraw their donation the Government had sent word to apply for three acres. He was of the opinion that the Government would give the land, but it was not enough. A college was being opened in the North Island. Mr J. D. Trotter seconded the remit pro forma and suggested that the conference should pass a motion asking the Government to supply 30 acres for the College. Mr P. Arnott said that the boys were receiving a practical education. He moved an amendment “That the Government be thanked for its grant of three acres and that the conference looks forward to a further grant when the outlook improves.” Mr A. McKenzie said that hl? boys had been through the College and had received good instruction. In reply to a question Mr Couser said that the Government had asked the Board to apply for three acres, but they had no guarantee whore the land would be or that they would receive it. Ihe three acres, so far as he could ascertain, would be paid for by the Department. Mr E. Bowmar said that at Gore High School boys were taken over the experimental area. He was of the opinion that the Technical boys could be taken to Winton for instruction. They spoilt their main aims by getting small areas dotted all over Southland. The amendment was carried. WATERFRONT TROUBLES. Executive.—“ That in the opinion of thit Conference the Government should investigate the conditions at present existing in regard to labour on New Zealand waterfronts, and endeavour to evolve a scheme that will obviate the enormous loss sustained by the regularly recurring strikes.” Mr J. D. Trotter moved the remit and suggested that the Dominion conference and other bodies should combine and endeavour to arrive at a solution of the strike problem. Mr E. A. Cameron seconded, and the remit was carried.

SHIPPING. Executive.—“ That in view of the isolated geographical position of New Zealand and the unsatisfactory shipping facilities, thia Conference is of opinion that the time is now ripe for the promotion of a Co.-O|iera-tive Shipping Company owned jointly by Government, Mercantile and Producing interests.” Maiaura Island.—“ That Government attention be drawn to the inadequacy of the coastal shipping service and be requested to assist the farmers in every way possible with the transport of their produce for consumption within the Dominion.” Mr E. Bowmar moved the first shipping remit, stating that it was not a new one and had been before them liefore. He outlined the proposal previously published with regard to the establishment of a shipping line. The remit was carried. Mr J. J. Crampton said in support of the improved coastal boats that if the Government was approached for help coastal boats would then be able to take oats and Southland produce to northern markets. Mr W. Couser seconded, and said that he had recently been in conversation with a big stud breeder and he was unable to get his stock to those markets in the north where he had a good market for many years. The secretary outlined what was being dore by Invercargill public bodies and appealed for the support of the Union in tha fight. Mr A. McKenzie said that coastal shipping was important and should receive the support of the Union. It had been staled t l at while the Southland fanners were selling oats at 2/- the North Island farmer was paying 5/- for the same oats. Mr E. Bowmar said that they should ba loyal to their port. Many wool grower*

(Continued from Page 5.) I shipped their wool from Dunedin to the de- I trim ent of Bluff. ! | It was decided to support the Chamber • I of Commerce in its fight to get Blufi looked • | upon as a first-class port. TAX ON MOTOR VEHICLES. Executive.—“ That in the opinion of this I Conference the Government should iniroI duce a bill whereby a tax shall be imposed I on motor vehicles, the revenue resulting to ’ go towards main roads up keen.” 1 An amendment was moved that instead I of "vehicles ’ the word “tyres” be substi- | tilted. [ Mr Collins said that the Knapdale branch i had recommended that fanner."' cars be excepted. Tne farmer paid taxes for the I up keep of the roads and should not be called upon io pay an extra tax. i Mr D. Dick e objected to the asking for i a tax. They had enough taxation without asking for it. I Mr E. A. Cameron said that he was of I the opinion th a; no motor ov/aers would ' object to paying the tax, but they should i ask for belter loads and leave the raising of funds io the Government. The amended clause was lost. INTEREST RATES. Executive.—" That this Conference views with inarm the e.er increasing interest rates whi.e agricultural products have nearly all dropped below pre-war values, and recommences that the Dominion Conference, by its representatives, will impress upon the Government the urgent necessity oi taking such steps as are necessary to prevent any further rise. The present condition of affairs will, jf allowed to continue, prove disastrous to the Dominion’s progress.” Mr E. Bowmar said that the raising of the interest was not to enable the banks to pay but simply to give them a lever whereby they could extract a little more from overdrafts. The Government had controlled interest for a certain time but had now allowed it to soar when control was needed. Mr W. Couser said that some of the banks of this country were sending money to London at short call and at higb rates and they were creating a shortage. The remit was carried unanimously. EDUCATION. InvcrcargilL—“That with a view both to economy and efficiency the quest on as to whether a system of centralisation oi schools be instituted should be considered.” Mr J. D. Tro*ter said that he moved the same remit last year. Tney had asked the