FARMERS’ UNION IS IN STRONG POSITION, SAYS SECRETARY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18788, 18 June 1929, Page 7

FARMERS’ UNION IS IN STRONG POSITION, SAYS SECRETARY.

MEMBERSHIP SHOWS GREAT INCREASE. Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, June 17. Interviewed to-day regarding the report that a new’ farmers’ organisation was being formed the Dominion Secretary of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union, Mr J. Pow, stated that he had never heard of any intention amongst farmers to form another union. lie stated that the New Zealand Farmers’ . Union was never stronger financially or numerically than at present. During the past five years the membership of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union had been increased six-fold, mainly owing to the activities of seven organisers operating in different parts of the Dominion. Moreover, at the beginning of April of this year, the federation of Dairy Farmers' Union with the New Zealand Farmers’ Union was effected. Mr Pow also stated that in order that matters relating to primary producers could be brought forcibly before Parliament, a Parliamentary Committee, consisting of Messrs W. J. Poison (chairman), Dickie, Healey, Lee, Martin, Bitchener, Macpherson and Captain Rushworth had been appointed at the last meeting of the Dominion Executive. Mr Pow said that it would be highly probable that a “Within the Empire” conference of farmers would be held to discuss farming matters of imperial interest when the British farmers visited New Zealand at the end of February, 1930. The British party would consist of representataives from Britain, Canada and South Africa. Various farming organisations in Australia had already been consulted in the matter, so that there was a big chance of this important meeting eventuating.