CLAIM FOR WAGES.
A "LOOSE" ARRANGEMENT. COURT CALLED ON TO DECIDE. "The parties chose to enter into an exceedingly loose arrangement with a result that frequently happens in such cases—when the time for settlement arrives they arc unable to agree and the Court is called upon to settle their difficulties." This statement was made by the Chief Justice, Sir Michael Myere, when giving judgment in an action concluded in the Supreme Court this morning. The action was brought by James Hyctt (Mr Hall Skclton), sawmiller, of Otahuhu, who claimed from James Ross (Mr. Dyson), farmer, of Maraetai, £287, the balance of wages allegedly due for his services when working for the defendant from January, 1932, to January, 1935. Plaintiff contended that j he had been engaged at a rate of 2/ an hour.
The defendant, who counter-claimed for the rent of a cottage and provisions provided, stated in his evidence yesterday afternoon that he had engaged plaintiff at a wage of £1 and anything in addition which defendant thought reasonable. The defendant said the plaintiff's words were, "I will leave it entirely to you. I have known you long enough to know that you will treat me as well as you can."
His Honor said that he was satisfied that the plaintiff was not entitled to succeed upon the basis of a claim for remuneration at 2/ an hour, for no such contract had been proved. On the other hand he was satisfied that it had not been proved that plaintiff agreed to accept £1 a week, plus euch further sum as defendant might choose to give. All that had been proved was that there was a contract for employment and v it rested with the Court to say what was a fair remuneration to be paid by the defendant for plaintiff's services. His Honor allowed plaintiff £3 10/ a week for 155 weeks, and sundries, making a total of £534 14/10. On the defendant's counter-claim he allowed for cash paid £264 16/7, rent of a cottage at 10/ a week, fuel and provisions totalling £422 7/10. This left a balance in the plaintiff's favour of £112 12/10. ( Judgment was entered for the latter amount, with costs.
CLAIM FOR WAGES.
Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 275, 20 November 1935, Page 8
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