THE OUTLOOK

Waikato Times, Volume 94, Issue 14773, 12 October 1921, Page 4

THE OUTLOOK

The deputation representative of tfie New Zealand Farmers' Union which waited upon Mr Massey at Wellington yesterday succeeded in eliciting some import-ant information as to the intentions of the Government. The members painted a somewhat gloomy picture of the outlook of the Dominion, for which the Premier mildly rebuked them, and besought them to do nothing to impair the country's credit, which would but add to their sorrows. New Zealand has enjoyed a period of record prosperity, and we have come to regard it as a normal condition, but throughout a note of warning has been persistently soundedi that the years of plenty would be followed by a season of stringency, and the people have been advised to make provision therefor. It is evident, however, from remarks made by members of the deputation that the producers have not been any more provident than other sections of the community. They gambled upon the chance of the continuation of high, prices, and lived up to the limit of their incomes. Now that prices have fallen and we are called upon to pay for past extravagances, a feeling of dismay has succeeded the sense of optimism which formerly obtained, and some are prone to be panicky. Mr Massey's reply should have a reassuring effect and induce those who are at present inclined to be doleful to brace themselves for what lies ahead. Nothing is to be gained by decrying our own wares, and if the people will rise to the occasion there is no reason why the country should not pull through and the present clouds be quickly dispersed. The deputation urged the recognition of equality of sacrifice, and protested against the producers bearing the full burden. In the very nature of things all sections must suffer in common, for each is part of the whole, and what affects the backbone is felt by the complete body. The wave of prosperity did not, however, immediately benefit the whole community; it took time to permeate all ranks, and it naturally follows that the effect* of the depression will be felt similarly. The labourer, no more than the producer, can hope to escape, though possibly he does not relish the prospect of forced economy and thrift any more than do the members of yesterday's deputation to the Premier. Mr Massey intimated that the Government was fully seized as to the necessity for drastic retrenchment, and slated that the pruning hook has already been applied to the extent of £1,500,000. The report of the commission recently appointed to make recommendations has shown how a further £2,000,000 can be saved without the impairment of public services, but these recommendations will requiro legislation to give them effect. Mr Massey gave no indication as to the nature of these proposals, bud announced that his own salary lias been reduced by £2OO per annum, and, therefore, it is permissible to think that other p'iblio men will be invited to participate in the joys of sacrifice- The Premier concluded by assuring the deputation that he had a joyful surprise in store for them during the next three months. His remarks should certainly have had the effect of a tonic, and possibly there are some members of that deputation who are satisfied that even the lowering clouds which they were disposed to regard with so much dread are tingeA with silver.