SHORTER WORKING HOURS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 150, 27 June 1934, Page 6

SHORTER WORKING HOURS.

Another instance of the -willingness of the United States to co-operate in the nonpolitical activities of the League is afforded by its acceptance of an invitation to join the International Labour organisation. As this involves no obligations under the Covenant, there will be no danger of the European entanglements which have kept America from full League recognition. Her aid "will be particularly valuable in assisting the Labour organisation to come to some decision on the question of a 44-hour week, consideration of which has been postponed till next year. The Labour office at Geneva stated recently that the 40-hour week in the United States was proving a success, and reduced working hours are taking firm root in Europe. Some firms have cut down their hours to about 34 a week, others to 44. Some firms have cut wages and hours alike, while others have reduced hours and raised wages. In some cases it has been found that business improves with shorter hours. An English firm also reports that the workers' health is much better. America can help the Labour office in this and other questions affecting the workers, and her acceptance of membership should greatly strengthen this and other branches of the League's" activities.