WOOLLEN MILLS’ OUTPUT

Press, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23094, 9 August 1940, Page 8

WOOLLEN MILLS’ OUTPUT

INCREASE OF THIRTY PER CENT. MINISTER SURVEYS POSITION iFfitSS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAJkI.. WELLINGTON, August 8. “After the call made by the Government for the co-operation of citizens in the furtherance of the war effort, and particularly with reference to the need for additional workers and increased effort in the woollen mills and clothing factories, a survey has been made of the present position in the woollen mills, which discloses a very satisfactory contribution to the war effort of the Dominion,” says’a statement issued by the Minister io r Labour (the Hon. P. C. Webb) tonight. “Although there is still a need for further effort in this industry, the present position reflects an earnest endeavour on the part of the workers and employers alike to give of their best. As a result, output has increased by approximately 30 per cent, ana further improvements are being effected each day. At present military requirements are being met almost fully: but there are arrears in regard to civil supplies which must be made up. Furthermore, it is necessary _ to build up certain reserves of material. In practically all mills shift work is now carried on. and untrained workers are being trained to fill skilled positions. In one or two mills it is not practicable to work shift work; but overtime is being worked, and hours staggered enable the plant to be used as fully as possible.”