Go.erament to retrench and here was an opportunity, for the Union to show a way. by centralising, the children would receive a better education. The scheme would overcome many difficulties. Mr D. J. Heenan said that the children in the back-blocks suilered by so many schools and centralising was a move in the right direction. They could not give their children a fa.r elementary education under the present scheme and it was a matter of grave importance to the back-block tanners. Mr L. Sim said that a proper conveyance system would nave to be established. It that were done he would favour the scheme. Mr A. Howe said that the scheme was a good one but some efficient means world have to be evolved. In h.s district it would mean the children not geting home until 7 p.m. which would be too long. Mr J. Irwin said that he had some experience with transportation and he did not th.nk the scheme practicable. Mr P. Arnott sa-d that the scheme should be adopted in suitable districts. They would tnen have something definite to work upon. Mr A. McQueen was against the innovation, stating that in England centralisation . had been tried but they had to revert to the old system. Mr E. A. Cameron advocated district development and said that each district should be as complete as possible, and a school was essential to a complete district. lhe remit was lost. LOOSE LETTER FEE. Invercargill.—“That the extra charge for mailing letters on the railway is unnecessary and unjust and should be abolished.’’ Mr J. D. Trotter said that it was a convenience to post letters on the tram which carried a staff to sort letters.—Carried. INCOME TAX. Executive.—“ That the whole question of taxation should be considered by a Commission of Experts with a view to placing on a more equitable basis the cost ot government, ’ —Carried. Knapdale.—‘That the Government be asked lo tepeal the law impos.ng income tax on farmers in so far as it applies to their farming transactions.” i Mr J. Dickson, inmoving the remit, said that the farmers were asking for a lot but there was no harm in going for more. ' Mr E. A. Cameron, in support, sa.d that i income tax collected at present was unjust j The fanner had to pay land and income tax and it depended upon the manner in which j farmers filled in their forms how much I they were liable for. Other delegates expressed the opinion that it was unjust to ask the fanners to pay two taxes. in reply to a question the chairman said i that the farmer would have to pay income tax on other investments. Mr J. .J. Crampton said that he was of lhe opinion that, if farmers made money out of farm transactions, they should be liable for income tax. Mr McLean said that the Government wanted money and if they got out of lhe income tax they would ha>e their land tax raised. lhe remit was carried. MILITARY DEFAULTERS. Knapdale.—“That this Conference pro tests against lhe action of the authorities m releasing military defaulters and that wt strongly support the Returned Soldiers' As 5 sociation in any action which may be neces- > sary to prevent defaulters obtaining civil ■ rights.” Mr J. Dickson said that the defaulters . were obtaining employment in preference to r returned men, and they should support the tLhLA, in their actions.—Carried,

POISONED POLLARD AND BISULPHIDE. Waiau.—“That in order to encourage farmers to use poisoned pollard the authorities be urged to arrange with local grocers to supply in any quantities at lhe same price as it can be obtained direct from tae Department.” "I’hat b.sulphidc being essential for the destruction of rabbits , it should be carried at a reasonably cheap rate on the railways, the present rate being prohibitive.” Mr S. Fowle moved the adoption and said that the storekeeper obtained poisoned pollard at a rate lower than the farmer. The present rate of bisulphide was very high and it could be taxen only in the winter. Mr L. S.m said that it was a question of controlling the selling price of the grocer. The grocer was entitled to something for his labour. Mr A. Nichol said that the date of mixing should be stamped on the tins as it was no use putting down stale poison. The remit was carried with the addition of the words “and date of mixing” after “Department.” ORGANISATION. Waiau.—“That a paid provincial organiser be appointed.” Mr S. Fowle introduced the subject which had been debated at every conference for some years, and the same arguments discusj'ed in committee. VOTE OF MONEY BY PUBLIC BODIES. Executive.—“ That this Conference highly d : sapproves of and demands the repeal*ci the iaw empowering public bodies to donate money to other bod es.”—Carried. PURE-BRED SIRES. Knapdale.—“That for the purpose of improving lhe breed of live stock at! sires shall be iiab.e to taxation, but that exemption be granted to pure-bred sires of approved quality.” lhe motion was moved by Mr J. Dickson and was lost without d.scussion. WOOL PACKS AND DRAFTS. Orawia.—“That the New Zealand Farmers’ Union hereby renews its request to have wool packs paid for and that th» old system of draft on wool be abolished.”— Carried. LEVEL CROSSINGS. Invercargill.—“That in order to reduce to a minimum accidents at railway crossings, the Government be requested to arrange that an up-to-date alarm system be adopted. Lhe mover and seconder said that the remit was important and that something should be done to give an alarm to approaching traffic.—Carried. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. Executive.