OVERTIME AND UNEMPLOYMENT.

Auckland Star, Volume LVII, Issue 152, 29 June 1926, Page 16

OVERTIME AND UNEMPLOYMENT.

(To the Editor.) •' Sir, —While the ranks of the unemployed unfortunately include all classes of workers skilled and unskilled, perhaps the--most depressing aspect of the problem is-the sorry fact that the Auckland Engineering Union 'has about 160 of its members out of work. Providing work for "these men may seem very difficult, but" when a local engineering firm nas been on overtime for the last few weeks, one wonders why so large a, number are walking around anxiously seeking a job, while some of their fellow craftsmen are "putting in" twelve hours a day. It may be said that in consequence of the smallness of the shop itis impossible to augment the present staff. Surely the success of a shift system with regard to dock-side workshops in other countries will lead us to a different opinion. Everyone will also admit that from the viewpoint of physical and mechanical efficiency the recognised tade union eight-hour day is sufficient for any man. Therefore, work, however casual, that any employer could give by abolishing overtime would be greatly appreciated by all. —I am, etc., LIVE AND LET LIVE.