MORTGAGES ON FARMS

Waipa Post, Volume 48, Issue 3468, 19 May 1934, Page 7

MORTGAGES ON FARMS

SUBJECT FOR COMMISSION

ASSURANCE BY MR FORBES

(By Telegraph. Press Association.) ELTHAM, Friday.

The definite undertaking that tbe Dariy Commission will consider the matter of farm mortgages was given by the Prime Minister to a deputation of 400 farmers to-day. The deputation put forward the view that the order of reference might not cover tire question of mortgages. Farmers, particularly in Taranaki, were reaching the end of their resources and felt that tire question of mortgages should be tackled. They did not care what steps were taken, so long as they were effective. They suggested that the mortgage adjustment commission’s powers be widened, giving scope for consideration of the adjustment of principal. Many farmers who might have to leave their farms were ,highly efficient. They wanted security of tenure. Mr Forbes said the Government fully realised the importance of the question, which was covered by the order of reference of the Dairy Commission. Farmers would have ample opportunity for placing evidence before the commission, which would make some general recommendation. Each case would be treated on its merits.

• Mr Forbes, in the course of an address, replied to farmers’ criticism of the Government. No Government had done more for the farmers. It had taken drastic steps to protect them in regard to mortgages, but farmers should remember that there were mortgages on property other than farms.