—“ That this Conference request the Dominion Conference to make representation to the proper authority in order to secure to the Farmers’ Union the right to participate in the nominating vote for members of the Board of Agriculture.” Speaking to ihc remit Mr D. Marshall said that almost every member of lhe Boavd was a member of the Union. The remit was carried. ORGANISATION. Waikaka Valley: “That an Employers’ Federation be formed in connect.on with the Farmers’ Union to work in conjunction with other employers’ federation.” Mr J. Johnston, in moving the remit, said [ that it had often been stated that the farmers were the most poorly organised body of employers in the dominion. He referred to the increase of insurance premiums which the Farmers’ Federation would have to tackle. They, as fanners, had not been alive to their interests, when the times were good they had .been quiet, and now the slump was on, the fanners were beginning to make themselves heard. Mr Bowmar said that if the farmers registered as a body of employers their workers would register, and they would have labour union conditions on the farm. That would be irksome under the present conditions. The Canterbury farmers had gone deeply into the matter, and it was found impossible to work the system in Canterbury, and it would be the same in Southland, i Mr J. J. Crampton was of the opinion that the scheme was un- -orkable. It would be better if they went . j as at present. Mr McKenzie said th».i.ihcy were better under the present conditions. Mr L. J. Woodfield said that if the formation of a federation would mean the formation of a labour union of farm workers, it would ’be better left alone. Omy the mover voted tor the remit. Waikaka: “That the time has arrived for the Farmers’ Union to organise in such a way that the farmers’ interns may be better protected in the Conciliation Court.” Pukerau: “That it is advisable that the farmers be better represented at Conciliation and Arbitration Court meetings and thus be prepared to meet the cases before them.” Mr A. Johnston moved the remits, and referred to the situation which arose during the threshing season, when farmers had to work the mills themselves. He had a good threshing, und they had put thre-ugh 40 bags per hour. He was not finding fault with the men’s repiesentative, as he was placed in a difficult position. In the last tight they had been defeated by the Union advocates, and he was of lhe opinion that good representatives who had time to prepare a case and fight it, would secure a belter award. Mr L. J. Woodfield, who seconded the remit, said that they could afford to paygood wages- while they obtained good prices. Lime should be taken to work cases, and a good defence put up. They did not want to sweat the workers, but they were after a fair ueai. Mr A. Roy, one of the assessors, said that he would try lo justify the award. He recognised that he had a stiff row, but doubted if anyone could have done better. It was the secretary of the Employers’ Federation who conducted the case. He had only to go ntu the box and answer questions. One treng point they achieved was the fixing ■ >f the award tyr September 30. His ad : ice to farmers was that, as they were not a registered body, they ignore the award as they were not bound by it. Many mill workers had recognised that the demands were unreasonable, and it was the

worker they had to deal with and not the secretary of the Union. The remits were carried. Orawia: “That in view of the weakness of the Union in membership some scheme be formulated whereby a rate of 6d or 1/in the £ of rates paid could be collected by the County Council.” Mr L. Sim. in moving the adoption of the remit, said that his branch had given the scheme much considert’i.cn. Ine scheme would fall equitably up,on all. He was not, certain whether a poll was necessary. They had all sorts of unions end organisations, and the farmers were going to be the milch cow for those if they did not organise. It might be argued that the remit was compulsory unionism, but all labour unions were compulsory. An amendment that the remit be referred back to the Executive for consideration was carried. Dominion Executive.—‘That Rules 8 and 9 be altered to make th? Dominion VicePresident a member of the Advisory Commit lee.”—Carried. RAILWAYS. Waiau: That the Government be urged to push on the Tuatapere extension railway as far as Clifden. Mr S. Fowle said, in moving the motion, that if the railway was pushed to Clifden it would produce enough lime to supply Southland for all time. The Minister of Public Works had promised an extension to within four miles, and surely the Southland public could get the 4 miles completed. Mr 11. McLean seconded the remit, which was carried. Wyndham: “That this Conference strongly protests against the charge of threepence per can being made by the Railway Department for the loading of cream. We consider the charge unwarranted and therefore respectfully ask to have it removed.” Mr J. Smith, in moving the remit, said it was a burning question in his district. If a man did not wait after consigning cream and to help load it he was charged extra. lhe remit was carried. '"Balfour: “That this Conference is of opin.on that the Railway Department shoulu take all responsibility against hre to railway fences caused by passing trams and surfacemen burning off.” Mr T. Timpany urged the adoption of the remit as mucn uamage had been caused in his district by fires. The Railway Department had now taken up the attitude of paying lor no damage whatever, although a few years ago they paid for one side of the* line. A delegate said that up to six years ago the Department had supplied sleepers and drc-ppeis lor repairs to fences destroyed. He had received instructions recently to repair a fence. lhe remit was carried. FORWARD BUYING. Knapdale: "That it be declared a criminal offence for anybody to traffic in farm produce or the foodstuffs of the community unless they actually have the goods in stock.” Mr Collins said that the remit opened up a big question. They knew of cases where profiteering had been indulged in, with regard to farm produce. Mr E. A. Cameron said he did not hold with dealing in produce, but he would oppose the remit as it would be a great hindrance to trade. Mr Arnott said that they could hardly pass the remit as it stood at present, as the cheese factories negotiated for sales without having the goods in stock. The chairman read a letter from the dominion president, Mr Laidiaw. which stated that he would be pleased to see the remit passed, as it would stop forward buying in oats. Mr Couser: The remit is not too drastic. Mr Schmidt said that he cc-uld not see how the remit would affect butter or cheese. Mr J. Milne was of the opinion that tilt clause was too drastic, and would include cheese and buttex' factories as it stood at present. Mr H. McLean said that they were all in rympathy with the principle of the remit. He moved that the remit be referred to the executive to frame a remit for the Conference. The amendment was carried. DRAINAGE ACT. Mataura: “That this Conference is of opinion that the Drainage Act should be so altered that a land owner whose drains carry drainage from the adjoining land owner sliouiu ise compelled to keep them clear, and in the event of his failing to do so the County Council should have the power to clear same at the said owner’s expense and recover the cost of doing so in the same manner as the Council can collect the rates.” Mr J. Irwin, in moving the remit, raid that he was of opinion tnat the remit was law, but he had made inquiries and found that the County Council had power to clean out a dram, but could not recover the cost. lhe remit was lost. ARBITRATION COURT. Waianiwa: “That this Conference would draw attention to the fact that although prices lor all produce has slumped beyond miucipauon, Uie Arbitration uuurt is still raising the wages ox Union workers.” ixiiapdale: "luat this uomerence is of opinion mat the 4 r hitrauon Uo-urt should ue üboushed, as unaoubieuiy the Inga rate oi wages being fixed by tne Court and the conditions lain uown aie in a great measure tne cause oi unemployment at the present time.” ine mover said that the recent awards han shown that the Arbitration Court was not loliowing tiie prices oi produce. It was decided to take the latter remit first, tne chairman saying that there was an mipresaion abroad that tne Arbitration court nud run its course. It was ueciued tnat both remits be struck out and another remit was considered. RE IRENCHMENT. Provincial executive. —‘ inat the Government ue UigcU io draslicany reirenclr in . row oi me iad ihai lurni products have suiiered a severe uiop in values.” lv.nap<la*e.—‘That tms Uonrerence views with dissatisfaction lhe feeble attempt made by tne Legis.ators to reduce taxation at a critical Line like the present; our net income is iion-existent, and we arc living on Capital or Credit.” ivlr W. Couser moved the first retrenchment remit and m doing so said that it wanted little comment, ihe fanners were be.ng struck first and when the last retrenchment was earned the Government began at their own door. The farmers should voice no uncertain demand that the Government should retrench its own salanes first. There was no use in the politicians talking about retrenchment without setting an exampie. ‘lhey were reading the extrav agance race and lhe farmers should make a strong protest, Mr Uoiims, Knapdale, moved the second remit, saying that the last valuation had risen tremendous y and the valuators when asked for a reason said that it could not be i heiped. lhe last year had been bad and j if taxation was going to increase it was I going to be hard on the farmer as prices I were now low. Mr H. Smith said that they had some 1 remits for consideration which were in direct opposition to the retrenchment remits. Mr McLean said that there was a question of how the retrenchment was going to be done. They were dealing in generalities. Men were being dispensed with on many farms and thrown on the market. That was going to have a derpessmg effect on the country. They could effect a retrenchment by advocating the reduction in members of Parliament. The chairman said that the matter that should be pressed home was that the Gov ernment should drastically retrench. The.v would not like to have anyone dictating to them about retrenchment on the farms and they should have the manner of re trenchment by the Government. The remit was carried. LAND VALUATION. Knapdale.—“That the present illogical unfair and expensive system of Land Valui ation for taxation purposes be abolished and a system of raising revenue be adop ted whereby the rate only shall be in creased.” Woodlands and Mataura Island.—“ That this conference protests against the expensive and unsatisfactory system of valuing land and suggest that a universal unimproved value be established in areas according to quality and convenience,”

