THE SMALL FARM SCHEME.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 118, 21 May 1932, Page 1 (Supplement)

THE SMALL FARM SCHEME.

Tho small farm scheme has been neatly described as “a system of mutually advantageous barter of goods, labour and services.” By setting aside ten acres of his land for the occupation and use of a suitable man and his family, the farmer would bo as-

sured of a constant and convenient labour supply, and he would no longer be forced to accept from other areas in times of extra pressure, a labour supply of an unknown quality. In addition to this, tho farmer should view this scheme as a means not only of afford ing him the opportunity to increase the productivity of his land with conse quent benefits to himself, but as mak ing a sound contribution in regard to the solution of the unemployment prob lem. From tho point of view of th? man who is out of work, the plan pro posed opens up an avenue of useful ser vice and profitable employment. It would bo his natural aim, on his own little section, to make the very most of it for his own good, and his prosperity would be in direct proportion to the amount of his labour. He could build up his small holding by giving labour to tho farmer in exchange for stock or implements or anything else of which ho might stand in need. In this way both parties stand to benefit and by the application of such a .system of mutual service not only would the drain on tho farmer due to unemploy ment contributions be ultimately lessened, but tho auxiliary settler would be given a real, if even a small stake in tho country and the incentive to progress that accompanies the self respect which honest work engenders It is stated that the Public Works De partment already have tho hutments ready for erection in the areas that may be given or let by the farmers, and the authorities lay stress upon the urgency of the need for haste in this matter. We feel, however, that the farmers, who generally recognise a sound proposition when they see one wi” not require much urging once the scheme is understood, and it is confi.l ently to bo expected that it will meet with tho success which it so clearly merits.—Hawke’s Bay Herah