PRIMARY PRODUCTION COUNCIL AND FARMERS’ UNION

Timaru Herald, Volume CLIII, Issue 22477, 12 January 1943, Page 2

PRIMARY PRODUCTION COUNCIL AND FARMERS’ UNION

Sir,—Many years ago I joined the Farmers’ Union, it being understood at that time that the Union was nonpolitical and pledged to fight for farmers’ interests irrespective of which political party was in power. It is interesting to note that in South Canterbury many executive officers of the Union now occupy responsible positions both on the Primary Production Council and on the local Primary Production Committees. A recent Press Association message makes it clear that, at least, members of the Auckland Provincial Executive of the Farmers' Union realise that the functions of the two organisations are not identical. The Farmers’ Union is pledged to support farmers’ interests and Mr Mulholland in “Straight Furrow” makes it perfectly clear that the duty of Primary Production Councils is to put into effect the behests of the Government. The time is not far distant when gentlemen occupying executive positions on both bodies will have to try reconcile their duties to both bodies. Perhaps Mr L. V. Talbot, president of the Farmers’ Union, could help to elucidate a somewhat involved position.—! am, etc., AGRICOLA.