Riversdale.—“That this Conference protests against any increase in Land Valuation at the present time.” The three remits with regard to land valuation were taken together, being formally moved by representatives of the Unions sending them forward. Mr A. P. Schmidt said that lands should be classified and a uniform basis of valuation arrived at. In some cases there was a large difference in valuation. Mr J. J. Cramplin said that if a farmer improved his land in caj d value he did it himself, The Government had no right to. increase the unimproved value at the present rate. The time would come when the farmer would have no difference between capital and unimproved value. If more rates were required let the Government increase the rates and leave the unimproved value of the property alone. Mr Winter, River’dale, said that some of the Riversdale farms had decreased in improvement valuation to a marked extent and the unimproved value had been ra ; sed. Mr P. Arnott supported the fixed valuation and increased rates. They had protested against the present system for years and while the fixed valuation and in creased rate was new’ to him it had much to favour it. Mr A. Roy said that the Woodlands branch was not so much concerned about the increased valuation if the valuations were fair. There was at present no system of valuation and he did not know how the valuators arrived at their figures. Another delegate said that unless a railway had been constructed through a district he was of the opinion that the unimproved value should remain stationary. The genuine farmer wanted to keep his improved value as low as possible and the Government wanted it raised and was doing that at the exjTense of the capital value. Mr E. Bowmar said that no one would agree to the unimproved value, being stat ionary. If that were so it would be a great set back to the South Island. The North Island unimproved value had increased enormously. If a stationary unimproved va’ue were fixed the North Island would assist them in passing it and the result would be that the North Island would escape large taxation. What they should demand was that capable men be put on to value and that the work be done in a capable manner. Mr W. Couser said that for many years the Government had a systematic plundering scheme in land valuation. He could point out many instances in which the farmers’ money had been expended on the farm, and the unimproved value had been raised. Was that fair? Mr McLean said that a certain amount of money was required and if they had the unimproved value the tax would be large Mr J. Smith said that he could not see how the fixed unimproved value was going to work. There must be a rise and fall in unimproved land owing to better facilities for travel and railways. There was always the unearned increment which continually kept unimproved values rising. Mr A. P. Schmidt, in reply, said that it was not the increase his branch objected to, but the system. The Knapdale and Woodlands and Mataura Island remits were lost and the Rivsrsdale remit was carried. LAND VALUATION.

Executive.—“ That the Department be requested to arrange that when any valuation is to take place the valuer shall give ample notice of the date of visiting the iarm so as to enable the farmer to confer with him.” Mr Bowmar moved an amendment to this remit as follows: "That the present inconsistency and injustice everywhere apparent in our land values calls for the Government to take much greater care in appointing their valuers and that they b? instructed to take the necessary time and trouble over every valuation made.” He was not going to advocate capital value for taxation, as many were inclined to do, he said, and his amendment would cover tne remit. Mr Roy said that he was surprised, in face of the expression of farmers through out Southland against the valuation that the conference should turn down the remits that had come before it. Mr J. J. Crampton said that ninety per cent of the farmers were dissatisfied with the valuations. The amendment was carried. HARES. Balfour and Mossburn: "That there be no closed season for hares.” The Balfour representative (Mr Stevenson) said that the hares were becoming a menace, and appeared to be taking lhe rabbits’ place. Many farmers had been compelled to give up growing swede turnips. In the hill country they were organising drives for the destruction of hares. The Acclimatisation Society had stated it would consider the establishment of an open season if farmers desired it. The remit was carried. SMALL BIRD NUISANCE. Waikaka Valley.—“ That in view of the great increase ot small birds the County Council be asked to spend more money on their destruction.” Mr A. Johnston moved the remit, saying that years ago the County Council had purchased eggs, and since that practice had been stopped, the small birds were increasing. Mr W. P. Smith was of the opinion that the small boy was the best method of keeping the bird pest in check. Messrs E. Bowmar and S. Fowle, as members of the Council, stated they would like an indication from the meeting, as the County Council had not been spending much money on the small bird pest recently. Several delegates pointed out that the poisoned grain had not been very success.i:l, and Mr H. McLean moved an amendment that the -Agricultural Department be asked to investigate and prepare a more efficient me.hod of destruction. Seme members were of the opinion that the small birds were not increasing, and Messrs P. Arnott and J. Milne said that the small owls were making a difference. Mr Johnston said that he disagreed with those delegates who expressed the opinion that the small bird pest had decreased. In the Gore districts the pest was on the increase. The amendment was canned. ENDOWMENT LANDS. Edendale.