ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS

Southland Times, Issue 24686, 6 March 1942, Page 4

ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS

men in military CAMPS LEAVE FOR AGRICULTURAL WORK (P.A.) WELLINGTON, March 5. Arrangements made for the granting of leave from military camps for men experienced in agricultural work to enable them to assist with the planting of wheat and other essential cereal and root crops was announced tonight by the Minister of National Service, the Hon. R. Semple. “The Minister of Agriculture has made an appeal for increased production of wheat and other essential crops,” said Mr Semple, “and he states that in order that this country may be selfsupporting it is necessary for at least 300,000 acres of wheat to be grown this year. One of the difficulties to be faced is the provision of adequate labour. A scheme has therefore been adopted whereby experienced men will be granted leave from territorial service on the recommendation of man-power committees. The period will be for not more than two months, although there is authority to extend this period in special circumstances. “Fanners who have been asked by district councils of primary production to plant wheat and other essential crops, and who are in need of labour should make application in the first instance to the local placement officer. Calls are being made in camps for volunteers from those with the necessary experience and placement officers will make application to the local man-power committee for military leave for approved men. I wish to join with the Minister of Agriculture in his appeal for increased production this season.”