FEMALE LABOUR

Press, Volume LXXIX, Issue 23944, 11 May 1943, Page 4

FEMALE LABOUR

NEEDS OF ESSENTIAL INDUSTRIES MORE WOMEN TO BE TRANSFERRED (PA) ' AUCKLAND, May 10. A statement that there would have to be a further diversion of female labour from non-essential industries to those which were important to the war effort, was made to-day by the Controller of Manpower (Mr H. L. Bockett). A number of industries had heavy war commitments to meet, he said, find staffs would have to be found to help them meet their obligations. “Although the District Manpower Officer has directed many women to work, approximately 700 girls are still needed in essential industries in and round Auckland,’’ said Mr Bockett. “There are a large number of women and girls in the registered classes who have remained in industries which have not been declared essential. A number of them will be available for work which will be a direct contribution to the war effort, “The scheme for the release of men from the Army to take up essential work is proceeding satisfactorily in the Auckland district," said Mr Bockett. “The Manpower Department has been able to fill many important positions as a result of the War Cabinet’s decision, and the effect of the transfers should be felt in industry as the scheme continues.” Mr Bockett said that up to last Tuesday the number released from the Army to industry in Auckland was 1291. Of these 709 were in the 18-19 age group. The remainder had gone into' a variety of industries, including the engineering and building trades, and shipbuilding and heavy manufacturing industries engaged on essential production. Farming had also absorbed a number of men. Most of the soldiers released had gone into essential industries.

The importance of the scheme to the war effort was emphasised by Mr Bockett, who said that releases were still taking place. Some important industries had had their contracts increased, and without additional labour they would be severely handicapped. Now that it was being made available they should be able to meet the heavy demands imposed on them.