—“That the Government be requested to grant the freehold of all- endowment lands.” Air P. Arnott, in moving the remit, said that it was the policy of the Union to grant the freehold in all cases.” Mr J. D. Trotter seconded the motion, and suggested that the words “and the money received be spent in acquiring town properties.” A delegate from Riversdale said that in his district there was a large amount of endowment lands, and those properties were not bearing their full share of taxation. On a property valued at £3OOO freehold the farmer would have to pay on £l5OO, but if the property was a leasehold with £l5OO Government interest- and £l5OO individual interest, the occupier got off scot free from taxation. That was not equitable. It was an imposition on the freeholder that he ,-hould be taxed for the ether property. Mr J. Irwin said that a great amount of revenue was at present derived for education from endowments, and the reserves should be maintained. The remit was lost. PROFITEERING. Waikaka Valley.—“ That the Government be urged to take practical steps to stop profiteering in fanners’ products.” The mover, Mr A. Johnston, said that there were more combines operating in New Zealand than they were aware of. He would like to know why lamb had slumped badly for a period, but had recovered. The remit was carried. Executive.—“ That, in view of the very rreat drop in prices of raw materials the iresent prices generally charged for mauuactured. articles are excessive and worthy ?f investigation by the Prices Investigaion Tribunal.” Mr E. Bowmar said that the peculiarity About the present position was that the retailers, when increasing their prices, had raised the replacement argument, but to-

day the traders were not saying anything about replacement. Mr Arnott said that, the proce® of trade would readjust prices. The remit was carried. MAIN ARTERIAL ROADS. I Invercargill.—“That in the opinion of this i conference the Government should take ! over the maintenance and up-keep of the [ main arterial roads of the dominion.” i Mr J. D. Trotter said that the Governi ment had already indicated that it was , prepared to undertake the main roads. The seconder, Mr Woodfield, said that ‘ the main roads were used by everyone, and the Government should take them over or j subsidise them. Mr E. Bowmar said th-’t they should turn down the proposal, as the Government would get the money from *the community and they would still have to pay for it. If the Government took over the roads | they would, no doubt, concentrate between the centres, and the backblocks would -suf- , ter. This opinion was expressed by other , delegates. Mr Trotter said that to-day they had modern methods of transit, and they should provide roads suitable. The remit was lost. OPERATIONS OF THE “TRUST.” The Poverty Bay Provincial District asked support for the following:—“That in the opinion of this meeting the Government should take immediate and effective stsps to absolutely stop the ‘Trust’ and big combines from directly or indirectly buying or controlling any freezing works in New Zealand or operating in any way with our pro- > duce and in particular to stop Armour & • Company. Vestey Bros., and the latter’s various organisations from opera?..ng in ; New Zealand in any manner howsoever in connection with our freezing industry.” I The chairman asked for a vote, and Mr Bowmar said that the position with regard “ to meat was unsatisfactory. The way the 1 Government had dilly-dallied with the quesI tion had not made it any better. He was I of the opinion that some New Zealand 1 buyers were striving to get the control into their own hands. The only way was to go the “whole-hog,” and handle. their produce I from beginning to end. Unless they owned * ships, and marketed their own produce. 1 they would simply play into another home combine.

Mr D. Marshall said that at present they did not have the ammunition to fight the trusts, and until they could deliver their produce direct to the consumer, they should be careful in dealing with trusts. They should wait until ail the machinery was ready, and then go into the fight. Mr Trotter said the rfcmit should be passed. It showed the power the trusts had when they could influence governments to fight their case. * Mr Bowmar said that the present methods of fighting the trusts were ineffective, and it was only throwing dust into their eyes to imagine they could do anything effective without shipping. No matter what they did at present, the trusts would get the meat in at the finish and laugh at them. Delegates were of the opinion that the only way was to have their own ships. The remit was withdrawn on account of insufficient evidence being before the Con--I'erence to enable it to vote intelligently. PREFERENCE TO UNIONISTS. Executive: “That we believe in payment of labour by results in order that individual effort may be encouraged, we therefore urge that the Arbitration Court or other industrial tribunals be empowered by legislation to bring this principle into effect.” Mr Roy, moved the remit, stating that the Arbitration Court had outlived its usefulness, and labour was not getting the best results from the Court. The time had arrived when the change should take place. He believed in payment of labour by results. Mr Bowmar, in support, read a statement to the effect that the New Zealand ports were the most costly to work, and that argument was used by shipping companies in keeping up the freights. Returns showed that it took almost 14 days longer to work a steamer in New Zealand to-day ‘‘than in pre war days. The remit was carried. REPRESENTATIVE ON BOARD OF TRADE. Executive: “That it is a very great disadvantage to farming interests that fanners have no one representing them on the Board of Trade, this Conference therefore requests that the New Zealand Farmers’ Union be empowered to nominate a representative.” —Carried without discussion. APPRENTICES. Executive: “That in order to train youths to be competent fanners a term of apprenticeship is necessary and should be initiated.”

