NEW ZEALAND'S CONTRIBUTION.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LX, Issue 16892, 6 February 1917, Page 6

NEW ZEALAND'S CONTRIBUTION.

MEN OR PRODUCE?

WHICH IS PRUb'ERABLE?

New Zealand's contribution in men at tke_ expense of the Dominion's productivity was discussed by tiie Chamber of Commerce last evening. Mr Allan Robinson said he believed developments would shortly arise, due to the- action or inaction of the Military Service Boards, and it was suggested that advisory committees would he'appointed in the various cistricts to act in, an advisory capacity to the Military Service Boards. It was desirable- that better evidence should be given, when applications'were made for exemptions betore the Boards, with the result that they would ba able to arrive at a satisfactory decision. It was understood that the Minister only wanted, a lead to give effect to such'a proposal. The question was, who should take the lead—Borough Councils, the County Councils, agricultural associations, or chambers of commerce? Mr A. 11. Harris considered the time had come when the Government should meet the position. The authorities were not concerned about the financial state of a conscript or the' taking over of his liabilities. Assistance could be given possibly by an .extension of the Moratorium Act. Suppose a man had leased some land, and his right of purchase expired this year, which he would forfeit if conscripted?* The Military Service Boards were not concerned about it. ]fa man was medically fit he had to go. In many eases farmers were being called upon to make a double sacrifice, without any provision being made for them. It was desirable that tire chamber shoiild express an opinion. In many cases protection was wanted', as a man who went, away to fight did not want to lose all his life's earnings. The present trouble appeared to be due to the weakness of members of the Cabinet.

Mr Pownall said the great trouble appeared to be the taking away of labour essential for the productivity, of the Dominion. There were cases of farms being shut up, and stock taken oft the laud. .. NeAV Zealand was of far more use to the Empire in producing than sending a few men to the front! If the sending of men meant the Cutting down of the productiveness of the .Dominion it. wou.d be- a short-sighted policy. Many, of the farms were being robbed right and left, and the land' was benig rendered idle. The President, said tho various patriotic associations were taking action and awaiting the decision of the Government. . '■ Mr Mackay said he was afraid that anything short of commandeering the ,man-power of the country would be a mere palliation. Mr Allan Robinson considered that the whole business of the country should be commandeered. A. Member: What would become of the farmers if the Germans won? Another Member: Can w.e win on an empty stomach P

The Chamber also decided to support the Napier chamber in a request io the authorities .'not to hold Territorial encampments this year, owing to the demand, for farm labour.