4 JUNE 1937, Page 19

SIR,—I recently had the privilege of speaking about the women

owner-farmers' point of view with regard to the discrimination in income limits laid down by the proposed Pensions Bill for meri and women.

Briefly, the points are as follows :

r. That there are a number of experienced women wile have adopted' agriculture and ' its allied branches and are working their own farms and market gardens for a living. The income of these women in many cases is above £250 and may not exceed £400 per annum.

2. These women are contributing to the food supply of the country.

3. In many cases they are employing both male and female labour.

4. They pay income and other taxes.

5. Their income depends on their own activities and health.

6. Under present agricultural conditions it is unlikely that any adequate provision can be made by them for the day when they are, through reasons of health or age, unable to continue their work.

7. In the event of any National emergency the knowledge and experience of these women agriculturists would be invaluable.—Yours faithfully,

A. VANDERPANT, Secretary, The Women's Farm and Garden Association, Courtauld House, Byng Place, Torrington Square, W.C.i