WAR AND WAGES.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVI, Issue 64, 16 March 1915, Page 2

WAR AND WAGES.

APPLICATION BT UNIONISTS. FOR NEW AWARDS. (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, this day. Further argument on an application by trades unions to recommence the hearing of industrial disputes, was heard by' the Arbitration Court to-day. Mr. Carey, the unions' representative, said in no country where the principle of the Arbitration Court was in force had it been laid down that the functions oi the Court should bo suspended in war time. Mr. Justice Stringer pointed out that the Court's ruling was only for the time being, and that application for a review could be made at any time. Mr. Carey replied that the interpretation placed upon the Judgment by the employers had tended to block arbitration and conciliation, and to discourage trades unionists. He saw no ground for suspension of the Court's functions. He referred to the prosperity of the Dominion and to the absence of unemployment. Savings Bank deposits had also increased largely in January. Mr. Justice Stringer suggested that this might indicate closing other avenues of investing. Mr. Carey: On a matter like thig Tm content to take the opinion of Mr. Massey, who says Savings Bank deposits indicate increased prosperity. Mr. Justice Stringer: We can't take Mr. Massey's opinion as gospel, you know. Mr. Carey: When they back up the claims of unions probably they are nearer right than they ever were before. Argument is proceeding.