Mr McKenzie, in moving the remit, said that in all trades an apprenticeship had to be served. If a youth came to a farm he was put to work, whereby t-he farmer would get the value of his wages. If lads were apprenticed on the farms, they would have a good class of farmers in a few years. A man who had served five years on a farm, and was a good all-round man, should be able to get wages equivalent to a tradesman. It would be beneficial for those who wished to- learn farming. Even if the wage were small at the commencement, the lads wow'd always be sure of their keep. In replying to a question he stated that a tradesman’s son had to be apprenticed. Mr Roy said that, the farmer could at the present time apprentice lads, and he had done so with success. The remit was lost. COUNTY GRANTS. Executive: “That the present system of Government grants to County Councils be abolished and a system adopted whereby counties shall receive a direct subsidy proportionate to the rates collected, such sum being on an ascending scale so that counties assessing the highest rate in the £ shall receive a larger proportionate grant than counties assessing a lower rate.” The remit was moved by Mr Bowmar, who said that when the Reform Party took office it had stated that it would abolish “bribery” grants. They would have a better control of the roads, if the principle embodied in the remit were given effect to. At present figures showed that grants in Auckland for roads were enormous. Mr S. Fowle said that the Government grants were unfair. Grants were forced upon the county councils, and they were forced to spend money when there was more need for it elsewhere. The remit was carried. FREEZING CHARGES. Invercargill; “That in the opinion of this Conferenc the present high rate of freezing charges is not justified, and in view of the fact that shipping companies have reduced freight rates freezing companies should also reduce, and in order to assist towards a substantial reduction that tire Producers’ Committee be asked to watch events and lend every possible assistance in regard to readjustment of the wages of freezing company employees.” The remit was moved by Mr Trotter, who said that throughout Southland there was great dissatisfaction with regard to freezing rates. Mr W. Couser seconded the remit pro forma, but said he would like a full enquiry into the charges and every phase of added expenditure considered. He would like a report on the matter. The remit was carried. IMMIGRATION. Invercargill: “That in as much as we are well informed that there is a considerable number of undesirables amongst immigrants now arriving and to arrive in the dominion; and that it is essential to our prosperity that outside political agitators be refused entrance to the dominion, this Conference requests the Government to take the necessary steps to refuse admission of such immigrants into the country.”— Carried. DRAINAGE. Executive: “Considering the great difficulty experienced in obtaining men with sufficient practical knowledge in the art of draining and ditching, that a recommendaiion be forwarded to the Government through the Agricultural Department asking assistance by way of importing the latest mechanical devices and giving de-

monstrations of their capabilities.”— i Carried. < GROUND PHOSPHATE. | i Executive: “That in our opinion it is time the farmers undertook a combined method of getting consignments from the 1 Government of Nauru Island phosphate.” ’ Mr Bowmar said that it was only by co- ; ’ operation that they could secure phosphate ■ at a reasonable figure. One of the points • they wanted considered was that the Gov- 1 ernment should provide a method whereby 1 farmers could get small quantities for 1 grinding. SOUTHLAND HYDRO-ELECTRIC SCHEME. Executive: “That a special committee be appointed to investigate and report on! ways and means whereby the surplus energy , available may be utilised from the South- < land hydro-electric scheme.” —Held over in 1 the meantime. ANNUAL DINNER. The annual dinner was held in the evening, and was a successful function. The Hon. J. A. Hanan and Messrs J. R. Hamilton and A. Haftiilton, M.’sP., were present, and gave interesting addresses on matters j ' of vital interest to farmers. ENTERTAINMENTS ALBION THEATRE. *‘A screen classic in every sense of the | word,” is how everyone classed the Gouve- 1 : neur Morris super-play “Trumpet Island,” which was screened last night to an enthusiastic and bumper house at the Albion. It is i an ill wind that gives the supreme dramatic 1 filip to this simple, yet powerful story. It j, is of a girl, forced into an unhappy marriage; of a man drunk with sudden millions. They should have mated, but barriers of money stood between them. The girl went for a honeymoon trip in the , clouds the man to a lonely < island. Disaster overtook the girl, but, instead of the death she craved, it gave her life and true happiness in the arms of the man of her choice on Trumpet Island. The picture is packed full of the breath of romance by master craftsmen, who have imparted big and subtle touches. One of the outstanding features of the production is the marvellous storm scene. Never on the screen has been depicted na- J ture in such dramatic strength. It must be seen to be fully appreciated. A star caste of artists enact the characters, including the beautiful artist Marguerite De La Motte. Supports