PLIGHT OF THE WORKING FARMER.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVI, Issue 19155, 11 April 1932, Page 4

PLIGHT OF THE WORKING FARMER.

To the Editor of “ Th* Tlraaru Herald." Sir—Being one who has for years taken a live interest in the politics of the country, I was naturally attracted by the radical utterances of the Independent candidate for Temuka at the last election. At first, I thought his ideas were somewhat extravagant, and likely to. affect detrimentally, men such as I with a small income from money invested as a result of thrift. Mr Burnett’s utterances strengthened my opinion somewhat, as I know they did many others similarly circumstanced. However to-day_l have realised the wisdom of Mr Langford’s policy, and give him credit for the vision I do not possess, and wish that I had been swayed by the remarks his opponent characterised as piffle and josh. My position is that of a working man, who has been careful and saved a few hundred pounds, thereby hoping to avoid the old age pension. But what do I find to-day? I am compelled to live on those cherished savings, as I cannot get a job on account of the wholesale employment of the 4A and No. 5 men cn the farms of the district. I am also debarred from these schemes, and further my small income seems certain to be cut as a result of interest reduction. At least the newspapers state that Cabinet has practically decided on this course. I am anxiously waiting the division of the House on the question and Mr Burnett’s attitude towards it. I am now convinced that until interest reduction and wholesale readjustment of land values take place, there is little hope for such men as myself getting employment on the farms. Mr Coates promised to give consideration to the thrifty, but like many more of his promises have proved of little value.—l am, etc., THRIFTY