FARMERS FOR CAMP

Waikato Independent, Volume XL, Issue 3764, 30 September 1940, Page 5

FARMERS FOR CAMP

BUSY TIME OF THE YEAR

EFFECT ON PRODUCTION

A reply to the Cambridge Increased Production Campaign Committee's protest at the system of military training for farm workers was received from the Army Secretary at a meeting held on Friday. The committee had expressed disappointment at the,removal of farm workers for training during the flush periods. "Before a final decision was arrived at in regard to the dates of the calling up of territorials to s go into camp, a conference was held at which members of the farming community were represented, and the position was discussed from all angles," stated the Army Secretary. "It was realised that a. sacrifice must be made by all sections of the community in the war effort, but in this matter the effect on primary industries was very fully considered. Each Case to be Considered

"It was realised that in some cases there would be difficulty in releasing men to go into camp, but it was decided that each and every case, where postponement of service was recommended, should be deliberated upon by the local Advisory Committees of the Man-Power Organisation. "Man-Power District Advisdry

Committees have been established ' with a view to maintaining a proper balance between military requirements and the interests of the Empire in industries generally, and? in all cases where employees de- ; sire a postponement of the service of a territorial, they are required to apply to the secretary of the local Advisory Man-Power Committee; care of the Area Office. If they do this, every consideration will be given to the application." Members considered that the position was not altogether definite. It was decided to write to the Area Officer, asking for the personnel of the Man-Power Committee and the method of approach to it. Soldiers for Harvesting A suggestion was made by Mr D. W. Ariell that men from training camps should assist with harvesting •' in the summer months, as had been done in England. He considered that there would be little difficulty in arranging for truck-loads of soldiers to visit farms in the district. It was considered that the harvesting problem would be greatly eased, and the secretary was instructed to communicate with the Defence Department on the matter.