of splendid entertainment arc also screened. Intending patrons are advised to come early to-night or to telephone the Albion for reserved seats. THE STORY OF THE ROSARY. The Albion management make the announcement of the securing of this great English masterpiece, which will be screened for three nights only commencing next Tuesday. Walter Howard’s great play, “The Story of the Rosary,” was one of the big successes of the age, and the screening of the play further enhances the beautiful story. The pearl rosary of the story has many happy associations, and always clinging about it are the words of the song which the Mother Superior sung to her own accompaniment. Seats may be reserved by telephoning the Albion. CIVIC PICTURES. Tom Mix, daredevil of the screen, will be seen in “The Feud” at the Civic Pictures to-night. This is a stirring photoplay packed with exciting incidents, romance and the story of a feud which existed between two Southern families. Here Tom I shows that, in addition to performing stunts and feats of daring, he possesses considerable histrionic ability. The opening episode is laid in the Bluegrass region back in the days of hoopskirts and romance. Tom Mix is seen as Jere Lynch, whose family is actively engaged in an ancient feud with the Summers family. The heritage of hate does not prevent Jere from loving pretty - Betty Summers, but it does lead to dramatic complications in which the feud breaks out with renewed intensity. The role of Jere Lynch calls for considerable ability as ian actor, and the work of Tom Mix, it is I predicted, will delight his many followers ' , and bring him new admirers. In addition Ito this fine picture a Metro production, I “Passion Fruit,” a pulsing drama of the ' tropics will be shown. The star is Dorall dina, who is known far and wide for her : daring interpretations of unfamiliar Hawai ian dances. This wonderful creature who was so idolised and popular on the stage with her hula dances, brings to the screen I both a superb gift for acting and a mar- ; velous dancing ability. Not. only that, but I she introduces into the picture many strange 1 dances of the South Sea Islands never i hitherto seen. One is a religious dance, i called “Dance of the White God,” a weird, I original movement used by the superstitious I natives as part of their ritual. How she | | does a wild hula dance to save the man | she loves is a moment in a story gripplingly i tense and absorbingly fascinating, where I iirute force and woman’s will clash for , supremacy. As an added attraction a I screaming Sunshine comedy “Farmyard Follies” will also be shown. As there is sure to be a huge crowd again to-night patrons who can do so are advised To attend the matinee this afternoon. Box plan for tonight is at the Bristol. THE ENGLISH PIERROTS. “The popular coterie of entertainers known as “The English Pierrots” appear to have an inexhaustible repertoire of music, song and humour,” says the Herald, Auckland, during the recent season of seven weeks played in j the northern city. This well known combina- i tion will appear in Invercargill, commencing ' m Monday evening for three nights, and will I present all new programmes which include I | excerpts from opera, latest London sketches, j new feature numbers, dances, solos, quartets ' I und novelties. The new programmes are | run on revue lines under the title of “Bits i l and Pieces.” It is the latest amusement | idea from England, and has become the rage |

in England. America and Australia. The company have secured Edmund Warrington, a London producer, to stage their new revues. This player will appear in many of his original sketches, including "A Dud Dream,” a military play that is still showing throughout England—and which was shown before the Prince of Wales in London, with Edmund Warrington in his original role. Many of the old favourites, Chas. E. Lawrence, David J. Lyle, Leslie Austin, Roy Cooke, Ena Gordon, Joy Rolls and Lillian Colenzo are still with the Pierrots, whilst the newcomers include Moya Crossley, Iza Crossley, and Harn’ Schofield. The Pierrots are this tour presenting an entirely new type of entertainment which has become extremely popular. The box plans are at The Bristol The Pierrots are sure to receive a hearty welcome from local theatre-goers as report! •to hand from Dunedin, during the season just concluded at His Majesty’s Theatre in that city are remarkably flattering to the company and programmes presented. New programmes will be presented each evening*

POPULAR PICTURE PALACE. A hunt for a wealthy wife by a poor artist, and his eubsequent falling in love with the heiress selected, furnishes the keynote of the Pathe feature “The Love Cheat” at the Popular Picture Palace. The stellar roles are undertaken with conspicuous success by June Caprice as the heiress and Creighton Hale as the young struggling artist. These two popular favourites will enhance their already rosy reputations by their charming work in this picture, which fairly radiates youthful charm and breeziness. Creighton Hale makes a thoroughly likable hero, and June Caprice is beautiful and talented enough to justify any praise for her work. A comedy by the Pathe company “Money to Burn,” featuring Snub Pollard and his juvenile dark assistant George Washington Tarfoot Lee, causes much merriment. This programme will be shown at the matinee to-day and to-night at 7.15.