N.Z. FARMERS’ UNION.

Waikato Times, Volume 105, Issue 17750, 29 June 1929, Page 10

N.Z. FARMERS’ UNION.

CAMBRIDGE BRANCH. BUSINESS AT MONTHLY MEETING. The monthly meeting of the Cambridge branch of the N.Z. Farmers’ Union was held on Friday. The president, Mr 11. A. Watkins, occupied the chair, and there was a small attendance of members.

Votes of Sympathy. Before commencing the business the president referred to the death of Mr Robert Fisher, who was one of the early pioneers and had paved the way for future generations. A vote of sympathy with the relatives of the late Mr Fisher was carried, those present standing in silence. A similar resolution was passed expressing sympathy with the branch’s vice-president, Mr J. Wallace, in the loss of his brother. Annual Dinner. The president reported that the committee had had matters well in hand for the annual dinner, but when it was found that so many would be unable to attend through sickness and for other reasons it was decided to posVpone the gathering indefinitely.—The action of the committee was approved. Farm Schools. Mr H. A. Watkins said that the lectures given by officers of the Agricultural Department in connection with the farm school, which was held during the month, were well attended and much valuable information had been available to farmers.—lt was resolved to send a letter of appreciation to the Agricultural Department. Southern Farmers. It was decided to place on record the branch's appreciation of all those who assisted in entertaining the Southern farmers on their visit to Cambridge. * Lecture. In reply to the branch’s request, Dr. Annett, of Matangi, wrote stating that he could not see his way clear to give a lecture just at present, as he was leaving for Australia. He would be pleased to consider the matter on his return.

Women’s Division.

The secretary of the Women’s Division of the Union wrote stating that the division would like to hold its meetings on the same day as this branch, provided the division’s time of meeting (1 p.m.) would not bo altered.— It was decided to advise the division that the branch had no objection provide the division made its own arrangements with regard to chairs, etc.

Tariff Board. Mr R. Feisst referred to the endeavour on the part of a certain section of the community to establish a tariff board. Mr Feisst contended that the board would be against the interests of the primary producer. The peoplo behind the movement, he said, were out for iLs ftsta-biishment to procure more

protective tariffs. Mr Feisst said that under the present system no change in tariffs could be made without first coming before the Government of the country, but the establishment of such a board would enable a Government to shelve its responsibility in the matter. Mr Feisst added that he felt sure that the establishment of such a board would mean greater protective tariffsAs the union had pledged itself against high protective tariffs some steps should be taken in protest. It was resolved that the branch should make a strong protest against the setting up of a tariff board, and considered that all matters dealing with alterations to the tariff be dealt with by Parliament. The resolution is to be sent to the Prime Minister, to the Auckland Provincial Union and to all branches, with a request for their support. Finance. The secretary reported a credit balance at the bank of £52 10s. Accounts amounting to £G 11s were passed for payment.