322 
AGRICULTURAL RELIEF 
But the point I am making—let us get the picture before us: 
We have had the tariff and, whether we like it or do not like it, we 
have been talking about free trade; we have been talking about high 
tariff and low tariff. But there has been some bunk and some gold 
bricks handed out and the farmer has gotten more than his share. 
Let us face the issue fairly. In a century and a quarter we have 
never been on an absolutely free trade basis. We have approached 
it. The protective poliey is now the policy of the country. It pos- 
sibly will remain so; I don’t know; I am not discussing that. 1 do 
not want to discuss it, because it has no relation to this question. 
If we are going to have the tariff, bring the farmer under it: and 
we believe this is the first and best method. 
Tf the drawback provision of the tariff is constitutional, if we can 
legislatively deflect $375,000,000 over a 19-year period, from the 
Treasury for the benefit of the Cuban planters—the consumer gets 
some benefit; we do not deny that—we certainly could deflect some 
money to benefit the American farmer. 
We believe there is no question about the constitutionality; and it 
is fair. It will raise some wholesale prices. I see by Washington 
figures that oat of an 8-cent loaf of bread the farmer gets 1.15 cents, 
so it is plain retail prices need not be raised. 
We insist the 21-cent raise in the price of wheat need not affect 
the retail price of bread and need not affect the retail price of many 
commodities. There are some conumnodities it might possibly cause 
some retail advance. Cooperative marketing, economy and efficiency 
might eliminate some of it. 
It simply says to the American consumer that farm products will 
be treated the same as other products, and that the advantages that 
accrue through the high wage, through restrictions, and through 
tariff regulation will be more evenly distributed. : 
The thing I want you to remember is that the debenture plan will 
stand up under each test. It can be passed we believe. It will raise 
farm prices. It has the advantages of constitutionality, as the draw- 
back provisions and other provisions have been tested in the courts. 
It is fair to the consumer and the farmer. 
Mr. Aswerr. In Germany the debenture certificate is good for only 
90 days. How long do you propose to have it good for ¢ 
Mr. TaBer. One year; on account of seasonable exportations in 
such matters as cotton. 
Mr. XercaaMm. In giving away to other witnesses. if desired, you 
will come back for further questions? 
Mr, Taper. If desired, we will be recalled for testimonv and cross- 
questioning at any time. 
In conclusion we want to make it clear to the committee that we 
appeal to this committee and to the farm organizations of America. 
We are willing to surrender some preconceived notions and our per- 
sonal ideas if it will assist the American farmer. Let us forget 
Sienlinral politics and think in terms of agricultural statesmanship. 
© grange wants to demonstrate its interest and desire to cooperate. 
brine RT 1aber, will you or one of the other witnesses 
cute will ba Suk att we James of this export debenture certifi- 
o 
oi Oe en hae ta he origina producer. whether he 1s a