FARMERS’ UNION

Te Awamutu Courier, Volume 52, Issue 3750, 1 May 1936, Page 6

FARMERS’ UNION

TE AWAMUTU BRANCH. AND THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS. It is perhaps a far cry from the Te Awamutu branch ot the Farmers Union to the I .eague of Nations, but an indication that the gap could be bridged was in evidence at the last meeting of the branch, when Mr D. H, Cavers gave notice to move at next meeting: “That this meeting views with grave concern the present state ot world affairs, and gives wholehearted support to the, British Govoi’iiment’s attitude in regard 1 to the Italian-Abyssinian dispute, even to tl.e extent ot military sanctions, should other League members co-oper-ate. If, however, the League falls to curb the aggressor, we feel it would be in the best Interests of our country to withdraw from the League, and support a system of defensive security within the British Commonwealth of Nations.”

In tabling the motion, Mr Cavers briefly explained his reason for so doing, stating his opinion that France has contributed more than-any other nation towards the breakdown of the league. The inaction affects New Zealand, and New Zealand farmers, so the Farmers’ Union was entitled to express an opinion. Te Awamutu having the largest membership of any branch in the Dominion, it was appropriate that it should “start the ball rolling.” Continuing, Mr Cavers said returned soldiers realise the grim horrors of war, and though some of them may be over military age in the event of another world war conflagration occurring, their sons would be forced into the conflict as active participants. Many of them, consequently, would be killed or maimed. It had been argued that we should stand out of European disputes, but that would be like taking policemen off the streets and leaving the highways free for everyone to use or abuse. The present world situation is very serious, as even the most casual reader must realise. The mover indicated that the subject was one worthy of debate at a special meeting of the branch. It had many aspects, and should not be just politely received or briefly considered.

The chairman complimented Mr Cavers for bringing his motion forward, for it should evoke a lot of interest.

Other members approved, and it was left to the discretion of the president when to bring the motion before members, one commenting that all local and public bodies able to express a considered and responsible opinion should do so.