The Government and Agriculture
Major Kindersley replies to Local Farmers
On Friday last, Major Guy M. Kindersley replied to the questions submitted at a meeting of local farmers, held on March 11th, a report of which appeared in these columns.
The meeting on Friday was held at the Benson Hall and the Chairman (Mr Claud Fraser) said they were pleased Major Kindersley was able to come and speak to them on the important questions raised.
Major Kindersley, who was warmly received, said:
[Transcriber note - There is a very extensive write up of the Major's speech, which is so long the font size had to be reduced by the paper printer. It doesn't name anyone, so I have decided to not transcribe it. You can read the entire thing in the original image.]
Major Kindersley also referred to his own position in regard to the Government Electricity Bill, to which he, together with other members, had submitted a reasoned amendment. He declared as "monstrous" the insinuation in a newspaper that he had done so because he was interested in electricity concerns. He did not possess a single share, and his motives were always in the public interest.
Mr H. May moved a vote of thanks to Major Kindersley for his address. He (Mr May) was one of those who formulated one of the question, and he thought Major Kindersley had answered it well.
He hoped, however, that something would be done to bring Agriculture on the footing it should be. (Applause).
Mr Macarthur in seconding, said he also was one who raised one or more of the questions put to Major Kindersley. He did not agree entirely with all Major Kindersley had said. With reference to the Widows and Orphans Pensions scheme. What he (Mr Macarthur) objected to was that the charge was borne by the employer of labour. A professional or a retired man paid practically nothing towards the scheme. There were other points he would like to raise but it would be hopeless to enter into any arguments that night. He was very pleased to second Mr May's proposition. (Applause).
Mr W. Manning, who said he represented the farm worker, supported the vote. He said he thought it was not fair for a farm worker to receive 31/- a week when other men were receiving three or four pounds. (Applause).
The Conservative Concert Party gave an excellent programme of songs &c., before and after the speeches, those contributing towards the programme being Messrs. F. Pearce, B. Richmond, A. Upchurch, and W. Allen.