MOTOR MECHANICS

Press, Volume LXIX, Issue 20919, 28 July 1933, Page 8

MOTOR MECHANICS

CONDITIONS OF EXAMINATION. PROTEST TO MINISTER. CTiIESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.) WELLINGTON, July 27. Strong exception to the conditions under which examinations for motor mechanics are conducted by the New Zealand Motor Trade Association was expressed by a deputation representing the New Zealand Motor Trade Union, which waited on the Minister for Labour, the Hon. Adam Hamilton. The deputation stated that men who had passed the examination received a promise that they would be paid an extra twopence an hour, but that promise had not been observed. The Minister agreed to enquire into the matter. It was stated that there was an examination fee of £1 Is, and candidates, if successful, had to pay another guinea for a certificate. It was estimated that the association had received something like £928 from the employees. Mr Hamilton asked why it was that the men were still sitting for the examination, and the answer was made that they were coerced. "We have several cases where coercion can be definitely proved," said Mr A. Slack, "although the employers will deny it." Mr Hamilton said that he was wondering how he could interfere. It was a sort of voluntary arrangement in the trade itself. However, if the law was being broken in any way, then it would be a matter for the Government. He could look into that. The deputation had stated that the employers had declined to enter into a trade award, and some discussion took place regarding their right to take such an attitude. Mr Hamilton remarked that it would be a matter for Mr R. McKeen, M.P., who had introduced the deputation, and himself to discuss in another place. Mr McKeen: The" employers are making a farce of the legislation. They bring forward proposals and say: "Take them or leave thern." There is no conciliation in that! DISPUTE NOT SETTLED. (PIVEBB ASSOCIATION TELEQEAM.) WELLINGTON, July 27. The motor mechanics' dispute was the subject of proceedings at a Conciliation Council to-day. No agreement was reached, and the conditions which have been in force for the last 12 months will remain the same.